Cost to Build an Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchens are a great way to turn your garden into a practical cooking, dining and entertaining space. They can be as simple as a built-in barbecue with a small worktop or as high-end as a fully fitted outdoor kitchen with storage, appliances, a sink and utility connections.

The cost to build an outdoor kitchen will depend on the size, materials, appliances and the amount of labour needed. Larger designs may require builders, electricians, plumbers or Gas Safe engineers to make sure everything is installed safely.

In this guide, we’ll break down outdoor kitchen costs, including supply prices, labour fees, timescales and the main factors that can affect your total budget.

How Much Does it Cost to Build an Outdoor Kitchen?

If you are wondering how much an outdoor kitchen costs, the answer may differ greatly based on the design and how complex the project is. In general, the cost of an outdoor kitchen in the UK ranges from around £500 for a very basic setup to over £15,000 for a fully equipped outdoor kitchen.

Factors that affect the price can include:

• Size of the outdoor kitchen
• Number of appliances installed
• Materials used for worktops and cabinets
• Utility connections required
• Ground preparation and foundations
• Labour costs

More basic outdoor kitchens with a barbecue and a small worktop are usually the most budget-friendly, whereas fully equipped outdoor kitchens with multiple appliances and a custom build will cost more.

Outdoor Kitchen Prices

Below is a table showing the typical outdoor kitchen prices based on size and complexity of the job:

The examples listed above will help you to better estimate what an outdoor kitchen costs based on your needs and available space.

Supply Costs

There are several materials and appliances required to build and install an outdoor kitchen. The cost of the materials and appliances can take up a large portion of the overall cost of outdoor kitchen installations.

Examples include:

• Built-in barbecue or grill: £150-£2000
• Outdoor kitchen cabinets: £200-£1500
• Worktops: £100-£1000+
• Storage units and shelving: £100-£800
• Outdoor-rated appliances: £200-£2000+
• Sinks and taps: £50-£300
• Flooring materials such as paving or decking: £20-£100 per square metre

The quality of appliances and materials will significantly affect the overall price. High-end appliances and durable materials designed for outdoor use will increase the upfront costs but offer better longevity.

Outdoor Kitchen Worktop Options

Worktops are an important part of an outdoor kitchen and are used for storage, preparing food, and serving up meals. The outdoor kitchen worktops need to be durable enough to withstand all of the typical British weather conditions, such as rain, frost, and bright sun.

Choosing the right material will affect not only the appearance of your outdoor kitchen but also how long it lasts, its maintenance requirements, and overall cost. There are several different types of worktop materials to choose from for your outdoor kitchen. Below is a list of the best examples.

Return visit – Should a second visit be required, for example, to fit some parts that have been ordered, you may be charged for the additional time and labour.

Granite Worktops

Cost: £300-£1000+

Granite is one of the most popular choices for outdoor kitchen worktops due to its strength and natural resistance to heat and moisture. This material provides a high-end appearance and can last for many years with very little maintenance, so this is perfect for those who are looking for a long-term investment.

Pros

• ✔ Durable
• ✔ Weather-resistant
• ✔ Premium finish

Cons

• ✖ Expensive

Concrete Worktops

Cost: £200 - £600

Concrete worktops provide a modern, industrial look and can be custom-made to fit any outdoor kitchen design. They are very durable, but they might require sealing to help prevent water absorption and cracking, especially in colder areas.

Pros

• ✔ Strong
• ✔ Customisable

Cons

• ✖ May crack over time

Stainless Steel Worktops

Cost: £150 - £500

Stainless steel worktops are frequently used in professional kitchen settings and are a brilliant choice for outdoor use due to their resistance against rust and stains. They are hygienic and easy to maintain; however, they may show fingerprints or scratches over time.

Pros

• ✔ Easy to clean
• ✔ Modern appearance

Cons

• ✖ Can scratch fairly easily

Porcelain or Natural Stone Worktops

Cost: £250 - £800

Porcelain and natural stone worktops offer excellent hardiness and a wide range of design options. They are resistant to heat, stains, and weather damage, so they’re a great sensible choice for use in outdoor kitchens, and they also look great. However, they do tend to be a bit more expensive than other materials.

Outdoor worktops must always be weather-resistant and durable, which can influence the cost and longevity of the kitchen.

Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets

Your outdoor kitchen cabinets must be designed specifically for use outdoors. This means they need to be resistant to moisture, changes in temperature, and general wear from exposure to the elements. Because of this, they are usually more durable and more expensive than standard indoor kitchen units.

There are several different types of outdoor kitchen cabinets to choose from for your outdoor kitchen. Below is a list of the best examples.

Stainless Steel Cabinets

Cost: £250-£900+ per unit

Stainless steel cabinets are one of the most popular choices for outdoor kitchens as they are very durable and resistant to rust, heat, and moisture. They are very commonly used within professional kitchens, and they offer a lovely, sleek, modern appearance. Higher-end stainless steel cabinets with added features can exceed £800 - £900 per unit, so they are more on the expensive side.

Aluminium Cabinets

Cost: 300 - £800+ per unit

Aluminium cabinets are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, so they are a great choice for an outdoor kitchen. They are often powder-coated for an extra bit of protection. They are slightly less heavy-duty than stainless steel. However, they are easier to move and install, so they are a good option for residential outdoor kitchens.

Weatherproof Timber Cabinets

Cost: £120 - £400+ per unit

Timber cabinets provide a natural and traditional look, so they are a great option for a garden with a more rustic or classic design. However, these types of cabinets require regular treatments or resealing to protect them against moisture and weather damage. These cabinets are cheaper upfront than the previous options, but the costs may add up over time with the upkeep to avoid rotting or warping.

Composite Outdoor Kitchen Units

Cost: £150 - £500+ per unit

Composite cabinets are made from a combination of different materials, such as resin, plastic, or engineered wood, and are made to withstand outdoor conditions with minimal maintenance. These cabinets are resistant to moisture, UV damage, and pests, so they are a very practical and long-lasting option – perfect for a residential outdoor kitchen.

Utility Installation Costs

Many people will want to add utilities to their outdoor kitchens to make them more practical. The utilities can add to the costs quite significantly, depending on which types of utilities you need.

Some examples include:

Gas Connections for Grills or Cooktops: £100 - £500+

You may need a gas connection if you are installing a built-in barbecue, grill, or cooktop that runs on mains gas. If so, this work will need to be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer to make sure it is all installed safely and also complies with regulations. The cost for this will depend on how far the connection needs to run from your home.

Electrical Wiring for Appliances and Lighting: £150 - £800+

Electrical installations may be needed for appliances such as refrigerators, lighting and plug sockets. An electrician will install weatherproof outdoor sockets and make sure that everything is safely connected to your home's electrical system. More detailed setups with multiple different appliances or lighting features will increase the overall costs for the work.

Water Supply for Sinks: £100 - £400+

If your outdoor kitchen includes a sink, you will need to have a water supply connected from your home. This will usually involve running pipework to the outdoor area and then installing taps or fixtures. The cost for this type of work will depend on the distance from the main water supply and how easy it is to access.

Drainage Systems: £100 - £500+

It is important that your outdoor sinks have the proper drainage needed to prevent water build-up and to help keep everything hygienic. This may include connecting to existing drainage systems or installing new waste pipes. More complicated drainage solutions will increase both the labour and the material costs.

Additional Costs

There are some additional features that you can choose that may increase the total cost of building an outdoor kitchen.

Below is a list of additional extras that could add to the costs of the job:

• Outdoor lighting: this can help to improve visibility and also means that you can use your outdoor kitchen at night. The cost for outdoor lighting will usually be around £50 - £300, depending on the types of lights you choose and the number of lights you get installed
• Seating and dining areas: These can make the space more social and provide a place for you and guests to eat the scrumptious food that you’ve cooked up in the outdoor kitchen. You can expect to pay around £200 - £2000+ for seating and dining areas, depending on the types you choose.
• Outdoor heating: This is a good idea if you are planning on using your outdoor kitchen at night or during the colder months. Outdoor heating will usually cost you around £100 - £500.
• Pizza ovens or smokers: This provides you with additional cooking methods, so you can make even more yummy dishes in your outdoor kitchen. The price for this will be around £200 - £1500, depending on the type.
• Refrigerators or drink coolers: These items are very convenient for food and drink storage, making them within easy reach of the outdoor kitchen preparation space. You can expect to pay around £150 - £1000 for a refrigerator and around £10 - £100 for a drinks cooler, depending on the types and brands that you choose.
• Landscaping around the kitchen: Getting some landscaping done around the kitchen may be worthwhile. This will help to improve the overall garden design. The cost for this type of work will usually be around £200 - £2000+, depending on the level of work that needs to be done.

Outdoor Kitchen Shelter

Many outdoor kitchens include a bit of a structure or a type of roofing above the cooking area to provide weather protection. This is particularly helpful in the UK to help protect the area from rain and snow. Below is a list of examples of the types of kitchen shelters that you could choose from, along with the costs of each type.

Examples include:

• Pergolas: £500 - £2000
• Gazebos: £300 - £1500
• Retractable covers: £200 - £1000
• Permanent roof structures: £2000+

These additions can make the kitchen more usable year-round, but will increase the overall budget.

Labour Costs and Timescales

When it comes to building an outdoor kitchen, you may need to hire a few different types of tradespeople in order to get all of the work done. The tradespeople that you need for the job will depend on the type of outdoor kitchen you are getting installed and the features that you are looking for.

Tradespeople involved may include:

• Builders or landscapers - £150 - £300 per day
• Carpenters - £150 - £350 per day
• Electricians - £40 - £70 per hour
• Gas engineers - £50 - £80 per hour
• Plumbers - £50 - £70 per hour

It’s important to note that the labour costs can vary depending on where abouts you are located. Those in and around the London area can expect to pay more for the work than those based in the North or other areas of the UK.

In addition to the cost of labour, you may also be wondering how long it typically takes to install an outdoor kitchen. The answer is that it will differ considerably depending on the size of the kitchen, the type of features you’re getting and the ease of access.

Typical installation times may include:

• Small outdoor kitchens: 2 to 3 days
• Medium outdoor kitchens: 3 to 5 days
• Large custom outdoor kitchens: up to a week or longer

It’s important to keep in mind that complex installations involving utilities will generally take longer to complete.

Cost Factors for Building an Outdoor Kitchen

There are several things that could affect the overall cost of building an outdoor kitchen. These include:

• Size and layout of the kitchen
• Type and number of appliances
• Worktop and cabinet materials
• Utility connections required
• Ground preparation
• Weatherproofing requirements
• Local labour rates

Custom-built kitchens with high-end materials will typically have a higher price.

Building Regulations for Outdoor Kitchens

Building an outdoor kitchen is a rather large job, so you may be wondering whether you need to think about planning permission or whether any building regulations need to be adhered to with this type of work.

Outdoor kitchens generally do not require planning permission if they are considered part of garden landscaping.

However, certain installations must comply with regulations:

• Electrical installations must comply with Part P of the building regulations
• Gas appliances must be installed by a Gas Safe-registered engineer
• Permanent roof structures or large buildings may require planning permission

Safety regulations must always be followed when installing appliances outdoors. If you are unsure at all about your build, you can always contact your local authority for some advice. They will be able to let you know what to do to ensure your outdoor kitchen work complies with the rules.

Types of Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens come in a wide range of different styles and sizes. This means that homeowners can easily choose a design that suits their budget, the available space, and how they plan to use the area. From simple setups to fully equipped outdoor cooking spaces, each kind provides different benefits and limitations.

Basic BBQ Kitchen (£500 - £1500)

A basic BBQ kitchen is the simplest and most budget-friendly option. It usually consists of a built-in or freestanding barbecue with a small worktop for food preparation. This type of setup is ideal for homeowners who want a functional outdoor cooking space without a large investment.

Pros

• ✔ Cheap and affordable for most budgets
• ✔ Quick and easy to install
• ✔ Often suitable for DIY
• ✔ Requires minimal space, so ideal for smaller gardens

Cons

• ✖ Limited features
• ✖ Little to no storage or additional appliances
• ✖ It may not add much value to your home compared to larger setups

Modular Outdoor Kitchen (£1500 - £5000)

Modular outdoor kitchens are made up of pre-built units that can be arranged in different layouts to suit your space. These units typically include cabinets, worktops, and space for appliances, offering more flexibility than basic setups.

Pros

• ✔ Flexible design that can be adapted to different gardens
• ✔ Easier and quicker to install than custom-built kitchens
• ✔ Often includes storage space for appliances

Cons

• ✖ Limited customisation compared to fully bespoke designs
• ✖ Quality can vary depending on the manufacturer
• ✖ May not perfectly fit in usual layouts or more complex garden spaces

Custom Built Outdoor Kitchen (£5000 - £15,000+)

A custom-built outdoor kitchen is designed and constructed specifically for your garden using materials such as brick, stone, or concrete. These kitchens are customised to your exact requirements, allowing you to choose the layout, materials, and features.

Pros

• ✔ Fully customised to suit your space and needs
• ✔ Top-quality materials can improve the appearance and the durability
• ✔ Can include a wide range of different features and appliances

Cons

• ✖ Expensive compared to other options
• ✖ Longer installation times
• ✖ Requires skilled tradespeople for proper installation

Fully Equipped Outdoor Kitchen (£800 - £20,000+)

Fully equipped outdoor kitchens are the most advanced option with the most features included. These installations commonly include multiple different types of appliances such as grills, pizza ovens, refrigerators, sinks, and extensive worktop space. These types are designed for frequent use and entertaining.

Pros

• ✔ Maximum level of functionality, including multiple cooking options
• ✔ Can include lots of storage space
• ✔ Ideal for entertaining guests and outdoor dining
• ✔ Can significantly increase the value and usability of your garden

Cons

• ✖ It can be very expensive, especially when using premium appliances and materials
• ✖ Requires more space and careful planning
• ✖ Installation is more complex
• ✖ You may need to hire multiple tradespeople

Alternative Outdoor Cooking Options

If a full outdoor kitchen is outside of your budget or not suitable for your garden space, there are several alternative outdoor cooking options available. These alternatives can still provide a great outdoor cooking experience at a lower cost and with less installation work. They are also ideal for homeowners who want flexibility or are not ready to commit to a permanent structure. Take a look at the examples below for a bit of inspiration:

PortableBarbecues: (£50 - £300)

Portable barbecues are one of the most common and most affordable outdoor cooking solutions. They are easy to move around the garden and can be stored away when not in use, so they are perfect for compact areas or for when you just want to occasionally cook outside.

Some of the options include charcoal, gas, and electric models, and each of these different types has different running costs and convenience levels. Although a portable barbecue may not be as permanent as a built-in kitchen, they are a cheap and sensible choice for more casual cooking sessions.

Outdoor Pizza Ovens: (£100 - £1000)

Outdoor pizza ovens have become increasingly popular and can be a great focal point in a back garden. These are designed to reach very high temperatures very quickly so you can cook pizzas, bread, and even some roasted dishes. Some models are portable, and others are more permanent.

Although they offer a unique cooking experience, they are usually used alongside other bits of equipment rather than as a complete kitchen solution, as you are limited in what you can cook with them.

Fire Pits with Cooking Grates: (£50 - £500)

Fire pits that are fitted with cooking grates can provide both heat and a simple cooking method. These are perfect for informal gatherings with friends and can be used to cook basic food types such as meats, vegetables, and marshmallows. Fire pits are relatively inexpensive and can improve the atmosphere of a garden, but they offer limited control over cooking temperatures compared to barbecues or grills.

Small Garden Cooking Stations: (£200 - £1000)

Small garden cooking stations usually include a fixed grill, some type of preparation space, and a small bit of storage.

These units can be freestanding or partially built-in and deliver a more organised cooking area without the cost of a full outdoor kitchen. They are a good compromise for people who want a semi-permanent setup but on a smaller budget.

Hiring Contractors Checklist for Outdoor Kitchen Installation

When you are looking to hire tradespeople to carry out the work of building an outdoor kitchen, there are several things that you should keep in mind. Below is a checklist that will help you find dependable contractors for the job:

• Check qualifications and insurance
• Ask for references or reviews
• Get multiple quotes
• Confirm experience with building outdoor kitchens
• Ensure they follow safety regulations
• Check experience with similar jobs
• Get a written quote
• Ask about warranties

Removing or Replacing an Outdoor Kitchen

Over time, you may need to remove or replace your outdoor kitchen due to wear and tear, a dated design, or changes in how you want to use the space. Your outdoor kitchen will be exposed to the elements all year round, and this can lead to the materials deteriorating, damage to appliances and just general ageing of the structure.

In some cases, replacing your outdoor kitchen with a more modern design can improve its function as well as the overall appearance of your garden.

Removal costs may depend on:

• Size of the kitchen structure – Larger kitchens with more components will take much longer to dismantle and remove, so this will increase the labour costs.
• Materials used – Heavier materials such as brick, stone, or concrete are more difficult to remove than lightweight materials and may require specialist tools or additional labour.
• Utility disconnection requirements – If your outdoor kitchen includes gas, water, or electrical connections, these will all need to be safely disconnected by qualified professionals, which can increase the costs.
• Waste removal – There could be a lot of waste, including old units, old appliances, and construction materials, and these will need to be removed and disposed of properly. This might include hiring a skip or waste collection services.

The typical costs to remove an outdoor kitchen will usually be around £200 - £1000+. The price will vary depending on the complexity of the job.

If you are planning on replacing your outdoor kitchen, you might be able to use some of the old parts, such as foundations, utility connections, paving, and other things, which could, in fact, reduce the overall cost of the new installation. However, older systems may not meet current safety standards, so it’s often the best option to upgrade your utilities.

Replacing your old outdoor kitchen can improve its use and create better outdoor entertaining spaces. This is especially true if you upgrade to a more modern layout with better appliances and more weatherproof materials. A new outdoor kitchen can also increase the value of your property by creating a more attractive and functional outdoor living space.

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