What’s better than a pool party?
A pool party with burgers, of course!
If you’ve been thinking about getting an outdoor pool and kitchen… Then you’re in the right place!
But while it’s fun to fantasize about the amazing parties… Great food… And relaxing summer days at the pool…
You probably have all kinds of questions!
Don’t worry… We’ll answer your questions… And give you a few ideas on how you can create the ultimate backyard oasis!
Quick Links:
Benefits of an Outdoor Pool and Kitchen
First things first… What makes this such a great combo?
We asked our pool-builder friends at River Pools to help answer the question!
River Pool’s marketing manager, Cristian Shirilla, has been in the pool industry for more than 13 years… So he had all kinds of great insights!
According to Shirilla… When people purchase a pool, it’s because they’re trying to solve a problem.
“The core problem that they’re trying to solve is that they’re trying to bring friends and family together… Whether it’s you and your significant other, your entire extended family, or the whole neighborhood!”
And that’s exactly what makes an outdoor pool and kitchen the perfect pair.
They’re both a great way to foster community…
And bring your family and friends together over fun and food!
Together, they help you take advantage of your backyard space… And transform it into an outdoor living area that everyone will enjoy.
You’ll have all the benefits of both features… And they work so well together!
“People love to spend time outside… And people love to come together around food,” Shirilla said.
Before you get too excited… There are a few things to think about.
Want to bring your idea to life?
Outdoor Pool and Kitchen Considerations
Before you “dive in”… There are a few things to consider.
First of all… How should you plan out the space?
Planning Space for Pool and Outdoor Kitchen Design
The first thing you’ll want to think about is where you’re going to put your pool and outdoor kitchen!
“The space to work with is tied to what the local building laws are. You’ve got to understand the codes for your area,” Shirilla advises.
These codes will tell you how close your pool can be to the edge of your property… And how close to your house.
“Once you determine those codes… You can determine the amount of space you have to work with.”
Your pool can be nearly any size or shape you want, depending on your local codes… So build one that suits your needs!
For example, a plunge pool can be as small as about 6 x 10 feet (60 square feet)… And a lap pool will go up to about 40 x 16 feet (640 square feet)… But they can be much bigger!
You’ll also want to figure out where to put your poolside kitchen!
You can have any outdoor kitchen dimensions you want… But your average small outdoor kitchen will take up a space of 10 x 10 feet (100 square feet)… And a larger one will take up 20 x 20 feet (400 square feet).
You’ll want a minimum of 3 feet for any walkway… So you’ll need to keep at least that much room between them.
The rest is up to you!
How Much Will Your Pool and Outdoor Kitchen Cost?
When you’re trying to budget for your project… You need to know how much it will cost!
We’ll start with swimming pool costs… Then move on to your outdoor kitchen costs.
Swimming Pool Cost
Fiberglass
Fiberglass in-ground pools are made of a shell that is fabricated off-site… Brought in one piece… And dropped in a dug-out hole for your pool.
A fiberglass pool is usually between $35,000 and $65,000 initially.
Fortunately… The cost of maintenance is almost nonexistent.
Vinyl Liner
This in-ground pool consists of a metal or plastic wall to cover the dug-out hole… That is then covered by vinyl.
A vinyl liner pool is less expensive than fiberglass or concrete initially.
The average initial cost is between $25,000 and $50,000.
You’ll have to replace the pool liner every 5 to 9 years. This will cost you about $4,500 each time.
Concrete
Concrete in-ground pools are constructed from steel rebar and shotcrete (or gunite).
A concrete pool has the most variety for initial costs… It can be anywhere from $35,000 to $100,000 initially.
You’ll need to acid wash the pool shell every 3 to 5 years for $900 per wash… And clean your pool about once a year for $500 a session.
Then, you’ll want to re-plaster the pool interior for $10,000 every 10 to 15 years.
Altogether… The maintenance will cost you about $16,000 every ten years.
Shipping Container Pools
These above-ground pools are just like they sound… They’re made out of shipping containers!
The insides are sprayed with automotive-grade paint and polyurethane coating for protection.
These will cost between $16,500 and $50,000 initially.
They are low-maintenance… But the exact costs for maintenance over time aren’t yet specified since this is a newer trend.
Now, how much will your outdoor kitchen cost?
Outdoor Kitchen Cost
Just like with a swimming pool… Your outdoor kitchen costs will depend on your design!
However… They won’t require big maintenance costs down the road, so long as you keep them clean and make sure it comes with a good warranty!
The sweeping average for an outdoor kitchen is about $12,000 to $13,000… But these prices can be much lower… Or way higher, depending on what you want!
If you build your own outdoor kitchen… The average cost can range from $1,200 to $2,000 per linear foot.
If you want a modular or prefabricated outdoor kitchen… These range from $4,000 to $10,000 for most BBQ islands.
And finally, if you’d prefer to shop at a big box store like Lowe’s… These will often range from about $1,500 to $5,000.
Our recommendation is to consider the quality as well as the price… So don’t buy an outdoor kitchen that’s low quality to save money, or you’ll have to replace it after a few years!
Regardless… This should give you an idea of how much you’ll be spending on your pool and outdoor kitchen!
How Long Should Your Outdoor Pool and Kitchen Last?
How long will your outdoor kitchen last? And what about your pool? Great questions.
You’re in luck… Both your outdoor kitchen and pool should last for decades!
That being said… A shipping container pool is only expected to last up to about 25 years… So they have a more definite maximum lifespan compared to your in-ground options.
“How much maintenance you do will determine how many years it will last,” Shirilla said. This is also true of your outdoor kitchen!
So what can you do to prolong the life of your outdoor kitchen and pool?
Prolonging Your Pool and Outdoor Kitchen Lifespans
The best way to prolong your pool and kitchen’s lifespan is to cover them!
“In terms of pools, automatic covers are probably the best thing to get in terms of safety and maintenance for your pool,” Shirilla said.
“You have the ability to close your pool, just like that! They keep little kids, animals, and dirt and debris out of your pool.”
This is also true for outdoor kitchens…
Covering your grill island is one of the first steps to winterizing your outdoor kitchen… And protecting it any time you aren’t actively using it!
Purchasing a cover is a low-investment way to keep your island protected.
In addition, an outdoor kitchen roof is a great way to protect it from wind, rain, and sun exposure.
Of course… Getting a high-quality outdoor kitchen with a good warranty will also help ensure this.
Now that you’re an expert on pools and outdoor kitchens…
You’ll need some outdoor kitchen and pool ideas!
Outdoor Kitchen and Swimming Pool Design Ideas
You might have a good idea of the kind of pool you’d like… And maybe what you want your outdoor kitchen to look like…
But it’s a totally different story to see them together!
Here are some different pool and outdoor kitchen ideas to help you get started on your own design!
U-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen with Pool on Deck
There’s a lot to unpack in this picture River Pools shared…
For starters… The U-shaped outdoor kitchen is a great distance from the pool. Not only can you cook at your built-in grill away from the splash zone… But you’re still able to keep an eye on any kids swimming.
The bar stools give you the perfect spot to sit and eat food… Or to watch the fun in the pool!
On top of that… The entire area is on an outdoor kitchen deck… Which is just the perfect place for lounge chairs.
Outdoor Pool Kitchen Ideas with Slide
If you’ve got kids (or even if you don’t )… This slide is amazing!
The raised deck gives your grill island the perfect outdoor kitchen roof… Protecting it from rain, snow, and sun…
And there’s a great sitting area on top!
The connected hot tub spa and the firepit are also a great touch.
While this example isn’t a particularly small area… Building up rather than out is a great way to conserve space!
Simple Outdoor Pool and Kitchen Design
This picture is a great example of a simple set-up with a lot of seating.
Their outdoor kitchen bar can seat a few people… They have a table… And multiple chairs!
We love how straightforward and beautiful it is!
Patio Pool with Outdoor Kitchen
This outdoor kitchen patio has it all… A beautiful, covered area… An outdoor kitchen right by the house… A gorgeous pool… And a hot tub!
Their pool’s shallow area even has a hole for an umbrella… So it’s the perfect spot to read a book while someone cooks in the outdoor kitchen… And the rest of your family enjoys the pool.
Pool and Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas with Sunroof
This Florida room with pool and outdoor kitchen gets all the beauty of the sun… But without any insects or debris from plants!
On top of that, their backyard pool has a lovely shallow area where guests can sit!
Backyard Designs with Pool and Outdoor Kitchen Pizza Oven
This outdoor kitchen and pool combination is the dream.
The outdoor pizza oven will make delicious food…
The pool has a gorgeous rock ledge and hot tub… And a matching stone outdoor kitchen!
And the rich, red outdoor kitchen pergola brings in the colors of the fence… Making this area look warm and refreshing.
Outdoor Kitchen Next to Pool with Fencing
If you want your outdoor kitchen by the pool… A fence is a great way to segment the two features off from one another!
This stone outdoor grill island looks great on its own!
This has a very practical purpose. The fence is a great safety feature for small children… And it will help prevent debris from flying in on a windy day!
Backyard Pool and Outdoor Kitchen Ideas with Unique Shapes
Since both the outdoor kitchen and pool are on the patio… They look like one harmonious outdoor living space… And they work well together!
Instead of your usual linear grill island… This homeowner got a nice L-shaped outdoor kitchen and added a bar.
The outdoor kitchen sink is a great choice for any party…
And their pool is a beautiful, curvy shape that is inviting and fun!
Small Pool and Outdoor Kitchen
Everything about this backyard kitchen is peaceful… And the outdoor kitchen smoker is a great addition!
This outdoor kitchen near the pool is a great use of space.
While the covering makes it seem like a large area… This is actually a great setup for a small backyard with an outdoor kitchen and pool!
Because of the canal… These homeowners had to make sure that their new pool construction didn’t go too far out.
This was the perfect design for functionality… And to have their dining area and pool right up against the house!
The coverings almost make this seem like an indoor kitchen area… Rather than a backyard kitchen!
Backyard Pool and Outdoor Kitchen Designs
This backyard kitchen and pool combination feels like something straight out of a resort.
The curved pool… Grill island with an outdoor kitchen refrigerator… Umbrella… And lounge chairs add to the simple yet high-end feel that we love about this spot!
Outdoor Kitchen Pool Ideas for Large Backyards
This backyard design has just about everything you could ever want… And all in one big, open design.
Their U-shaped outdoor kitchen sports all kinds of great outdoor kitchen appliances… And the seating area surrounds an outdoor fire pit.
It just goes to show that your house plans with outdoor kitchen and pool ideas don’t have to stop there… You can make anything you want!
Create the best poolside outdoor kitchen
Separated Pool Outdoor Kitchen Ideas
We love this drone shot from River Pools… What a cool look at this outdoor kitchen and pool combo!
We love that the outdoor grill station and outdoor cooking area are on a wood deck.
Then… The pool has its own area with a hot tub and fire pit nearby!
Outdoor Kitchen and Pool House Plans
If you want a shaded summer kitchen… There’s no better spot than in a pool house.
Your outdoor kitchen cabinets will stay cool… And you can add appliances that will make your pool even more enjoyable, like an ice maker for drinks!
You can also use your outdoor kitchen storage for pool items like sunscreen and towels.
Modern Pool and Kitchen Plans
Everything about this outdoor pool kitchen design is chic and modern.
The gray cabinetry, concrete countertops, and patio all work together with the bright, stainless steel Coyote appliances…
And the small grass dividers make this modern summer kitchen look even more connected to the pool!
Outdoor Kitchen Near Pool with Gazebo
This beautiful, wooden gazebo gives the look of a pool house… And the string lights are a great way to brighten up the outdoor kitchen pool design at night.
The L-shape outside kitchen allows the dining area to fit in just right… So you can enjoy food under cover until you’re ready to jump back into the pool!
Outdoor Pool and Kitchen with Lounge Area
There’s something especially eye-catching about this gorgeous area.
The outdoor kitchen bar is the perfect spot for drinks by the pool…
The elongated pergolas give a gorgeous spot for lounging…
And they’ve used their decor and white outdoor kitchen countertops to make the entire area look harmonious and coordinated!
Pool with Water Features and Shaded Outdoor Kitchen
Under the porch is a great spot for a summer kitchen!
No one wants to eat in the hot sun… So this shaded porch is the perfect way to cook and socialize from the cool shade…
And then swim in the refreshing pool!
During the winter… The hot tub will be a great place to sit, and the patio kitchen will be protected from the snow!
Backyard Kitchen and Pool Lounge Area
This picture from River Pools has just about everything you could want…
From a massive outdoor kitchen and a Big Green Egg… To copious amounts of bar seating!
And when you’re ready for the pool… You can take a dip, or go sunning on the chairs!
The Simple Way to Get the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen
We’ve gone over a lot of information about what to look out for when you’re trying to get the perfect outdoor pool and kitchen… So we get it if you’re a bit overwhelmed!
This is a huge project… And the last thing you need is more work.
So we’d like to help you get started!
First of all… How do you get a pool?
How to Get a Swimming Pool
Step one of getting a brand new swimming pool… Do your research!
We’ve gone over some of the most important parts, like types and costs… But don’t stop there!
River Pools offers one of the best and most comprehensive Learning Centers just on pools… So you can read guides and watch videos to learn all about it.
You’ll find guides on pool designs, installation, cost, and so much more.
They even have quizzes to help you decide which type of pool would be best for you… Just to make the process simple.
You’ll be an expert in no time… So you’ll know exactly what kind of pool you’re looking for.
In addition to a pool… You’ll also want to start looking into an outdoor kitchen!
How to Get an Outdoor Kitchen
You’ve already got a lot on your plate… So let us make the process simple!
This should be a fun project… Not a stressful one!
To get an outdoor kitchen, you used to have to schedule all kinds of meetings with outdoor kitchen contractors… Buy your own appliances… Deal with weeks of backyard construction…
You’d be spending more than 20 hours just getting everything ready to start the construction!
That’s incredibly frustrating… And who has the time for that?
That’s why we ensure that this process will be the simplest home improvement project you’ve ever done!
The RTA Outdoor Kitchen Process
You’ll start by designing your own outdoor kitchen in our easy-to-use and free Design Tool… No strings attached.
You’ll get a beautiful, 3D rendering… And it’ll be sent off to our team of Design Experts!
Someone on our team will give you expert, one-on-one advice and create a blueprint for you…
And all you have to do is tell them what you’d like for your backyard! They can help make your dreams a reality.
When your design is finalized… It’ll be sent off to our manufacturing factory in Indiana, where it will be made to order… Just how you want.
After that… The panels, countertops, and appliances arrive right at your front door.
No more weeks of construction. It can be assembled in just a few hours for a lifetime of enjoyment.
Your project should be fun, and you’ll already have a lot going on… So why not keep this part simple?
If you have any questions about anything related to outdoor kitchens… You can visit our Learning Hub! We’d be happy to assist you.
Need Help With Your Plans?
Q&A
An outdoor kitchen is, on average, about $12,000. An outdoor kitchen you might find at a box store will run cheaper… While some custom ones will be more expensive. The average cost of an outdoor kitchen can range from $1,200 to $2,000 per linear foot when built from scratch.
An outdoor pool can cost anywhere from about $25,000 to $100,000 initially, just depending on what type and size you get. The pool maintenance can cost several thousand more every ten years or so.
You can absolutely build an outdoor kitchen on a deck! You’ll want to see how much weight it is able to hold… And also consider how you’ll connect your utilities, such as gas, water, and electricity. You’ll also want to think about combustibility. You want to make sure you aren’t putting a hot grill on a flammable surface such as wood.
On average, an outdoor kitchen costs about $12,000. You can find much cheaper ones at big box stores… While custom outdoor kitchens will be much pricier. If you’re going all out… Your outdoor kitchen area could cost upwards of $30,000.
There are a few different ways to build an outdoor kitchen. If you want to go full DIY… Many homeowners will use a wood frame for their outdoor kitchen. This is not recommended. Alternatively, you could purchase a ready-to-finish (RTF) outdoor kitchen… Or a ready-to-assemble (RTA) outdoor kitchen kit. While these are still DIY options, they will require less work and will typically be safer options.
How large you make your swimming pool is up to you!
In the United States… A standard competition-size pool is 75 feet long. A lap pool is 50 feet long on average. A smaller in-ground pool might only be 20 feet long… While a longer one might be about 40 feet.
There are all kinds of great benefits to having an outdoor pool!
First of all, they promote a healthier lifestyle! You’ll get more exercise and sunlight. They’re especially a great way to exercise when you have an injury. And the extra exercise will also help you sleep better at night! On top of that… They add value to your home.
The temperature of your pool will typically stay between between 78 and 82 degrees… Perfect to cool off during the summer! In very hot areas… It may rise to the low 90’s!
An outdoor kitchen will cost, on average, about $12,000. You can find less expensive options at big box stores (although it isn’t recommended), or more expensive custom outdoor kitchens. An outdoor pool can cost anywhere from about $25,000 to $100,000 initially, just depending on what type and size you get. The pool maintenance can cost several thousand more every ten years or so.
