You know an outdoor kitchen is in your future, and you have an ideal time frame that you’d like the project to be completed in. That’s great, but how long does it take to plan an outdoor kitchen? And most importantly…
“When should I start planning my outdoor kitchen project?”
Expected timelines for an outdoor kitchen can be a mixed bag, and it’s tough to say exactly when you should get started. The general rule of thumb is, the earlier the better… but how early is early? As an outdoor kitchen manufacturer that has helped thousands of homeowners meet specific timelines… we have a solid grasp of how long the process actually takes.
In this article, you will learn the best time of year to start planning an outdoor kitchen project, the things you’ll need to have in place before you start planning, and how to get assistance with the planning process.
What is the Best Time of Year to Start Planning an Outdoor Kitchen Project?
The best time of year to start your outdoor kitchen project depends on when you’re hoping the project will be completed. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend starting project planning at least 6 months before you want your outdoor kitchen installed. So if you want your project to be completed in June, get started with the process in January.
As we mentioned in the introduction, planning timelines can be a mixed bag. Below are some factors that can extend your timeline. If you run into these issues, it could take longer than 6 months to plan your outdoor kitchen project:
- Logistics & Timing: Depending on the time of year and whether or not you work with a contractor, you’ll have to contend with lead times. If you order an outdoor kitchen from a manufacturer during peak season (May-October), it’ll take longer for your outdoor kitchen to be produced than in the off-season. Same goes for contractors, who may have 1-2+ month lead times depending on their project load.
- Outlining Design & Specifications: If you don’t already have your final design layout dialed in, the design process can take longer than you’d think! If you go through multiple revisions and iterations, the design and blueprinting process could take a few weeks in total to complete.
- Sourcing Materials: If you work with a company or contractor that requires you to source your own appliances and countertops, this could be quite the undertaking. You’ll have to research appliance brands, countertop fabricators, and get these factors coordinated with the broader outdoor kitchen project.
- Finding the Right Person or Company: If you haven’t nailed down on an outdoor kitchen provider just yet, this can also take some time. You’ll be surveying multiple options, getting quotes, asking questions… all of which will take some time and energy to complete.
Want One-on-One Help with Outdoor Kitchen Planning?
What Should I Have in Place Before Planning my Outdoor Kitchen?
If you’re about to start seriously planning your outdoor kitchen project, there are a few things you’ll ideally have completed already. This includes identifying placement, functionality, appliance selection, utilities, and budget.
- Identifying Placement & Measurements: Where in your backyard are you hoping to install your outdoor kitchen? And how much space do you have to work with? At the very least, identify where you want to build your outdoor kitchen and how much space you have to dedicate to a design.
- Functionality & Foot Traffic: How do you plan to use your outdoor kitchen? What is your reason for wanting to build one? Understanding the why behind your outdoor kitchen project will make sure that functionality stays at the forefront, and you end up with an island you’ll get a lot of use out of. Also be sure to consider foot traffic and how guests will flow in and out of your outdoor kitchen space.
- Appliance Selection: What appliances do you want in your outdoor kitchen? And what brand do you want to work with? You don’t need to be 100% settled on appliances right away, but it’s good to think about what your must-haves might be.
- Utilities: What utilities will you need for your outdoor kitchen? Do you have a plan for getting them installed? Consider whether you need water, electrical, and/or gas lines, and how those utilities will get installed. It’s best to have a plan for this ahead of time, so the lines can be installed and stubbed up where your future outdoor kitchen will go.
- Budget: What is your budget? Ultimately, an outdoor kitchen project can’t go forward if you don’t have the cash for one. Do some research on what a realistic outdoor kitchen budget is in the current market and see how that aligns with your available funds.
How do I Get Help with Outdoor Kitchen Planning?
Now that you know what time of year is best to start planning your outdoor kitchen project, and the things you should have in place before you start officially planning… you may feel in over your head, and like you need some extra guidance.
If so, there’s plenty of ways to get additional help with planning your outdoor kitchen. One of the best places to get started is simply having a chat with one of our Design Experts. They’ll get a sense for the scope of your project, your needs, and help guide you through the planning process. If nothing else, you’ll learn a lot about what you need to do next! Book a free consultation right below to get started.
