Before launching into project, think about the following design tips and considerations that will help you plan the ideal outdoor kitchen suited for you and your needs.

Type. Determining the best type of outdoor cooking center will depend on your budget, lifestyle and space, among other factors. At its most simple, it could include a grill and maybe a store-bought outdoor bar that serves as a counter.

Available Space. If you live on a sprawling lot, with acres, then your challenge might be making sure you don‚t have to walk too far from the house to the outdoor kitchen to fire up the grill. Most properties are smaller, presenting fewer choices for the location of a grill and outdoor kitchen area.

Permanent or Portable. If you rent or plan to move in the next few years, it might be a good idea to equip your outdoor kitchen with appliances and features that can move with you.

Budget. Make a budget and work within it. Things can easily get out of hand and end up costing more than anticipated, like materials, appliances, and labor. Additional costs include enlisting the services of a designer, obtaining permits, tools, and professional help for things like electrical and plumbing.

Maintenance. An outdoor kitchen is exposed to the elements. Even if you don‚t use it often, appliances and surfaces will need to be covered and maintained because they are outdoors. Think about the time and effort it will require to keep up a kitchen you build or install.