Outdoor Kitchens vs BBQ Islands
By now it’s no surprise that outdoor cooking and entertaining has become an intentional extension of home design. Entertaining outdoors not only adds additional space to cook and entertain, it’s also a fun place to gather. With the growing trend of outdoor cooking and entertaining you may find yourself deciding between a BBQ grill island or a full outdoor kitchen. This blog will walk you through the differences to make the best decision and what works for you and your space.
What is an Outdoor Kitchen?
An outdoor kitchen is a full cooking space outdoors. Some outdoor kitchen ideas include a bar, a grill, prep counters, storage cabinet and drawers and a place for appliances like pizza ovens and grills. Outdoor kitchens can be custom built for your dimensions or you can choose modular outdoor kitchens that offer long-term flexibility with easy to add and move around pieces.
What is a BBQ Island?
A BBQ island is generally a smaller scale outdoor cooking space, usually a built-in modular counter with a grill at the center. This counter sometimes includes storage drawers and cabinets and a fridge or a sink. It’s more cost effective than a full outdoor kitchen and it’s best suited for those with smaller spaces who may not entertain outdoors as much.
Outdoor Kitchens vs. BBQ Islands: Key Differences
When you are looking at an outdoor kitchen vs BBQ island there are some key differences. Here are some of the pros and cons of each.
Outdoor Kitchens
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Typically larger designed for more expansive outdoor spaces.
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With an outdoor kitchen you get more functionality and cooking options. Outdoor kitchen grills and islands usually have multiple appliances like pizza ovens and grills, plus a sink, refrigerator and more.
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Customization with room for expansion. If you choose modular outdoor kitchens you have the flexibility to add and reconfigure your space over time.
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Higher up-front costs. Filling more space is usually a larger investment but with well-made outdoor kitchens, that investment should last for decades to come.
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Valuable for entertaining. With plenty of space to cook, serve and gather, an outdoor kitchen is a true extension of your home.
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Strong resale value: Adding an outdoor kitchen boosts resale appeal.
BBQ Islands
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Typically smaller: BBQ islands are great for more compact outdoor spaces
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Centered around one or two appliances. A BBQ grill island is generally centered around a grill, although some BBQ islands have a different outdoor kitchen appliance
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Limited customization. A single BBQ island is usually just that. However if you choose modular furniture you can add on in the future if space allows.
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Lower upfront cost. Focusing on just a BBQ island is more cost effective when comparing a BBQ island vs outdoor kitchen.
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More functional than fun. BBQ grill islands generally have an outdoor appliance and prep space with little room for seating.
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ROI: A BBQ outdoor island is nice to have but doesn’t boost your home value like it does comparing an outdoor kitchen vs grill island.
Which One is Right for You?
If you are looking at an outdoor kitchen vs grill island you’ll want to mainly consider three things:
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Space: A BBQ island generally takes up much less space so it’s the right option if you are working with a smaller footprint. An outdoor kitchen in comparison can work better for a larger space.
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Cost: If a lower budget is your main consideration, you’ll pick a BBQ island. If you choose modular furniture and you have the space, over time you can turn it into a BBQ island outdoor kitchen if you choose.
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Purpose: If you love entertaining and want to have lots of seating and multiple outdoor kitchen appliances, the outdoor kitchen is the right choice. Again, choosing a modular kitchen option allows you to add over time. If you are looking for a space to simply prep and grill, you may want to choose a BBQ island.
FAQs
Q: Can I add a pizza oven to a BBQ island?
A: Yes! BBQ islands aren’t just for grills. You can absolutely add a pizza oven to your BBQ island. The more appliances you want to add you may want to consider a full outdoor kitchen but a BBQ island would absolutely work with a pizza oven.
Q: What’s the average cost difference between a BBQ island and a full outdoor kitchen?
A: The cost difference between a BBQ island and a full outdoor kitchen is usually around $3,000 and up. The cost difference depends greatly on the appliances you include, the finishes you select, if you need to run a gas line or connect to water, etc.
Q: Can I start with an island and expand later?
A: Absolutely! Modular outdoor furniture is designed for that purpose. It’s easy to add on or rearrange at any point, that’s what makes it so great.
Q: Do I need a permit for an outdoor kitchen?
A: You should always consult your local municipalities as every city and town is different. However, for the most part you won’t need a permit for our modular outdoor kitchens because you aren’t digging or expanding your property. Think of adding an outdoor kitchen like you would adding a table and chairs to your outdoor space.
About Fontana Forni Outdoor Kitchens and Islands
For over 70 years, Fontana Forni has been synonymous with exceptional Italian craftsmanship. Our outdoor steel pizza ovens are a representation of Italian culture, embodying a passion for delicious food and good conversation at the heart of everything we do.
Elysia extends that philosophy with modular outdoor kitchens that are as beautiful as they are functional, offering a true gathering space for family and friends.
With a fully customizable modular design, the kitchens offer versatility, seamlessly fitting into any outdoor space and budget. Their adaptable nature ensures they can evolve with your changing needs.
Each steel module is designed with the Italian craftsmanship you expect from Fontana Forni. Just like our ovens, the assembly is quick and easy.
Looking to build an outdoor kitchen or BBQ island? Our modular pieces are designed to fit spaces small or large. Use our configurator to see how it would look in your backyard.
