Why Modular Kitchens Are Revolutionizing Outdoor Home Design

In recent years, outdoor spaces have become a true extension of a home. People are incorporating indoor comfort into outdoor spaces in the form of plush seating and gear for entertaining. While we’ve always had pizza ovens for gathering with family and friends, we recently introduced customizable modular outdoor kitchens, perfect to fit outdoor spaces big and small. 

What is a Modular Outdoor Kitchen?

Elysia Forno Lunga outdoor kitchen by Fontana next to wall

A modular outdoor kitchen is made of functional, durable and customizable pieces of outdoor furniture designed to work with your own space. There are many benefits of modular kitchens in outdoor spaces.

Benefits of Modular Outdoor Kitchens

  • Flexible: The modules can be configured to work however you need them to with adjustable feet for stability and adjustable hinges on doors and drawers.

  • Durable: All of our modules are weather-resistant and built to last in the outdoors year-round with a dual powder coating for extreme temperatures..

  • Made to last: Elysia modular outdoor kitchens are made of galvannealed steel and  rust-proof. 

  • Easy to assemble: Assembly takes about 30-45 minutes for every piece.

What are modular kitchens and how do they differ from traditional built-in kitchens?

Modular kitchens differ from traditional built-in kitchens in many ways. They are generally easier to install, more space-efficient and customizable. 

Feature

Modular Outdoor Kitchens (e.g., Fontana)

Traditional Built-In Kitchens

Installation Time

1-2 Days

2-4 Weeks

Lead Time

Shipped and arrives in weeks

6-12+ Weeks

Permit Required

No

Yes

Customization

Modular & Configurable

Fully Custom, Requires Contractor

Avg. Cost per Linear Foot

$900-$2,000

$2,000-$4000

Assembly Required

Minimal (Philips head and adjustable wrench)

Professional Installation

Material Quality

Outdoor-Rated, Powder Coated

Varies by Contractor

Ease of Expansion

Easy to Add Modules

Difficult and Needs Renovation

Countertop Options

Piece-by-Piece or Fabricator

Typically Fabricator Required

Soft Close Doors & Drawers

Included Standard

Optional add-on

Integrated ventilation

Included Standard

Optional add-on

Standard Counter Depth

Yes

Custom Defined

Materials Used

Powder Coated Galvannealed Steel

Typical Stucco, Masonry or Framing

 

Include A Modular Kitchen In Your Outdoor Design

There are many benefits to choosing modular kitchens for outdoor design.

  • Flexibility and customization: modular kitchens allow you to design exactly what you want for your ideal backyard setup.

  • Space efficiency: There’s no need to fret about dimensions not fitting into the space you already have. Modular kitchens allow you to make the most of your space piece by piece.

  • Home resale value: Modular outdoor kitchens add a unique element to your outdoor design sure to help with the resale value of your home.

  • High-end aesthetic design: Each module is fully customizable in color and countertop. Choose from one of our selections or have your own countertop fabricated for a high-end look that is unique to your style. 

  • Ease of installation: Modular outdoor kitchens are easy to install and easy to reconfigure as your needs change. 

  • The perfect space for outdoor entertaining: Your backyard will be the one everyone wants to hang out in. A modular outdoor kitchen allows you to design the perfect entertaining space for you and your guests.

Design Trends Shaping Modular Outdoor Kitchens

There’s a reason why outdoor kitchen design trends include modular kitchens. Trends show that people want a seamless indoor-outdoor flow with options to coordinate the colors and materials inside their home with those outside.

Multifunctional entertaining spaces where you can host, cook and relax are also a big outdoor kitchen design trend this year. It makes sense. People want spaces that are both functional and fun. Modular kitchens work well with this trend, especially since they seamlessly allow you to work with the space you already have and integrate the appliances you already own.

Another modular kitchen design trend is modular kitchen islands with seating so your guests can be part of the cooking action or just enjoy a cocktail and the view. Our modules allow for you to add your own custom countertop or choose from one of our Neolith options. 

FAQs

What is the average cost of a modular outdoor kitchen setup?

The average cost of a modular outdoor kitchen setup is $900-$3,000 per linear foot. Fontana’s Elysia falls right in the middle at around $1,200 per linear foot. Some of our more common configurations run between $10,000-$14,000.

Are modular outdoor kitchens durable?

Modular outdoor kitchens are incredibly durable and made to withstand the elements of the outdoors no matter where you live. Elysia, modular outdoor kitchens by Fonatana, are dual powder coated for extreme weather and they are made of strong  rustproof Galvannealed steel.

Do modular kitchens need professional installation?

One of the modular kitchen benefits is that they do not need professional installation, unlike built-in traditional kitchens. Each module usually takes 30-45 minutes to install. They also don’t require permitting because they are considered freestanding modular objects.

Can I add to a modular outdoor kitchen over time?

Absolutely! One of the main modular kitchen benefits is that you can easily add to a modular outdoor kitchen over time. Swap out pieces or add as you choose to grow your outdoor entertaining space.

About Elysia, Fontana Forni’s Modular Outdoor Kitchens

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.

Explore the various pieces of our outdoor modular kitchens and check out our configurator to view the Elysia modular kitchens in your own backyard.