Hardscape Service
Outdoor Kitchens
Built-in grills, stone counters, and full outdoor cooking spaces engineered for Michigan weather.
Home & Hardscape designs and builds custom outdoor kitchens for homeowners throughout Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan. From a simple built-in grill station to a full outdoor cooking and entertaining space, we handle the structure, stone work, and coordination of all trades.
What Is an Outdoor Kitchen?
An outdoor kitchen is a permanent, built-in cooking and entertaining structure installed on your patio or deck. At minimum, it includes a built-in grill set into a stone or block counter. A full outdoor kitchen can include a refrigerator, sink, side burners, pizza oven, storage, a bar counter with seating, and a pergola or shade structure overhead.
Outdoor kitchens in Metro Detroit extend your entertaining season from spring through fall and eliminate the back-and-forth between inside and outside during cookouts.
Configurations
Outdoor Kitchen Layouts
Straight Run
The simplest layout — a countertop structure running along one side of the patio with a built-in grill, storage drawers, and counter space. Works well for smaller patios or as a starting point that can be expanded later.
L-Shaped
Two sections meeting at a corner, creating more counter space and room for additional appliances. Good for larger patios and households that cook outdoors often.
U-Shaped
Three sections wrapping around a central workspace. The most functional layout for serious outdoor cooking. Often includes a bar overhang on one side for guests to sit and face the cook.
Island With Seating
A freestanding island with a built-in grill on one side and a bar overhang on the other. Creates a social cooking setup where guests sit at the counter while food is being prepared. Popular for homes that entertain regularly.
Features
Common Outdoor Kitchen Features
Built-In Grill
The core of any outdoor kitchen. We build the surround to fit your preferred grill brand and size. Stainless steel grills from brands like Weber, Blaze, and Lynx hold up well outdoors.
Refrigerator
An outdoor-rated undercounter refrigerator keeps drinks and prep ingredients accessible without trips inside. Requires an electrical circuit run to the kitchen area.
Sink
An outdoor sink makes food prep and cleanup significantly easier. Requires both a water supply line and a drain. We coordinate the plumbing with a licensed contractor.
Side Burners
For pots, pans, and anything that doesn't go on the grill. Integrated into the countertop alongside the main grill.
Pizza Oven
Wood-fired or gas pizza ovens are an increasingly popular addition. They can be built into the structure or mounted above it and become a strong focal point for the outdoor kitchen.
Storage Drawers & Doors
Stainless steel access doors and drawers keep grilling tools, propane, and supplies organized and protected.
Countertop Material
We use granite, concrete, and porcelain tile for outdoor kitchen countertops. All three handle Michigan weather well when properly sealed. Granite is the most popular for its durability and appearance.
Pricing
How Much Does an Outdoor Kitchen Cost?
Outdoor kitchen costs in Metro Detroit typically range from $8,000 to $35,000+ depending on size, features, and materials.
Basic L-Shaped Kitchen
$8,000 – $15,000
Built-in grill, storage, and granite counter.
Full Outdoor Kitchen
$25,000 – $40,000+
Grill, refrigerator, sink, pizza oven, bar seating, and pergola.
What Affects The Price
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Size and layout — More counter runs and appliance cutouts mean more material and labor.
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Appliances — Grill and appliance brands vary widely in price; we work with your budget.
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Countertop material — Granite and concrete cost more than tile.
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Utilities — Running gas, electrical, and plumbing to the outdoor kitchen adds cost and requires licensed subcontractors.
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Shade structure — Adding a pergola or shade sail over the kitchen is a significant addition to the project scope.
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Existing patio — Building on an existing patio is less expensive than combining a new patio with an outdoor kitchen build.
We provide free on-site estimates with itemized pricing before any work begins.
How We Build
Installation Process
Design Consultation
We discuss your layout, appliance preferences, countertop material, and how you use your outdoor space. We also identify utility needs — gas, electric, water — early in the process.
Permits
Outdoor kitchens with gas, electrical, or plumbing connections require permits. We manage the permit process and coordinate licensed subcontractors for utility work.
Foundation & Framing
The kitchen structure is built on a concrete footing or existing patio slab. The frame is typically steel stud or concrete block — both hold up better outdoors than wood framing.
Utility Rough-In
Gas lines, electrical conduit, and plumbing supply and drain lines are installed before the exterior is closed up.
Stone or Tile Exterior
The structure is finished with natural stone, manufactured stone veneer, or porcelain tile to match your patio and home.
Countertop Installation
Granite, concrete, or tile countertops are set and sealed.
Appliance Installation
Grill, refrigerator, sink, and other appliances are dropped in and connected.
Final Inspection & Walkthrough
All utility connections are inspected and approved. We walk the finished kitchen with you before we leave.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Let's Talk About Your Project
We respond within 24 hours. No pressure, no obligation.