DIY Modular Outdoor Kitchen Kit: Build in a Day & Our 3-Year Honest Review
Imagine transforming your backyard into a culinary oasis in just a single day. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, prepare to be amazed! We successfully built a complete modular outdoor kitchen from RTA Outdoor Living with Coyote appliances in a remarkably short timeframe, requiring only two people and one basic tool. And here’s the best part: we’re sharing our brutally honest review of the entire process, including how this outdoor kitchen has gracefully stood the test of time for over three years since its installation in 2021.
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor kitchen this year, this comprehensive guide is for you. We’ll deep-dive into every aspect, from the initial planning and straightforward assembly to its long-term durability and functionality. Get ready to discover if a DIY modular outdoor kitchen kit is the perfect solution for your home, offering both speed and lasting quality.
To cut straight to the chase: we wholeheartedly recommend this type of prefab outdoor kitchen project. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to quickly enhance their outdoor living space without the complexities and delays often associated with traditional construction. Our family has enjoyed countless memorable moments around it since 2021, transforming our backyard into a true extension of our home.
However, like any significant home improvement, there are nuances and specific considerations worth knowing before you embark on your own project. We’re committed to providing a transparent overview, detailing both the significant advantages and the minor drawbacks. From surprising ease of assembly to impressive long-term resilience, we’ll cover all the pros and cons that make this a truly unique outdoor kitchen solution.
Before we fully styled our inviting pergola cabana, our pool deck featured a rather uninspired concrete slab. We captured a quick “before” shot to truly illustrate the dramatic transformation.
It’s hard to believe, but literally just a few hours after that “before” picture was taken, we had this stunning, semi-custom outdoor kitchen ready and waiting for our very first backyard cookout. The speed of this transformation was, frankly, astonishing and remains one of the most compelling aspects of choosing a modular kit.
Outdoor Kitchen Space: A Remarkable Before and After Transformation
Our journey to create this incredible outdoor space has been a labor of love over the past few years, involving numerous projects that culminated in this fantastic kitchen. It’s been a long and rewarding road, meticulously transforming every corner of our backyard:
- Taming the overgrown landscaping to create a lush, inviting environment.
- Updating the swimming pool, giving it a fresh, modern look for endless summer fun.
- Painting the pool shed, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and integrating it seamlessly into the new design.
- Revitalizing the concrete pool deck and patio with a fresh coat of paint, adding both style and durability.
- Building the elegant pergola cabana, providing shade and a beautiful architectural focal point.
- Constructing a fun bocce ball court, adding a unique entertainment option for family and friends.
- Creating a cozy fire pit area, perfect for evening gatherings and s’mores.
Each of these DIY projects demanded significant hard work and dedication, slowly shaping our vision for the ultimate outdoor living experience. We initially believed that an outdoor kitchen would be an impossibly complex undertaking, requiring custom builds and professional contractors. However, exploring the readily available DIY outdoor kitchen kits completely changed our perspective. We quickly realized that achieving our dream outdoor kitchen could be much faster and more accessible than we ever imagined, paving the way for the RTA Outdoor Living and Coyote appliance setup.
Why DIY Modular Outdoor Kitchen Kits Are a Smart Investment
For years, the idea of an outdoor kitchen felt like an unattainable dream. Our imagination painted a picture of a project that would inevitably involve:
- Weeks, if not months, of meticulous planning and design consultation.
- Hiring expensive design experts and specialized contractors for complex construction.
- Several days or even weeks of disruptive building, weather delays, and ongoing coordination.
We knew that investing in an outdoor kitchen would be a significant splurge, especially given our extensive backyard renovations. However, considering how frequently we host backyard cookouts and the undeniable fact that outdoor kitchens significantly increase a home’s value, we were prepared to commit to a traditional, custom build from scratch. We simply didn’t see another viable option.
That all changed when we discovered the Modular Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets System (MOKS) from RTA Outdoor Living, paired with top-tier Coyote Outdoor appliances. To our astonishment, my husband Robert and I assembled this entire outdoor kitchen in precisely eight hours! This was a game-changer, shattering all our preconceived notions about outdoor kitchen construction.
The entire experience, from initial planning to the final build, proved to be:
- Effortless to Plan and Order: The selection process was streamlined and user-friendly, allowing us to easily customize our ideal setup.
- Remarkably Quick to Execute: The promise of a “build in a day” was not an exaggeration; the entire unit came together with incredible speed.
- Simple to Assemble: Requiring only basic DIY skills and minimal tools, making it accessible for nearly any homeowner.
It’s worth noting that we were among the early adopters, essentially “guinea pigs,” for this particular modular outdoor kitchen system when it first hit the market. Consequently, our assembly process took slightly longer than it might for others today. RTA Outdoor Living has since incorporated valuable feedback and made several assembly design tweaks, smoothing out any initial kinks. This means that for current homeowners, the process of building their RTA outdoor kitchen would likely be even faster and more seamless than our initial experience.
Designing Your Dream: Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen Layout
The first exciting step was to meticulously choose the ideal kitchen setup from RTA Outdoor Living’s diverse range of configurations available on their website. This process was surprisingly straightforward, allowing us to envision and select components that perfectly matched our family’s needs and lifestyle. Given our existing backyard setup, we decided against routing any new plumbing to our pool deck. This meant opting for a design without an outdoor sink, which simplified the installation and reduced costs.
Our chosen outdoor kitchen design thoughtfully incorporated the following high-quality components, creating a highly functional and inviting space:
- A robust 36″ Coyote C Series Grill: The centerpiece for all our grilling adventures, offering ample cooking space and powerful performance.
- An efficient outdoor refrigerator: Essential for keeping drinks chilled and ingredients fresh, minimizing trips back to the indoor kitchen.
- A convenient pull-out trash and recycling unit: A crucial element for maintaining cleanliness and organization during outdoor gatherings.
- Spacious double storage drawers and a dedicated storage space cabinet: Providing ample room for grilling tools, serving ware, and other outdoor essentials, keeping our outdoor area tidy and functional.
To further enhance the entertainment aspect and provide additional seating for our guests, we strategically added a stylish bar island. This thoughtful addition not only increased the overall footprint of the kitchen but also created a casual, inviting spot for friends and family to gather while we’re cooking.
RTA Outdoor Living also offers a variety of additional module design options, including custom styles and a sophisticated stone veneer option for their DIY BBQ island kits. While these options provide a higher degree of customization and a premium aesthetic, we found that the MOKS island frame kit perfectly suited our needs, offering excellent functionality and durability within a more accessible price range. The flexibility to choose between various finishes and configurations ensures that every homeowner can find a solution that aligns with their budget and design preferences.
Seamless Delivery: Your Outdoor Kitchen Arrives Ready to Assemble
One of the most impressive aspects of choosing a modular outdoor kitchen kit is the organized and efficient delivery process. Every single component, from the robust cabinet frames to the high-end Coyote appliances and durable countertops, arrived meticulously packaged on pallets. This systematic approach ensures that all necessary parts are accounted for and protected during transit, making the subsequent assembly process much smoother.
Upon arrival, we were ready to tackle the unpacking and staging of our new outdoor kitchen. (Please excuse the candid glimpse into our garage at the time—it was, shall we say, a work in progress, not our usual perfectly organized sanctuary! *chuckles*). Despite the temporary chaos, the individual components were clearly labeled and ready to be transported to their final assembly location.
The clear organization of the delivered materials underscored the thoughtful engineering behind RTA Outdoor Living’s kits, demonstrating their commitment to simplifying the DIY experience from start to finish. This streamlined delivery sets the stage for a remarkably quick and enjoyable build, which we were about to discover firsthand.
Assembly: Building Your Outdoor Kitchen in Just Hours
The assembly process for our RTA Outdoor Living kitchen was shockingly simple and efficient. We initially enlisted the help of my dad and Robert’s best friend, expecting a full day of heavy lifting and complex construction. However, after just a short time working together, we realized how genuinely easy the modular system was to put together. To their surprise (and ours!), we ended up sending them home, confident that Robert and I, as a husband-and-wife duo, could comfortably complete the entire project ourselves. This truly highlights the accessibility of these DIY kits!
While I focused more on capturing the step-by-step process on video, providing a dynamic and detailed guide, I’ll share the key stages here. You can imagine the satisfaction of seeing it all come together so rapidly.
Step 1: Constructing the Robust Island Frame
The initial phase involved meticulously following the provided instructions to construct the foundational frame of the grill island. This essentially meant assembling three sides of a sturdy “box” structure. The pieces fit together intuitively, guided by clear diagrams and pre-drilled holes, making the process feel much like building with oversized LEGOs. This core structure forms the robust backbone of the entire kitchen, ensuring stability and precise alignment for the subsequent components. The lightweight yet durable composite material made it easy for us to maneuver and lift the frame sections into place.
Step 2: Seamlessly Integrating Appliances and Storage
Once the main frame was standing, the next exciting step was to integrate the various pre-assembled Coyote Outdoor appliances and storage components. This was where the modular design truly shone. Each appliance, from the powerful grill to the convenient outdoor refrigerator and pull-out trash unit, was designed to slide effortlessly into designated openings within the island frame. We then securely fastened each component using the provided screws, ensuring a snug and stable fit. This modular approach significantly reduces installation time and eliminates the need for any custom cutting or intricate cabinetry work, a common headache with traditional outdoor kitchens.
Step 3: Attaching the Elegant Corian Countertop
With all the appliances and storage components firmly in place, the kitchen truly began to take shape with the installation of the countertop. We carefully slid the sleek Corian countertops into predefined notches along the top of the island frame. This ingenious design ensured a perfect fit and a secure attachment without the need for messy adhesives or complex fastening systems. The weight of the Corian added a sense of solidity and luxury, instantly elevating the aesthetic of the entire unit. It was incredibly satisfying to see the smooth, continuous surface come together, ready for years of outdoor entertaining and culinary creativity.
Step 4: Incorporating the Functional Bar Island
The final structural step involved attaching the integrated bar island to our main storage cabinet. This process mirrored the ease of the previous steps; the bar island components seamlessly connected to the existing structure, designed for a perfect fit. The addition of the bar island not only expanded our counter space but also created an inviting, elevated area for guests to sit, enjoy a drink, and socialize while we prepared meals. This thoughtful design element truly enhances the social aspect of our outdoor kitchen, making it a focal point for gatherings.
Remarkably, the entire outdoor kitchen assembly is designed to be completed with minimal tools—primarily just a screwdriver or a power drill. This simplicity is a testament to the intelligent engineering of the RTA Outdoor Living system. Within a single day, what started as a collection of pallets transformed into a fully functional, stylish, and durable outdoor kitchen.
That was it! No complex cuts, no masonry work, no specialized contractors needed. Just a well-designed kit and a couple of dedicated DIYers.
Long-Term Durability: How Our Outdoor Kitchen Stands Up After 3 Years
One of the most critical considerations for any outdoor investment is its ability to withstand the elements and maintain its appearance and functionality over time. We are thrilled to report on the exceptional durability of our RTA Outdoor Living kitchen after three years of continuous use. The kitchen is expertly crafted from a robust marine-grade composite material, a choice specifically made for its resilience in challenging outdoor environments. This is complemented by 304 stainless steel appliances from Coyote, ensuring every component is outdoor-rated and built with low-maintenance materials designed to last.
We absolutely adore how clean and sleek the white composite material looks against our more rustic, limewashed brick exterior. The contrast creates a modern yet inviting aesthetic that truly enhances our backyard’s overall design. Initially, a primary concern was whether the pristine white composite material would discolor or show significant wear under the intense sun and varying weather conditions. However, after three full years, our worries have proven unfounded! The material has maintained its crisp, clean appearance, showing minimal signs of aging or discoloration. We are incredibly pleased with the enduring quality and aesthetic of this modular kitchen.
Overall, our experience over the past three years confirms our initial enthusiasm: we are genuinely big fans of this outdoor kitchen. It has become an integral part of our daily life and entertaining, proving its worth countless times. And yes, if you happen to catch me sticking my head in that outdoor fridge on one of our scorching 100-degree July days, please, mind your business – it’s a lifesaver!
The Advantages: Why a Modular Outdoor Kitchen Kit Excels
Having experienced the full lifecycle of our MOKS kitchen from assembly to its three-year performance, we’ve gathered a clear list of its standout advantages:
Remarkably Quick Assembly
Without a doubt, the speed of assembly is one of the most compelling reasons to choose a modular outdoor kitchen. Unlike traditional custom builds that can drag on for weeks, our RTA Outdoor Living kitchen was erected in a matter of hours. The pre-fabricated nature of the components and the intuitive interlocking design significantly streamline the process. Furthermore, the lightweight yet durable composite material made it incredibly easy for just two people to manage and lift during assembly, eliminating the need for a large crew or specialized equipment. This means less disruption to your backyard and quicker access to your new outdoor living space.
Significantly More Affordable Than Custom Builds
While an outdoor kitchen is an investment, a modular kit offers a considerable cost saving compared to a traditional custom-built outdoor kitchen. By choosing a pre-designed and pre-fabricated system, you bypass the hefty expenses associated with hiring multiple contractors such as carpenters, masons, or general contractors. The labor costs, design fees, and material waste often linked with bespoke projects are dramatically reduced or eliminated. This efficiency translates directly into a more budget-friendly option, allowing you to achieve a high-quality outdoor kitchen without the exorbitant price tag of a full custom construction.
Exceptional Durability and Weather Resistance
Constructed from marine-grade composite, our outdoor kitchen is built to withstand the harshest outdoor conditions. This robust material is not only incredibly durable but also heavy enough to remain stable during severe weather. Over the past three years, we’ve experienced several tropical storms and numerous heavy downpours, yet every component of the kitchen has held up perfectly. There’s been no warping, cracking, or deterioration, testament to the superior engineering and material quality designed specifically for outdoor longevity. This resilience provides peace of mind, knowing your investment is secure against the elements.
High-Quality, Outdoor-Rated Appliances
The RTA Outdoor Living system is specifically designed to integrate with top-of-the-line, outdoor-rated appliances from Coyote. This ensures that every cooking and refrigeration unit is manufactured to the highest standards for outdoor use, capable of enduring varying temperatures and moisture levels. After three years, we can confidently say that our Coyote appliances show no signs of rust or performance issues; everything is still running perfectly. This commitment to quality appliances is crucial for a lasting outdoor kitchen experience, providing reliable functionality season after season.
Effortless Maintenance and Cleaning
Maintaining the pristine appearance of our outdoor kitchen is surprisingly simple, thanks to the low-maintenance composite material. Every spring, as part of our comprehensive backyard cleaning routine, we give the entire kitchen a thorough spray down with a pressure washer, easily removing any accumulated dirt or grime from the winter months. For quick touch-ups before a gathering, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to make it look brand new. This ease of cleaning means less time spent on upkeep and more time enjoying your beautiful outdoor space.
The Considerations: Aspects to Keep in Mind
While our experience with this backyard kitchen has been overwhelmingly positive, an honest review requires acknowledging a few aspects that might be considered drawbacks for some homeowners.
Initial Investment (Price)
The most significant consideration for many will be the upfront cost of this outdoor kitchen kit. It’s true that what you gain in immense time savings and ease of installation, you offset with a higher initial budget compared to building a very basic outdoor kitchen entirely from scratch using simpler materials. For instance, at the time of this post, our specific M6 L-Shape Refrigeration Island & Storage Bar configuration costs approximately $13,595. It’s important to note that over half of this amount is attributed to the premium Coyote appliances alone, which are known for their high quality and outdoor rating.
While building a kitchen from individual components might theoretically be cheaper, it would undoubtedly involve significantly more time, effort, and potentially multiple contractors, especially when accounting for weather delays and unforeseen challenges. This kit offers a premium solution with guaranteed quality and a dramatically expedited timeline, which for many, justifies the investment.
Limited Customization in Design Options
While RTA Outdoor Living offers various configurations and a stone veneer option, the modular nature of the kit inherently provides a more standardized aesthetic compared to a fully custom-built outdoor kitchen. I confess, I initially wished we could have matched our kitchen with a white brick design, similar to the charming brickwork on our home. However, the sleek, contemporary white composite material has truly grown on us and now adds a distinctly modern and fresh look to our backyard, providing a beautiful contrast to our more traditional house. It’s a trade-off between ultimate bespoke design and the efficiency of a modular system.
Focus on Gas Grills (No Charcoal or Smoker Option)
One specific limitation we encountered was the appliance selection, which primarily focuses on built-in gas grills to ensure seamless integration and ease of use. While convenient, my barbecue-loving husband deeply misses having a dedicated charcoal grill and a slow smoker, which are essential for certain culinary techniques and flavors. This might be a separate component we consider adding on the side in the future, as it doesn’t integrate directly into the existing kit. We do wish RTA Outdoor Living and Coyote offered a modular appliance option for charcoal enthusiasts and smokers within their kit configurations.
Despite these minor considerations, Robert and I not only successfully assembled this gorgeous outdoor kitchen while, remarkably, remaining on speaking terms (a true testament to its ease of build!), but we genuinely adore this backyard setup. It has profoundly enhanced our outdoor living experience and continues to be a source of joy for our family and friends.
You can delve deeper into the innovative MOKS system from RTA Outdoor Living and explore the full range of Coyote Outdoor appliances here. We highly recommend visiting their sites to see the full potential of these fantastic outdoor kitchen solutions.
Our backyard transformation has been quite a long, albeit rewarding, journey over the past few years. Each project, culminating in this incredible outdoor kitchen, has truly paid off, turning our vision into a tangible reality. We still have plans to eventually install stamped concrete on our pool deck to complete the aesthetic. But other than that final touch, we can proudly say we’re seeing the finish line for our ultimate outdoor living space!
Indeed, a home wasn’t built in a day, and it appears neither is a fully realized backyard oasis. But with smart modular solutions, you can certainly achieve significant milestones in record time.
Have you been hard at work on outdoor projects this summer? What are some big wins you’ve had in transforming your own outdoor spaces? We’ve become quite obsessed with all things outdoor living here this year, and we’d love to hear about your experiences and successes!
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Kitchens
The cost of an outdoor kitchen can vary dramatically based on several factors, including the types of materials used (e.g., stone, stucco, composite), the quality and brand of appliances (grills, refrigerators, sinks), the number of components included, and whether you opt for a custom build or a DIY kit. While the national average is often cited around $495 per linear foot, this can fluctuate significantly. A basic DIY modular kit might start around $5,000-$8,000, whereas a fully custom, high-end outdoor kitchen with plumbing, electrical, and premium appliances can easily exceed $20,000 to $50,000. Our RTA Outdoor Living kit, including Coyote appliances, represented a mid-to-high-range investment, balancing quality and ease of installation.
Absolutely, building an outdoor kitchen is widely considered a worthwhile investment. Beyond the immediate benefit of providing a more expansive and enjoyable living space for entertaining and gathering with guests, outdoor kitchens offer substantial return on investment (ROI). Homeowners typically see an ROI of 100-200% on the resale value of their homes, making it one of the top home improvements for increasing property value. Furthermore, the enhanced lifestyle, convenience, and opportunities for outdoor dining and socialization contribute to an overall improved quality of life that extends far beyond monetary value.
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