When we started working on our backyard transformation, we knew an outdoor kitchen would be the centerpiece of the space. Living in a small home, we’ve learned to maximize every inch of our property, and extending our living space outdoors has been a total game-changer. Outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular over the last few years, and for good reason—they’re functional, stylish, and can transform the way you enjoy your home.
While working on other backyard projects, we spent the year researching the best options for our backyard and we landed on a custom ready-to-assemble outdoor kitchen from RTA Outdoor Living. They offer hybrid custom DIY outdoor kitchen kits that combine everything you’d want in a fully customized kitchen with the convenience and affordability of ready-to-assemble solutions. In just four weeks—from the design process to installation—we had our dream kitchen ready to use.
I’d like to thank RTA Outdoor Living for sponsoring this post.
What is a Custom ready-to-assemble Outdoor Kitchen?
A custom ready-to-assemble outdoor kitchen is made to order and delivered right to your home, ready to assemble. It’s the perfect solution if you want an outdoor kitchen without the hassle of sourcing supplies or hiring contractors. Ready-to-assemble outdoor kitchens come with several advantages:
- Convenience: They’re delivered as kits, making them easier to install—sometimes in just a single day.
- Affordability: Ready-to-assemble kitchens are typically more cost-effective than fully custom-built ones.
- Customization: While not completely custom, ready-to-assemble kitchens allow for many design options, from measurements to materials to appliance configurations.
We loved the idea of balancing customization with convenience, and that’s exactly what RTA Outdoor Living offers. Their FREE DESIGN TOOL made it incredibly easy (and fun!) to bring our vision to life, and working with their design team helped us refine the layout to ensure maximum functionality.
Designing Our Custom DIY Outdoor Kitchen
When we began designing our kitchen, we had a clear vision of what we wanted: a gas grill, space for our smoker, and a layout that would work seamlessly for cooking and entertaining. RTA’s design team made the process so smooth. They helped us workshop the functionality of the kitchen and ensure every detail was perfect for our needs.
One standout feature of RTA’s products is their ability to incorporate appliances you already own. We were able to include our existing smoker alongside a brand-new gas grill, which saved us money and made the space feel even more personal.
What We Picked:
Shop our OUTDOOR KITCHEN
Why We Chose ready-to-assemble Over fully Custom
When choosing between fully custom and ready-to-assemble outdoor kitchens, there were a few key factors we considered. Cost was an important one—ready-to-assemble kitchens are typically more affordable while still offering high-end finishes. Installation was another major advantage, as ready-to-assemble kitchens are easier to assemble and take far less time than custom builds. Customization was the final deciding factor; ready-to-assemble kitchens, like those from RTA, offer a great balance by allowing tailored options for appliances, materials, and layouts. Ultimately, the combination of speed, affordability, and customization made ready-to-assemble the clear choice for us.
Why RTA Outdoor Living Stands Out
What sets RTA Outdoor Living apart from other ready-to-assemble options is their hybrid approach to customization. Their kits give you the feeling of designing a truly custom kitchen without the long wait times or higher costs. From the design process to the quality of materials, everything feels premium and built to last.
Living in Florida, we needed something durable and weather-resistant, and RTA delivered. Their products are built to withstand the elements while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic. I love the way it looks under our new pergola!
How This Kitchen Changed the Way We Live
We’re not exaggerating when we say we’ll use this kitchen more than the one inside our house. Living in a small home in Florida, expanding our living space outdoors has completely transformed the way we entertain and spend time together.
From weekday dinners to weekend gatherings, this kitchen has already become the heart of our backyard. It’s functional, beautiful, and incredibly easy to use, thanks to RTA Outdoor Living’s thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship.
Tips for Designing Your Own Outdoor Kitchen
If you’re considering a custom DIY outdoor kitchen kit, working with a company like RTA Outdoor Living can make the process seamless. Start by defining your needs—think about essentials like a grill, sink, or refrigerator, and use RTA’s free design tool to bring your vision to life. Measure your space to ensure a perfect fit, whether you’re working with a large backyard or a smaller patio.
Choose durable, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel or concrete, which RTA specializes in for lasting quality. If you already own appliances, RTA can customize your kit to incorporate them seamlessly, saving you money. Finally, consult with RTA’s design team to refine your layout for optimal functionality and style. With their expertise, creating a kitchen that’s both beautiful and practical is effortless.