What does an outdoor kitchen cost?

The question about price almost always comes first. And that's just right. Anyone planning an outdoor kitchen wants to know what to expect before diving into the details.

The problem: On the internet, you'll rarely find clear answers. Many providers don't show prices, while others throw around "from CHF" figures that have little to do with reality.

Here, you'll get an honest overview. No exact price lists, but realistic ranges so you know where you stand.

What determines the price?

Four factors determine what your outdoor kitchen will ultimately cost:

Size and layout. A compact kitchen line with grill and work surface is significantly more affordable than an L-shaped setup with bar, sink, and refrigerator. The surface area alone often accounts for 30 to 40 percent of the price difference.

Materials. Stainless steel, ceramic, HPL, or natural stone have very different price points. High-quality materials cost more but last significantly longer, especially in the Swiss climate with frost and humidity.

Equipment. Every additional appliance impacts the price: gas grill, plancha, refrigerator, sink, lighting, power outlets. Not everything needs to be included from the start.

Installation and connections. Water, electricity, and gas need to be routed. Depending on the distance to the house and the ground conditions, these costs can vary greatly.

Price ranges at a glance

Here's a realistic breakdown for the Swiss market:

Entry-level (EUR 5.000 to 12'000). Compact, modular systems with grill and work surface. Usually freestanding, without water connection. Great for getting started, but with limited expandability.

Mid-range (EUR 12.000 to 25'000). More customized solutions with superior materials, sink, storage, and optional refrigerator. This is where the kitchen truly becomes suitable for everyday use.

Premium (EUR 25.000 to 50'000+). Custom-built kitchens with high-end surfaces, integrated appliances, lighting, and thoughtfully designed layouts. Built to last decades, not just seasons.

These ranges are guidelines. Your actual price depends on your situation: property, accessibility, desired appliances, and material choices.

Where is it worth investing?

Not every franc has the same impact. From our experience, three areas deliver the greatest added value:

Construction and materials. A solid foundation made from weatherproof material saves you repair and replacement costs over the years. Cheap fronts and fittings are the most common source of trouble after two to three winters. Theiss outdoor kitchens often don't need a traditional foundation because they use a carrying profile along the full length of the kitchen with adjustable feet. This saves costs and simplifies installation.

Work surface. Ample space for prep and plating makes the difference between pleasure and stress. Skimping here backfires with every use.

Connections. Plan electricity and water generously from the outset. Retrofitting is always more expensive than doing it right the first time.

Where can you save without sacrificing quality?

Build in stages. Start with the basics and add later. An outdoor bar, pizza oven, or special lighting don't need to be included in the first step, as long as the infrastructure is prepared for them.

Choose appliances thoughtfully. Not everyone needs a built-in smoker. Consider what you'll use regularly and invest there. Everything else can wait.

DIY for preparatory work. Preparing the foundation, digging cable ducts, or removing old paving: If you're handy, you can save a portion of the construction costs here.

Hidden costs that many overlook

A few items rarely appear in cost breakdowns but almost always come into play:

Foundation. Depending on the subsoil, you'll need a concrete foundation or at least a stable, level base. Budget EUR 1.000 to 3'000.

Roofing. A slatted roof or pergola protects the kitchen and extends its usability. Costs: from EUR 3.000 upward.

Lighting. Good task lighting over the work surface and ambient lighting for the dining area. Often an afterthought, then laboriously retrofitted.

Covers. High-quality, breathable protective covers cost between EUR 500 and 1'500, depending on size. Theiss outdoor kitchens are weatherproof and don't require covers. A cover is more practical if you don't grill in winter and just want to keep the kitchen clean.

Is the investment worth it?

An outdoor kitchen is no impulse buy. But it's one of the few home investments you'll feel every day: while cooking, dining with friends, or enjoying a quiet evening à deux.

High-quality outdoor kitchens last 15 to 30 years or more. Amortized over their lifespan, the price quickly becomes relative—especially compared to renovations you enjoy less often.

What's more: A well-planned outdoor kitchen increases the value of your property. Not as a sales pitch, but as a genuine enhancement to your home.

Next step

Want to know exactly what your outdoor kitchen would cost? We'll create a non-binding quote tailored to your property, your wishes, and your budget.