I built this a couple years ago but never got around to posting pictures.  From the beginning, I did not plan on built-in cooking appliances. I intended to get a Weber Genesis propane grill with side burner, but I’m pretty happy using a Weber charcoal kettle for most of my grilling and a Weber Q propane for quick meals- burgers, dogs, etc. 90% of the time there’s just two of us.  (note that the vines have been removed from behind the charcoal grill.)

I didn't keep detailed records but it was around $3500.   My original idea was for stainless steel doors, a proper outdoor fridge, and a built-in gas cooktop.  I realized that would triple the price (Outdoor rated under-cabinet built-in fridge is like $2000)  My sink with faucet was the most expensive single item at about $400.  The 36" x 24" stainless steel shelf was "blemished" and only cost $100 with shipping.  We got 1/3 of the pavers free then spent $600 for the rest.

I decided that instead of a built-in grill and burner I will buy a nice Weber Genesis with side burner when funds allow and my current Weber Q wears out.  This ends up being less than half the price of built-in options, plus I have the whole countertop available for work/entertaining. Now that I’ve had it a couple years, I don’t think I would really get much use out of a full-size gas grill. We were given a free full-size char broil brand for burner grill and it just took up too much room so I regifted it.

My sink drains to a hose that waters a nearby tree.  This is code compliant here thankfully so not a problem if we ever sell the house.

It took 10 years!  I put gravel base down and ran the water line and electrical conduit 10 years ago(shown in the first photo).   Then we bought an unrelated item from someone who was finishing a remodeling project and they gave us a bunch of pavers which kickstarted finishing the project up.

Belated photos of DIY kitchen Island