Creating a dedicated BBQ area is a fantastic addition to any outdoor space. It’s perfect for hosting BBQ parties with friends and family and allows you to escape the heat of cooking indoors during summer. A BBQ area can also serve as a focal point in your backyard while increasing the property value.
There are so many ideas for creating the perfect BBQ area. And you don’t have to compromise on looks, comfort, or convenience. Do you have a large backyard with the possibility of creating an outdoor kitchen, or can the space only fit a BBQ and some furniture? These ideas will make it all work stylishly and seamlessly. Here are a few tips on how to build and make your BBQ area both practical and beautiful.
Pick a Spot
Before you start buying or building anything, finding the right spot for an outdoor BBQ station is essential. You want somewhere accessible to the house tomove food items to and from the house quickly. But it shouldn’t be too close to the doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering the house.
A shaded area is also attractive to keep the BBQ area from getting too hot, especially during humid summers.
Consider the Material
You’ll need different materials to construct your BBQ area, including wood, tile, brick, cement, stone, etc.
It’s crucial that you pick durable materials that don’t compromise safety and aesthetics. Use materials that blend in with the rest of the house. A bit of mixing and matching will also have satisfactory results.
Select the Right Layout
How you position appliances, furniture, and accessories in your BBQ area will affect its overall look and function. Thus, select the layout depending on the available space, design theme, and traffic volume.
For instance, place the furniture lengthwise against the garden wall if you have a narrow backyard. Round tables won’t work here, so consider rectangular ones. But if you have more space, you can create a whole outdoor kitchen with work surfaces and a sink.
What’s important is to create a better flow so the BBQ area is easy to use while allowing for a seamless transition into the house.
Add Practical Equipment
You may be carried away by the prospect of buying all kinds of equipment to fill your outdoor space. But it’s best to get functional equipment first. This will save you money while preventing clutter.
Start with a high-quality grill to make your space functional with a more luxurious feel. Then you can add a compact refrigerator, outdoor sink, and more, depending on your needs, space, and budget.
Add Storage
Adding storage to an outdoor BBQ area is always a good idea. This will offer enough space to store cutlery, cooking utensils, spices, condiments, and much more. Your BBQ area will significantly benefit from some integrated storage and stylish shelving.
Decorate the BBQ Area
Now, this is the fun part of creating a BBQ area. You can experiment with various features and design elements as long as the space allows. But be sure to avoid clutter by using multifunctional items. Some decorative ideas include:
- Plants
- Lighting
- Flower centrepieces
- BBQ picnic banners
Add Outdoor Furniture
Creating plenty of seating options will make the BBQ area functional. Outdoor furniture also allows you to decorate with different fabrics and textures. Add some outdoor chairs, a sofa, and an extra-long dining table for large spaces.
You could also explore patio dining sets that are foldable for easy storage. While you’re at it, don’t skimp on style.
Up the Ambiance with Lighting
Good outdoor lighting can transform the look and feel of your space, especially at night and during cold winter months. You can create a warm atmosphere with hanging lights or a glowing table lamp. Lanterns positioned at different heights will give a gorgeous look. You’ll also need a few task-lighting for cooking at night.
Consider Sheltering the Area
If you want your BBQ to be used all year round, consider covering your BBQ area. You could build a pergola around it. This wooden structure gives your BBQ area character and turns it into a room without walls. Alternatively, you can go for the traditional timber gazebos.
Conclusion
All you need to have a BBQ area is an outdoor space and a grill. But there are several things you can do to spruce up the space, thus making it functional and beautiful. By incorporating some of the above ideas, your backyard will become the go-to spot for you and your loved ones to enjoy an outdoor meal.
