An outdoor BBQ area is more than just a place to cook – it’s where family and friends come together to relax, celebrate and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re planning a simple BBQ nook or a fully equipped outdoor kitchen beneath a custom pergola, thoughtful design can make your space more practical, comfortable and enjoyable throughout the year.
Here are five ways to create an outdoor BBQ area that’s both functional and beautiful.
Consider the material
Your BBQ area should be comfortable enough for your guests without any risk of slipping or getting hurt. From the outdoor decking to the surfaces, choose a material that ensures safety but doesn’t compromise on aesthetics or budget.
The table below shows some common deck design options for BBQ areas:
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Brick | Attractive appearance and low maintenance | Can become uneven over time and is generally more expensive |
| Concrete | Durable, versatile and cost-effective | Can feel cold underfoot and is best installed professionally |
| Stone or Granite | Premium finish with excellent durability | Higher upfront cost and may require sealing depending on the product |
| Timber Decking | Warm appearance, comfortable underfoot and timeless style | Requires periodic cleaning and sealing |
| Outdoor Tiles | Wide range of colours, styles and finishes | Some finishes may become slippery when wet |
Remember to choose a material that blends with the rest of your home. You can use the same material for the flooring and countertops or mix it up – for example, timber on the deck and stone or granite for the surfaces.
Choose a design
The layout of your BBQ area will not only affect how comfortable your guests are but will also influence how easy a day of hosting is for you.
For instance, if you have an outdoor kitchen, you may consider adding the BBQ as an extension to save you going back and forth between the kitchen and the BBQ.
If you have a large backyard space, you may want to place the grill as far away from the sitting area as possible so your guests can eat and drink uninterrupted by the food preparation or smoke.
If you’re incorporating a pergola into your BBQ area, think about how the roof design, lighting, fans and storage will work together. A well-designed pergola helps create a weather-protected alfresco area that can be enjoyed throughout the seasons, while also making the outdoor kitchen feel like a natural extension of your home.
Choose a layout
Your layout will depend on your:
- Space
- The volume of traffic
- Design theme
To improve the ease of use, make the transition from the house to the BBQ as seamless as possible. For instance, position the seating areas so that you don’t have to make any awkward turns and can simply integrate with your guests.
It’s also a great idea to have your sitting area facing a focal point of your garden with a beautiful view. Increase the ‘wow’ factor with a water feature, sculpture or glorious greenery.
Planning your entertaining area around the way you cook, serve and socialise will help you create a more enjoyable outdoor space for everyday family meals and larger gatherings alike.
Include practical equipment
Your BBQ area should come fitted with features that make it easy and convenient to use. For instance, include a large sink that gives you ample space to wash vegetables or hands (and saves you dripping through the house).
Consider adding drawers and enough storage space to keep the area looking neat and organised, saving you on time and stress. You may also consider adding a small fridge to keep drinks cool for your guests.
Invest in quality utensils
It’s also important to get a quality BBQ grill, seats, and other utensils that give your space an upmarket feel. Ensure that even the smallest of utensils accentuate your space.
Creating a practical and beautiful outdoor BBQ area starts with choosing the right materials, planning a functional layout and designing a space that suits the way you love to entertain. Whether you’re adding a simple BBQ zone or a fully equipped outdoor kitchen beneath a custom pergola, the right design can transform the way you use your backyard.
Book a free on-site consultation with the team at Pergola Land and let us help you create an outdoor entertaining area that’s designed for your home and lifestyle.
For Further Inspiration…
> How to Choose the Right Materials for Your New Deck