How to design the perfect barbecue area as an alternative to the outdoor kitchen
The smell of freshly grilled food, the gentle sizzle on the grill - barbecuing is a true art that is simply part of summer. After all, what could be better than spending a relaxing time outdoors with friends and family and enjoying delicious dishes from the barbecue together? It's not just about the food, but also about the atmosphere, and this is where the barbecue area plays a not insignificant role. In this blog post, we show you how to design the ideal barbecue area and what to look out for to create unforgettable memories. With our simple tips, you can turn your own barbecue area into a small oasis of well-being and create a cost-effective alternative to the outdoor kitchens that are currently so popular.
- Deciding on a barbecue
a. Charcoal barbecue
b. Gas barbecue
c. Electric barbecue - Must-Haves of a functional barbecue area
a. Canopy and sun protection
b. Working area
c. Storage space
d. Water and electricity
e. Seating - Storage space solutions for the outdoor kitchen
a. Storage cupboard
b. Rolling shutter box
c. Cushions box
d. Garden shed
Having your own outdoor kitchen is the dream of many barbecue fans, but unfortunately it can also be very expensive. Fortunately, there are inexpensive alternatives to create a functional and visually appealing barbecue area that fulfils all needs and makes barbecue fans' hearts beat faster.
Preparations for the ideal barbecue area
The thorough planning of the barbecue area plays a really important role in creating a place where you can enjoy spending time and savouring the barbecue and subsequent meal to the full. The ideal barbecue area should fulfil a number of requirements. Not too shady, but not too sunny either, so that it doesn't get too hot in midsummer. Ideally, you should choose a spot that is as sheltered from the wind as possible so that the barbecue area is particularly inviting. You also need a flat patch of ground so that everything can be placed and set up properly. It would be particularly ideal if the barbecue area also has a water and electricity connection so that you don't have to run back into the house or kitchen for every little thing.
Choosing a location for the barbecue area
If you can choose a location for the barbecue area and are not restricted in terms of space, you should look for a sunny to semi-shady spot in the garden. Ideally, it should face west so that you can enjoy the glorious afternoon sun and the sunset to the full. Ideally, there should be enough space for the barbecue, a cosy table with seating, sufficient storage space and a few plants and decorations. The more cosy and well thought-out your own barbecue area is, the more enjoyable and relaxed you will be able to spend your time there. The flooring should be made of weatherproof and, above all, non-slip material.
Choosing a barbecue
When it comes to choosing a barbecue, it all depends on your own preferences. To make the decision a little easier, we have summarised some information about different barbecues:
Charcoal barbecue
The charcoal barbecue is undoubtedly the classic favourite among barbecuers. Many people already have the popular kettle barbecue at home. As the charcoal used has to reach the right temperature for grilling, you need to plan a certain amount of lead time for this type of barbecue before the delicious food is placed on the grill. But then you also get the typical smoky barbecue flavour! The charcoal required for barbecuing must be stored in a dry place and ideally you should always have a small supply of charcoal at home - you should bear this in mind in advance when planning the storage space for your barbecue area.
Gas barbecue
A gas barbecue impresses with its minimal smoke development on the one hand and its immediate readiness for use on the other. Compared to charcoal barbecues, it also enables more precise temperature control. The gas barbecue is operated using a gas cylinder, which must be stored safely and in accordance with regulations - this should ideally also be taken into account in advance when planning the barbecue area.
Electric barbecue
Electric barbecues also produce little smoke, which could potentially disturb the neighbours. In addition, the models are usually very compact, which can be an advantage in confined spaces. As with gas barbecues, the temperature of electric barbecues can also be regulated quickly and easily. The disadvantage of electric barbecues is that you definitely need a permanent power connection or a suitable extension cable.
Must-haves for a functional barbecue area
What does a functional outdoor barbecue area need to include? Of course, ideas vary depending on individual preferences and needs, but here are some basic elements that can be included in a well-equipped barbecue area.
Roofing and sun protection
A roof is a particularly good idea so that you can barbecue in any weather and, above all, protect the food and barbecue accessories from all weathers. It protects against moisture, storms or hail and also provides pleasant protection from the sun on warm days. There are many different options, depending on your personal taste and style. Pinterest can serve as a great source of inspiration here.
A practical solution for all owners of a Biohort shed from the HighLine or Neo series is definitely a side canopy, which can be purchased as an accessory. It is available in a wide range of sizes and colours, can be attached directly to the shed on one or both sides and provides the perfect roof for the outdoor barbecue area. In the event of bad weather, the side canopy is also equipped with a practical rain gutter so that rainwater can be optimally drained away.
Work surface
A sufficiently large work surface next to the barbecue is important for preparing food and dishes, cutting ingredients or simply for setting out crockery. A robust worktop made of weatherproof material is ideal for this, as it can withstand any weather and is also easy to clean.
Water and electricity
If possible, it is an immense advantage to have a water and electricity connection at the outdoor barbecue area. Access to water in the self-designed outdoor kitchen not only has the advantage that you can clean the grill grate and various barbecue utensils directly at the barbecue area, but you can also carry out tasks such as washing vegetables or washing dishes directly on site without having to leave the barbecue area. This saves time and travel.
A water and electricity connection at the barbecue area also opens up further possibilities, such as installing a drinks cooler or lighting. Outdoor loudspeakers or sound boxes can also be installed at the barbecue area for additional entertainment and a cosy atmosphere.
Storage space
A barbecue area should have sufficient storage space to store barbecue utensils such as barbecue cutlery, charcoal, cleaning products or seat covers. Here, too, it makes sense to use weather-resistant materials so that you can enjoy it for a long time. An elegant metal storage locker or a versatile roller shutter box for the garden can be the perfect storage solution. It is particularly practical if the storage options can be opened from the top or side so that you have quick access to the desired item.
The HighBoard, the StoreMax or the Romeo patio locker, for example, are perfect storage solutions for the outdoor barbecue area. They can also be locked and therefore offer protection against unauthorised access.
Seating
In order to use the barbecue area as an outdoor relaxation and dining area, comfortable seating should be provided. It is best to opt for high-quality, weatherproof outdoor furniture for the tables, chairs and benches so that they can be left outside all summer long and, above all, remain beautiful for years to come. With comfortable cushions and the right table decorations, this area at the barbecue area becomes a real oasis of well-being.
Storage space solutions for the outdoor kitchen
Probably the smartest tip when it comes to storage space solutions: plan in enough storage space ;-) It's not just in the cold season that you want to protect items in the garden or on the patio from the wind and weather. Even in summer, items such as barbecue charcoal or seat covers should be stored well protected so that they don't get wet and possibly even break. Using a perfectly customised storage solution as a barbecue garage is an excellent idea and option for this. Our storage solutions are characterised by their high quality, functionality and particularly attractive design. They are designed to meet the requirements of the outdoor area and enable safe and tidy storage.
Please note that the Biohort StoreMax may only be used for storing the grill.
Storage cabinet
The Biohort HighBoard is ideal for the outdoor barbecue area. The elegant storage cabinet made of high-quality metal is the all-rounder for storage. The convenient lid and door opening allows quick access to the stored items. The interior of the outdoor cabinet can be used as required. A great solution, for example, is to attach a half-sided shelf on which you can store barbecue accessories such as barbecue cutlery or charcoal. The other half of the cabinet can be used to store a weatherproof kettle barbecue, for example. Like all other Biohort products, the storage cabinet can of course also be left outside during the winter. This makes the HighBoard the perfect barbecue garage with practical, additional storage space.
Roller shutter box
A roller shutter box, such as the Biohort StoreMax, is ideal for anyone looking for a particularly space-saving storage solution. The easy-glide roller shutters made of coated aluminium cannot rust or weather and therefore remain ready for use for a long time. The box is perfect for storing smaller items at the outdoor barbecue area.
Cushion box
The garden boxes from Biohort are ideal for storing garden cushions, seat covers and other outdoor accessories. But they can also be used to store all kinds of barbecue utensils, charcoal and much more in a practical and, above all, weatherproof way. The boxes are particularly easy to open and have a gas pressure spring for convenient access to the storage space. Thanks to the integrated, invisible ventilation slot in the boxes, effective air circulation inside is guaranteed. This is a great advantage, especially when storing textiles such as cushions or seat covers.
Garden shed
Biohort sheds are spacious storage solutions for the outdoor area and are the perfect solution for anyone who has more space available and likes things to be particularly tidy. They offer plenty of space and, in addition to garden furniture, other bulky items such as barbecues, parasols and other accessories from the barbecue area can be easily and conveniently stored and stowed away. The sheds are available in various sizes and colours and can be adapted to individual requirements. In combination with a practical side canopy, a covered seating and/or barbecue area can be set up right next to the shed.
If you take all these functional components into account and embellish the new barbecue area with a little decoration and a few plants, you have created a wonderful feel-good outdoor space. So you can enjoy the summer at home to the full. We wish you a relaxing and unforgettable time barbecuing!