Summer is the season of BBQing, and it’s a great idea to set up a space for family get-togethers and spending all day outdoors. There’s no better time than now to set up your deck, patio, or backyard for all the fun. Check out our brief guide to learn some deck design tips for summer BBQs.
Set Up a Grilling Station
Having the perfect grilling station is essential for summer BBQs. Start by choosing the right grill to handle your cooking needs and fit in your available space. Once you have chosen a grill, select accessories such as utensils, thermometers, and other items. Safety should always be a priority when grilling on a deck. Keep kids away from the area while cooking and use proper safety measures to prevent fires. Designate a place near your grill to store your supplies so that you can easily access them when needed.
Create a Dining Area
Next, you’ll need somewhere to sit and enjoy the BBQ feast. When planning an outdoor dining area, you’ll need to consider the size of your patio or deck and the number of people you would like to seat comfortably. A large table with chairs or benches will work best if you have the space.
If you have a smaller space, consider using bistro-style pieces. Then, you can add decorations and accessories that fit into your style. Don’t forget about storage solutions—keep items close at hand with a small sideboard or bench tucked under one end of the table. This element will provide a place to store platters, napkins, and other dinnerware while freeing up tabletop real estate.
Add Outdoor Lighting
If your BBQ party stretches late into the summer evenings, you’ll want to add some lighting so that you can enjoy the festivities all night. There are several fun ideas for deck railing lighting that you can implement. Installing string lights is one of the most popular and easy ways to add outdoor lighting because they come in various colors, shapes, and sizes. If you want more light than string lights offer, you can install spotlights around your patio or deck to provide additional illumination for nighttime activities.
Include Entertainment Options
Of course, no BBQ is complete without some good entertainment. Adding music to your outdoor space is a great way to create an enjoyable atmosphere for entertaining guests. Consider installing speakers around your deck so that you can easily control the volume and play any music you like.
For those who want to take their entertainment up a notch, adding games such as cornhole and horseshoes will give everyone something fun and competitive to do while enjoying the outdoors. If movies are more your thing, set up an area with comfortable seating where family and friends can gather for outdoor movie nights under the stars.
Now that you know how to create the ideal deck design for summer BBQs, you can use these strategies today. Don’t be afraid to personalize your space with additional decor to make it more unique.