A dedicated space to prepare food and store barbecue equipment makes it easier to cook and entertain outdoors.
Check out the creative ways Bunnings Workshop community members have turned their barbecue into an attractive feature of their backyards and let us know if you need a hand building your own.
1. Barbecue entertaining area with pergola by @sandy_d
Sandy created this unique barbecue bench using pallet timber, cement countertops and spoons as handles.
2. Outdoor barbecue workbench by @DesRigby
Experienced community member Des built a portable barbecue bench using Rack It modular storage and a bamboo benchtop.
3. Rustic entertaining area with built-in barbecue by @sideshowmatt
Workshop member Matt used recycled materials to create a rustic barbecue bench and outdoor entertaining space.
4. Barbecue stand with dog kennel by @Kirk101
A timber barbecue stand with built-in dog kennel for a new deck.
5. Built-in barbecue bench by @Jimi
Jimi constructed this weather-proof barbecue bench with built-in bar fridge using timber, blueboard and cement.
6. Built-in barbecue with planters by @kel
Workshop member Judy created this barbecue bench with cabinet storage and planters.
7. Fold-up timber barbecue table by @GeoffB
Geoff built this two-tone timber table with plenty of space to prepare food for barbecuing and it easily folds up when not in use.
8. Recycled timber barbecue cabinet by @She_Skills
Meg used a stainless steel top from a food preparation bench and recycled timber to create this industrial-style barbecue stand.
9. Garage storage used for barbecue by @vh108
Bunnings Workshop community member @vh108 used garage storage cabinets for their barbecue.
10. Built-in barbecue by @Dbanger
A built-in barbecue unit built using Formply and clad with Merbau decking boards.
Want to take your barbecue to the next level and install a full outdoor kitchen? Get inspiration from the clever and creative Workshop community with our collection of Outdoor kitchen ideas for your home.
Bunnings Workshop community members have also shared plenty of great advice for preparing a barbecue and cooking. Don't miss these guides:
With number 2, the rack it modular project, there's an additional shelf attached on the right. What's that called? I can't seem to find it under the rack it category on the Bunnings website.
Thanks,
Claudia
Hello @claudiagiordano
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's wonderful to have you join us.
I've had a thorough search on the Bunnings website and the supplier's website, I'm sorry but that particular shelf part is no longer available. I've even tried to look for a compatible part that will do the same function. The only other option to duplicate the side shelf is to build it from timber and use a nut and bolt system to keep it attached to the Rack It set.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
I started thinking about DIY BBQ and outdoor kitchens but became aware that there are fairly stringent rules for design, use of non-flammable construction materials and provision of cabinet ventilation. Would a compliance failure void any insurance claim resulting from a fire?
You’re right to be thinking carefully about this @Bandicoot, because any built-in or enclosed gas appliance does have strict safety requirements. Most inbuilt barbecues will provide detailed guidance on setbacks from combustible materials, and these need to be followed closely. Typically, that means maintaining an air gap between the barbecue and any timber framing, or using non-combustible materials such as compressed fibro board to separate them. Ideally, it’s a combination of both an air gap and a non-combustible layer.
Cabinet ventilation is also important, especially if you’re storing a gas bottle. Any enclosure containing a gas cylinder must be well ventilated to prevent gas build-up. In terms of insurance, whether a non-compliant installation would void a claim is something you would need to clarify directly with your provider, because it can vary by policy. The safest approach is to select the barbecue you want first, then contact the supplier for their specific guidance on clearances, materials, and ventilation. Once you have that, you can design your cabinetry to meet all the requirements and be confident that it’s both safe and compliant. If you're not confident in doing so it might be best to enlist the services of a professional.
An alternative to constructing your own cabinetry would be to consider a pre-built outdoor kitchen unit, which has been designed with safety in mind.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
