Learn how to integrate a kitchen with a barbecue and create ideal gourmet projects to host friends and family.
Submitted at Jun 25, 2025, 1:04 PM
Mustard yellow and blue give personality to a 2,447 sq ft apartment. Project by Tetriz Architecture. In the photo, a balcony with a grill and pink cabinetry. (Renato Navarro)
The integrated barbecue kitchen is one of the most desired trends in contemporary interior design projects. Combining meal preparation with the pleasure of a barbecue transforms the projects into a true center of socializing, ideal for those who enjoy hosting. Whether in houses with backyards, apartments with gourmet balconies, or covered outdoor areas, this configuration offers practicality, comfort, and a lot of style.
Churrasqueira Gourmet Criare, projeto de Mariana Paula Souza para a CASACOR Paraná 2021. (Eduardo Macarios/CASACOR)
In addition to catering to the Brazilian taste — great lovers of a good barbecue —, this integration promotes circulation between spaces, adds value to the property, and allows for greater interaction between those cooking and the guests. However, for this proposal to work well, planning is necessary: from the choice of materials to the definition of ventilation, every detail influences the functionality and aesthetics of the projects.
Cobertura de 400 m² feita para gêmeos é repleta de design e tecnologia. Projeto de Tom Castro. Na foto, espaço gourmet com churrasqueira e piscina. (Raiana Medina/CASACOR)
Before thinking about decoration, it is essential to understand how the integration between the barbecue and the kitchen will be done. In houses, it is common for this space to be in a covered outdoor area or at the back of the lot. In apartments, the gourmet balcony usually takes on this role. The important thing is that the barbecue is close to the sink, the support counter, and, if possible, the stove or cooktop, facilitating the preparation of different dishes at the same time.
Another essential point is to anticipate the circulation between the furniture. The preparation area should be organized in a fluid manner, allowing easy access to utensils and avoiding unnecessary movements. In small kitchens, it is worth investing in custom solutions and planned furniture. In spacious projects, creating an island or central counter can serve as a support point for the grillers and also serve as a dining area.
Projeto Escala Arquitetura (Fotos: André Nazareth / Produção: Andrea Falchi/CASACOR)
As the barbecue generates heat and smoke, it is essential to choose durable materials that are easy to clean to compose this space. Ceramic coverings, porcelain tiles, natural stones, and quartz surfaces are good options for counters and floors. Avoid porous surfaces, such as natural wood or raw concrete, especially near the fire, as they can stain or be damaged over time.
For the wall covering near the barbecue, it is ideal to invest in materials that combine practicality and aesthetics. Metro tiles, hydraulic tiles, exposed bricks, or even hexagonal tiles — a strong trend in decoration — can bring charm and personality without compromising functionality.
Projeto de Mariana Leal. (Edgard Cesar/Divulgação)
The integration between the kitchen and the barbecue requires special attention to ventilation and smoke control. A well-dimensioned hood or exhaust fan is fundamental to keep the air clean and to avoid odors being absorbed by furniture and fabrics. In open projects, such as balconies, natural air circulation helps significantly, but even in these cases, using a chimney or metal duct may be necessary to ensure greater comfort.
Another important consideration is the placement of the barbecue. It should be kept away from flammable materials, such as curtains, and also from heat-sensitive appliances. Ideally, one should seek the help of a professional during the design phase to ensure all technical and safety aspects are covered, especially when it comes to gas or electric barbecues.
Projeto de Paiva e Passarini Arquitetura. (Xavier Neto/CASACOR)
With the technical aspects resolved, it's time to think about decoration. The integrated barbecue kitchen is also a social space, so it is worth investing in elements that bring warmth and style. Counters with stools, generous tables, comfortable chairs, and proper lighting transform the projects into an invitation for relaxed gatherings.
In terms of aesthetics, the projects can follow different proposals: from rustic with wood and exposed bricks to contemporary with neutral surfaces and brushed metals. Potted plants, pendants with warm light, spice niches, and a good china cabinet or wine cellar also help to compose the gourmet atmosphere.
To top it off, it's possible to install a TV, an embedded sound system, or even an ecological fireplace for the cold days. The idea is for the space to go beyond the function of cooking: to become a meeting point, a socializing space, and a pleasure zone.
CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.
