The smell of grilling kebabs, the taste of a burger hot off the barbecue, the great excuse to remain outside on a nice day: Grilling is one of life’s simple pleasures. How do you make it even better? Create a patio or deck area that feels like a vacation in your own backyard. Here are a few tips:

1. Kick off your shoes
Select tiles, stone or wood flooring material for your patio that feels nice under bare feet. Remember to choose a material that won’t get dangerously slippery when wet.

2. Appoint a place to prep
Transform your grill into an outdoor kitchen by adding dedicated prep space for the cook. Consider adding a simple high table, a prefab island with heated and cooled drawers, or a complete built-in setup with a sink and fridge.

3. Protect your guests
Canopies and umbrellas are an easy way to make sure your guests don’t fry while you grill.

4. Light your night
Strategic lighting can help create a cozy ambience. Tiki torches, strings of tiny lights, lanterns and candles can all help paint a mood. A few citronella candles will keep the bugs away.

5. Furnish for comfort
Choose outdoor furniture that’s comfy, not just stylish. If you have metal chairs, splurge for cushy pillows. Not only will they help keep your guests happy, they’re an easy way to add color to your outdoor living area.

6. Let your drinks chill
Whether it’s a giant bucket of ice, a wheeled cooler or a built-in mini fridge, having a place to stash drinks cuts back on annoying trips to the kitchen.

Looking for a home with a great spot to grill? Contact me!