Now that the weather is heating up, it’s a great time to get out there and cook some stuff over an open flame! Carrington Oaks offers community grills our residents are free to use any time, but if you’re thinking of using your own private patio or balcony, this guide will help you turn it into the ultimate outdoor hangout space.

Choose Your Weapon

If you don’t already have a grill, you’ll need to decide what cooking method you prefer. Charcoal imbues your food with a delicious smoky flavor, but there’s no such thing as quickly throwing something on the grill with briquettes – you need plenty of time to get the coals going before you can do any cooking. Charcoal is also messier. Propane has the advantage of being quicker, easier, and possibly safer. Many electric grills also work surprisingly well. This one from Weber is a popular choice.  

Add Some Seating

Even if you’re planning to do your eating indoors, you’ll need space for assistant grillmasters and their hangers-on. Consider some slim seating and a snack table that can double as a holder for grilling goods and tools, like this sectional bench and table from Wayfair. Everyone will have a place to park it, and you can do your thing while you entertain. 

Brighten Things Up

Your balcony or patio likely comes with a light source, but that lighting probably lacks your desired ambiance. Instead, consider stringing up some large LED string lights, like these ones from Amazon. You can run them around the circumference of your space or zigzag them across the ceiling, and they provide the ideal warmth and charm to your area. You may need additional light for your grilling duties, though. These adjustable magnetic grill lights are just the thing!

Stay Hydrated

Working the grill is a hot job, but somebody’s got to do it! Fortunately, there are some easy ways to stay hydrated. You could keep an insulated bottle of ice-cold water by your side, or you could wear a classic beer-guzzler helmet, like this one on Amazon. 

Now that you’ve got your grilling station all set up, it’s time to get cooking! For more tips on celebrating the season in style, check out the Carrington Oaks blog.