The rise of communal barbecues in urban placemaking
Communal barbecues are becoming an essential part of urban life in Australian cities. They’re not just for cooking. These shared spaces help create vibrant, welcoming environments where people can connect and enjoy the outdoors.
Why shared public spaces matter
As Australian cities grow, more people live in apartments and busy areas. By 2025, Australia’s major cities will have more than 20 million residents, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. With less room indoors and fewer personal outdoor spaces, cities are looking for ways to design public areas that encourage interaction and foster a sense of belonging. Communal barbecues are among the best solutions – they provide an opportunity to socialise, relax, celebrate, and promote community bonds.
Barbecues as community builders
Like seating areas, restrooms, and playgrounds in public spaces, communal barbecues are essential to placemaking. They create spaces that draw people in, promote socialising, and help shape a community’s identity. These barbecue areas are more than just functional; they’ve become social hubs in parks, beaches, and public plazas. Research shows these spaces encourage social interaction, improve mental health, and help people feel more connected to their communities. Communal barbecues are central to daily life, whether for a casual get-together, a celebration, or just enjoying good weather.
Designing for everyone and the environment
Good placemaking means creating spaces that are sustainable and accessible for everyone. When designing communal barbecue facilities, planners focus on making them accessible to people of all abilities to ensure everyone can enjoy these spaces – regardless of age or mobility.
Sustainability is another key consideration. Modern communal barbecues must be made from eco-friendly materials and use energy-efficient heating technology. By promoting shared resources like these barbecues, cities can help reduce individual energy use, lower carbon footprints, and support a more environmentally friendly way of living.
The future of communal barbecues
As cities grow and change, communal barbecues will play an even more significant role in building connected, thriving communities. They’re no longer just cooking stations but essential tools for socialising, creating accessibility, and promoting sustainability. Communal barbecues are becoming necessary to urban spaces, helping people connect, feel at home, and build stronger communities.