Caxton magazines staffBeauty and braai areas are not a natural combination but this lovely veranda, designed by Leigh Went of Belong Interiors in Durban, gets the balance between practicality and decor just right
Here are five tips for creating a similar stylish braai area:
1. Choose a built-in braai
A built-in braai looks neat and is also very practical as it can incorporate a chimney ensuring that smoke is funnelled away from the seating area. This sleek, contemporary braai from Multibraai makes a statement with its gleaming finish.
2. Ensure there is space to store wood or charcoal or disguise a gas bottle
In this braai area, the wood store becomes an attractive feature in a purpose-built nook.
3. Include a work surface
Built-in counters on either side of the braai provides plenty of space to prepare food and store utensils. A well-placed table like a tall cocktail table would function just as well.
4. Decorate
Furnisher and accessories take this braai area from boring to beautiful. Mount artwork on the wall, add lanterns and a pot plant to make it feel like an extension of the living area. The accessories here are from Belong Interiors.
5. Provide seating
Include plenty of comfortable seating so that the braai masters don’t feel excluded. The stools on either side of the braai invite guests to pull up a seat and chat to the host. Leigh included several small stools which double as side tables or extra seating for large gatherings.
