Public Barbecues and Placemaking: How Christie Barbecues Build Community and Transform Public Spaces

Australia's iconic public barbecues, invented by Christie Barbecues, play a vital role in urban placemaking by turning outdoor spaces into social hubs. Celebrating 60 years of innovation this year, Christie has been central to creating communal outdoor spaces that foster connection, promote inclusivity, and enhance the quality of life in public environments.

Connecting Communities Through Design

Christie Barbecues have long been more than just cooking appliances. Found in public areas across Australia and internationally, these barbecues are key to encouraging social interaction and community building.

Founded in 1965 by David “Sandy” Alexander Christie, the company revolutionised outdoor cooking by introducing the first community coin-operated electric barbecue in 1974. This simple yet effective design addressed safety and environmental concerns while promoting social connection.

Communal barbecues continue to serve as a focal point for community gatherings. A recent survey found that 83% of Australians believe public barbecues help them meet others, and 97% agree they’re crucial for bringing people together. For architects and urban designers, this data highlights the importance of integrating such features into public spaces, fostering interactions and a sense of belonging.

Designing for Durability and Inclusion

Christie Barbecues are a model of thoughtful design. Their modular barbecue cabinets, introduced in 1997, were built to withstand Australia’s harsh conditions, ensuring long-term use in public  paces. Christie has also prioritised safety and accessibility with wheelchair-friendly models and eco-friendly materials, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and sustainability.

In addition, Christie has embraced modern technology with energy-efficient, smart cooktops that align with contemporary demands for sustainability and user-focused design. These innovations  ensure that public barbecues remain relevant and functional in today’s urban environment.

Public BBQs as Social Hubs

Christie barbecues are more than just cooking stations. They are tools for creating dynamic public spaces. These communal cooking facilities turn shared spaces in parks, universities, aged care facilities, beaches, and high-rise buildings into lively meeting points, offering opportunities for people to connect over a shared meal. Whether it’s a family gathering, a group of friends, or neighbours meeting for the first time, public barbecues help strengthen social ties and create a sense of community.

By making outdoor cooking more accessible, Christie Barbecues enhance the quality of public spaces and contribute to the overall experience of urban life. They support not just casual gatherings but the creation of meaningful social interactions that form the heart of great places.

Christie’s Global Impact

Christie Barbecues have expanded beyond Australia, with over 50,000 units sold globally and installations at major international events like the Dubai World Expo. This growth shows how public  barbecues can contribute to placemaking on a global scale, providing spaces that promote interaction and connection in diverse urban environments.

As cities become more urbanised and multicultural, the need for inclusive, sustainable spaces will grow. Christie’s commitment to designing adaptable, energy-efficient barbecues ensures they will continue to play a key role in shaping the future of public spaces.

Simple Design, Big Impact

For architects and urban designers, Christie Barbecues demonstrate how thoughtful infrastructure can transform public spaces. These barbecues aren’t just functional but powerful tools for community building and placemaking. As urban areas evolve, Christie’s designs will remain essential in creating inclusive, vibrant spaces that unite people.

This article featured in the Autumn '25 edition of BIMCRUNCH Australia. Enjoy the full magazine here. To explore further or to download BIM objects from Christie Barbecues, simply join Bimstore for free access to their products and accompanying literature. For additional insights, visit their manufacturer profile on Bimstore, their company website or socials.