Ce qu'il fait
UNCO BBQ is a space-saving, dual-function balcony barbecue that doubles as an outdoor coffee table. It offers a smoke-free, odorless grilling experience, making urban cooking neighbor-friendly while encouraging healthy, social outdoor living.
Votre source d'inspiration
During COVID, confined urban living made it clear how limited private outdoor space truly is. Balconies became essential for fresh air, socializing, and even cooking...yet traditional barbecues caused smoke, odors, and tension with neighbors. There was clearly a need for a solution that respected shared environments while enhancing well-being. The idea for UNCO BBQ came from this shift: creating a multifunctional product that brings people together safely, supports healthier eating habits, and maximizes small spaces with smart, modern design.
Comment ça marche
UNCO BBQ combines a compact electric grill with a functional coffee table, designed specifically for small urban balconies. When in use, the tabletop splits open to reveal a grilling surface beneath, made with non-stick ceramic plates and an integrated smokeless ventilation system that filters out odors and smoke. This allows for clean, neighbor-friendly cooking without open flames or charcoal. Heat is distributed evenly through embedded heating coils, and the temperature can be adjusted using a simple dial interface. Each part of the barbecue can be removed and is dishwasher-friendly. When not in use, the top slides back into place, transforming the unit into a nice, weather-resistant coffee table. Hidden handles and foldable legs make it easy to clean and store, while the durable casing and minimalist design ensure it fits perfectly into any outdoor setting.
Processus de conception
The UNCO BBQ design process began with user research during the COVID lockdowns, where I observed how balconies became key living spaces. Interviews and surveys revealed a strong desire for outdoor cooking, especially without the smoke, mess, or bulk of traditional barbecues. I started with sketches exploring dual-purpose furniture and compact grill systems. The first prototype was made from cardboard to test dimensions and user interaction. Then built I 3d printed a mock-up with a removable grill plate, drawer, body and side tray tablets to simulate transformation between table and barbecue. Early tests instability. To improve, I integrated locking mechanisms to secure the tabletop in both modes. Throughout, I focused on space efficiency, safety, and ease of use, resulting in a product that adapts to modern urban lifestyles.The next step would be developing the fan + carbon filter.
En quoi est-il différent ?
Unlike traditional barbecues that are bulky, smoky, and purely functional, UNCO BBQ offers a clean, electric grilling experience that’s smoke-free and odorless, which is perfect for closed urban environments. What makes it truly unique is its ability to transform into an outdoor coffee table when not in use, blending into your outdoor decor instead of disrupting it. While many grills focus solely on performance, UNCO BBQ prioritizes space, aesthetics, and social connection. Its minimalist design hides advanced features like a built-in ventilation systems. It isn’t just a grill, it's truly a lifestyle upgrade that supports healthier, more considerate urban living.
Plans pour l'avenir
The next step is to refine UNCO BBQ’s design through further prototyping and user testing, focusing on improving functionality, safety, and material efficiency. I aim to collaborate with engineers to explore feasibility and production methods. In the near future, I hope to showcase UNCO BBQ in competitions to gain visibility and feedback. Long term, I’d love to develop a small production run, potentially through grants or crowdfunding, and connect with mentors or incubators to help bring UNCO BBQ to market. My goal is to continue learning while creating thoughtful, sustainable solutions for real urban living challenges.
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