Warm-Up Fireside: Which outdoor fire feature is right for you?
Gathering around to warm up or dry off, roasting marshmallows, telling stories, and laughing with friends and family, there’s just something about sitting fireside that brings people together. When adding a fire feature to your backyard landscape, there’s a lot to consider, from style to fueling method and even location. Find out what works for you and incorporate a fire feature into your outdoor area that highlights your unique taste and enhances your landscape design. Here are just a few fire feature options to explore:
The Wood-Burning Fire Pit
There’s nothing quite like the classic aroma of a wood-burning fire pit. Some people hate the smokey smell while others live for it. If you’re one of the latter and are looking for a permanent feature in your outdoor space, a built-in wood-burning fire pit is for you. Customize the look of your design in shape and size with pavers and retaining walls that suit your seating area by selecting materials in your preferred colors and textures. This classic design requires a little more maintenance when it comes to set-up and clean-up, but nothing beats the campsite-like nostalgia of throwing another log on the fire.
The Gas-Fueled Fire Pit
The ease of lighting a gas fire pit is the prime benefit for the outdoor entertainer as there is no need to worry about keeping dry firewood on-hand and getting the flame lit. With a gas-fueled fire pit, lighting is simple with a twist of the fuel valve and a lighter. Plus, the gas-fueled fire pit provides a bit more flexibility in size and shape selection. Choose the organic look of circular retaining walls or opt for more perimeter space with pavers set in a square or rectangular design. Whether center stage in your landscape design or off in a cozy corner, a gas-fueled built-in fire feature will create effortlessly cozy outdoor gatherings year-round. A slight smell of natural gas can occur as it burns, which can deter some people.
The Outdoor Fireplace
If the rugged nature of an outdoor fire pit isn’t your thing, then consider elevating your backyard design with a luxurious outdoor fireplace. This option is safe, tidy, and provides a sophisticated ambiance to your outdoor areas while still allowing access to an open flame for toasting up snacks. Plus, an outdoor fireplace can be built under a covered structure allowing for use in all weather. Craft a full outdoor living room by placing a seating area near your fireplace with a TV above the mantle or near an outdoor bar for ultimate relaxation with all of your necessities in arms reach. Depending on your preference, you can opt for wood-burning or gas-fueled functionality.
The Portable Option
There are plenty of portable fire pit options to use in your outdoor spaces if a built-in isn’t for you, but this stainless steel one from Solo Stove certainly adds a sophisticated touch.
The look of this fire feature can add a modern accent to a flowing back yard landscape or further enhance the sleek lines of a contemporary design. It also is relatively light and can be moved around as you please. Not to mention the internal features of this little guy make it smokeless thanks to mechanics that create airflow in the underbelly of the pit, so there’s no moving your seat as the winds change to avoid smoke.
Now that we’ve laid out the basics, which fire feature is calling your name? If you’re ready to explore options to enhance your outdoor oasis with a fire feature, give the Pros a call or begin a walk-through by providing us with a virtual tour of your space.
