Create Your Dream Backyard Around a Fire Pit with These Tips and Tricks
If you're looking to add a bit of extra warmth and ambiance to your backyard, consider adding a fire pit! They are eye-catching and inviting, but they're also perfect fo r colder evenings. With these easy tips and tricks, you can create the perfect backyard retreat around your own fire pit.
Who wouldn't love to have a perfect backyard oasis? Whether you are looking for a place to relax with friends and family or want a little bit of added ambiance to your outdoor space, we've got you covered! So, pull up a chair, and let's get started.
Tips for Crafting an Outdoor Space Around Fire
Whether you opt for a pre-made fire pit or building your own, these tips will help you create the perfect backyard getaway.
Basics of Backyard Fire Pits
When it comes to fire pits, there are a few things you'll need to take into account before getting started. The first is deciding on the type of fire pit. Are you looking for a table design, bowl, linear, fireplace, traditional, modern, or something custom? The options are endless!
Another critical factor is the size of your fire pit. This will be determined by the amount of space you have in your backyard and how many people you want to fit around it comfortably. Fire tables and bowls are great for smaller, more intimate spaces, whereas fireplaces and custom fire pits can match the scale of expansive yards and accommodate larger gatherings.
Location & Layout
Choosing the right location for your fire pit is vital. You'll want to make sure it's placed far enough away from any structures or trees and a designated area for people to stand or sit. It's also important to consider the wind direction when placing your fire pit. You don't want smoke blowing into people's faces.
If you're going for a contemporary symmetrical design or have a lot of room, don't put the fire pit in the middle of the patio. Offset it to one side rather than in the center. You may balance the design with other prominent elements such as an arbor, tree, water feature, or outdoor bar.
Another critical factor in choosing the right location is the ground. Grass and dirt are not ideal surfaces for fire pits since they can easily catch fire. Instead, opt for concrete or stone patio or another non-flammable surface. It's also a good idea to check if there are any restrictions in your neighborhood or city regarding the location of fire features. As a general rule, place the pit ten feet or more from any structure, especially with wood-burning fire pits. It should be accessible, but not too close to the house.
There are a few things you'll want to keep in mind when it comes to layout. First, consider the shape of your seating area. A curved configuration might be best if you want a more intimate setting. But if you're looking to accommodate a larger group, a straight line or square might be a better option. You'll also want to make sure there is enough space for people to move around comfortably and a clear path to the fire pit.
Seating
Of course, you'll need to consider seating when crafting your outdoor space! There are many different options to choose from, depending on your personal style and the desired look.
- Built-in benches or walls are a great way to define the space and allow for lots of seating.
- Benches are a great option if you're looking for something classic and straightforward. They can be placed around the perimeter of the fire pit or against a wall.
- Chairs are another popular choice and come in various styles, from Adirondack to lounge.
- For a more eclectic look, you could even mix and match different types of seating!
Whichever seating you use, understand the physical footprint of the furniture and plan accordingly to ensure there is ample room to move around safely and comfortably.
Conversation Areas
In addition to the fire pit and seating, you'll also want to create a designated conversation area. It's doubtful that people will sit around the fire pit to eat all the time. For this, you'll need a separate dining area. The goal is to provide a location where individuals can congregate and converse without being too close to the fire.
Build multiple conversation areas around the patio where distinct groups may congregate for more intimate talk. Some individuals will feel at ease choosing a location where they can sit all evening, while others will prefer to flit from zone to zone, chatting with different people throughout the night.
If you want to get creative, you could even use different materials to define the space. For example, you could use gravel or stones to create a border around the conversation area.
You could also use potted plants, trees, or shrubs to create a natural boundary. Just be sure to place them far enough away from the fire, so they don't get singed!
Gas or Wood?
When it comes to fire pits, you have two main fuel options: gas or wood.
Wood-burning pits are the more traditional option and offer a more authentic experience. They're also less expensive than gas models. The downside is that they require more maintenance and effort to get going. You'll need to stock up on wood and make sure it's appropriately seasoned, so it doesn't produce too much smoke. You'll also need to clean out the ashes regularly.
Gas pits are easier to use and require less maintenance. They offer instant flames with a button and don't require you to buy or store wood. The only downside is that they're more expensive than wood-burning pits.
For the best of both worlds, consider LUME , the smoke-less wood-burning fire pit from Firegear. LUME uses innovative technology that produces virtually no smoke so that you can enjoy all the benefits of a wood-burning fire without any of the drawbacks!
No matter which type of fire pit you choose, read the manufacturer's instructions carefully to know how to operate it safely.
Comfort
When it comes to outdoor living spaces, comfort is key! There are a few different ways you can make your space more comfortable.
- First, consider adding some overhead cover like an awning, pergola, or even a few strategically placed trees or shrubs. This covering will provide much-needed shade on hot days, but it will also protect you from rain or snow.
- Another way to add comfort is with outdoor heaters. These come in various shapes and sizes, so you're sure to find one that fits your space. They provide warmth without taking up too much space, and they can extend the use of your outdoor living space well into the fall and winter months.
- Decorative elements add character to the room and create an outdoor living room aesthetic.
- Pillows and blankets soften the look of the space while also making it more comfortable. You may also use them to complement the colors employed elsewhere on your patio to building a more unified design.
With these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating the perfect backyard oasis with a fire pit as the focal point!
Ambiance
Your backyard should be a place where you can relax and unwind after a long day. To create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere, pay attention to the ambiance of your space.
- First, consider the soundscape. If you live in a busy area, you might consider adding a water feature to help drown out any unwanted noise. Waterfalls, fountains, and bubbling pots are all great options. You could also add some soft background music to create a relaxing mood.
- Next, think about the fragrance of your space. Natural herbs, vegetation, scented candles, and essential oils can help transport you to your happy place. Citrus scents are invigorating, while lavender is known for its calming properties.
- Take a look at the color scheme of your space. Color can have a significant impact on mood, so choose wisely! Cool colors like blue and green are relaxing, while warmer colors like red and orange are energizing. You could also go for a neutral palette and add pops of color with pillows, blankets, and other accessories.
- Finally, don't forget about lighting! String lights are a popular option because they're relatively inexpensive and easy to install. You could also consider hanging lanterns or placing candles around the perimeter of the space. Or incorporate moody LED lighting into your fire feature with the Kalea Bay LED Outdoor Linear Gas Fireplace by Firegear.
Whatever you do, make sure you pay attention to the ambiance of your space so you can create a backyard retreat where you'll love spending time.
The Only Questions Left is When to Start
Now that you know how to create the perfect backyard oasis with a fire pit, it's time to get started! And don't forget to invite your friends and family over to enjoy it with you.
No matter your budget or backyard size, you can create the perfect backyard getaway with a little bit of planning and these helpful tips. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream backyard today!