Fire pits are no longer just a spot to keep warm; they have become aesthetic focal points that increase the overall appeal of your outdoor space. However, building a functional and stylish fire pit requires careful planning. Let’s explore the key factors to consider for a stylish fire pit design that’s perfect for homes in Scottsdale, Chandler, Peoria, Tempe, and Phoenix, AZ.
Choose the Right Location
Location is one of the important key factors to consider for a fire pit design. If wood burning is your thing, your fire pit should be close enough to your home for convenient access but not too close that sparks could endanger your home. When choosing a location, it’s wise to consider the wind patterns. Avoid installing a wood burning fire pit where strong gusts could blow smoke or sparks around.
Fire pits should be installed where your home or nearby trees can act as barriers against the wind to reduce smoke and fire sparks. Moreover, ensure that the area is big enough to accommodate furniture like chairs, tables, etc. The bare minimum size is really 12’x12’ for the pad. For additional shelter and shade, consider adding a pergola over the fire pit to create a defined space for gatherings.
Consider the Size and Shape
Another factor to keep in mind when designing the fire pit is its size and shape. The fire pit should be large enough for you and your family to sit around a cozy fire. But, it shouldn’t be too large to take up all the seating space.
Leave at least seven feet of space between the fire pit and where you’ll sit. This allows room for chairs and easy movement. Additionally, make sure the surface is flat and level to keep everything stable. In terms of shapes, a functional fire pit can be designed in any shape, including round, square, or rectangular.
Use the Right Materials
Choosing the materials for your fire pit is an important decision that requires careful consideration. For the outside, you can choose from stucco facing, tile facing, natural stone facing, or ledge stone facing. However, the inside wall must be made of fire-proof materials like fire bricks or a metal ring that can handle high heat.
In addition, ensure your fire pit’s materials complement your patio and outdoor spaces. You can either use the same materials as the patio or something different to make your fire pit stand out. For example, if you have a brick patio, you can build a brick fire pit to match. For a concrete patio, consider using pavers or flagstone to make it stand out.
Decide on the Heating Source
Your fire pit can be fueled by either gas or wood, depending on your preference. Wood is a popular fuel source as it’s easy to get, affordable, and gives you a realistic campfire feel. However, it can be tricky to start and needs some effort to keep it burning, and frankly is a bit more dangerous.
On the other hand, gas lights up quickly, stays on with less effort, and is a safer option. But installing a gas fire pit requires more work on the frontside, including setting up a gas line to a stub or the meter or a propane tank and of course running gas lines to the pit.
Considerations for a Stylish Fire Pit Design – Takeaway
For the best results, work with professional fire pit installers in Phoenix, AZ. They can help you choose the right location, style, fuel source, and materials to ensure a functional, stylish installation.
Enhance your outdoor living experience by installing a custom fire pit. Our team at Rising Tide Landscapes specializes in designing and installing top-quality fire pits and outdoor fireplaces that enhance your home’s value and appeal. For personalized designs, call us at 602-884-8433. We offer custom fire pit installation services in Phoenix, Arizona, and nearby areas.