Location, Location, Location

Selecting the right location can have a huge impact on your enjoyment of your outdoor fireplace. The ideal spot should be close enough to the house to be convenient but far enough away to prevent smoke or noise from bothering anyone indoors. Look for a location that is shielded from neighboring views and does not interrupt the flow of traffic in your yard. It should also be a safe distance away from elements such as water features and children’s play areas.

An outdoor fireplace requires a large, level area with enough space for both the fireplace and the appropriate amount of seating. You should also take factors such as the location of utilities and nearby structures into account. When planning your outdoor fireplace, your contractor should consult local building codes and utility plans to ensure the location meets regulations.

Include Storage

To make your fireplace more convenient, ask your contractor to include storage in the design. If you have a wood burning fireplace, having wood easily accessible will make nights by the fire more enjoyable. A built-in storage space will also help ensure that your wood is always dry.

You should also have fire safety equipment within reach. A designated spot will make it so you’ll know exactly where to go if you need to grab something at a moment’s notice. Cozy textiles such as blankets and throw pillows can make sitting around the fire more comfortable. Include a protected spot to store these items to avoid having to bring them in and out of the house every time you have a fire.

Add Seating

Comfortable chairs are a necessity for enjoying long nights by the fire. Look for patio furniture that complements your landscape design and provides enough seating for your entire family. Built-in seating is an excellent way to supplement your patio furniture and ensure that you always have extra seats on hand.

Provide Shelter

To really make the most of your outdoor fireplace, add a roof over your sitting area. You’ll be able to enjoy the warmth of the fire year-round when you have shelter from the elements. Whether you have a covered patio or add a cabana to your property, a covered fireplace will provide the focal point for a cozy and inviting outdoor room. Be sure you have proper height and ventilation if you opt for an overhead structure.

Add Ambiance with Outdoor Lighting

While the glow of the fire will offer some light, the addition of outdoor lighting can transform your nighttime landscape. When you have an area for gathering such as an outdoor fireplace, it’s important to have lighting for both safety and ambiance.

Make sure guests can find the fireplace safely and with ease with the inclusion of a well-lit pathway to guide them. If you have a structure over your fireplace, a chandelier could add character and provide visibility around the fire. Opt for low-level or dimmable lighting to maintain the ambiance.