What to Consider When Adding a Stone Fire Pit to Your Backyard

About Stone Fire Pits

Stone fire pits are a mesmerizing addition or extension to any home. When designed well, they can turn a drab backyard into a fab entertaining area and even increase the value of your property. But the best part is you won’t have to worry about the cooler weather, as you enjoy the beautiful memories created by the crackle of flames bursting into different colors.

Whether you’re looking to extend the usability of your outdoor space or create a stunning focal point in your landscape design, there are a number of things to consider when designing and building a stone fire pit in your yard.

Location

Before you begin to think about your stone fire pit design, you will need to consider where you want the feature to be located. A stone firepit built into a paved patio is a popular choice for many of our clients, but when it comes to outdoor fire pits, they can be custom-built anywhere in your backyard.

stone fire pit in Manchester MA

Stone patio with fire pit in Manchester, MA

If your property has a unique vantage point, consider building your fire pit in a place that makes the most of the view.

luxury patios in ma

Ocean front fire pit design in Massachusetts

Or if you prefer a private, cozy space for curling up by the crackling fire, you can create a dedicated area for your custom fire pit. A stone border helps define this outdoor space from the rest, while landscaped gardens provide a secluded feel.

custom stone fire pit area

Secluded stone fire pit in Gloucester, MA

Place your fire pit by the pool or hot tub to create a warmth and ambience while you’re taking a dip.

outdoor fire and spa

Stone fire pit used to create a water feature above pool and spa

Keep in mind, the location of your fire pit should be safe and not close to any flammable materials that can trigger a fire. While you may choose to have greenery around your fire pit for an added sense of being in nature, be careful not to build it too close to trees, shrubs, or bushes.

Finally, remember the location of your fire pit is a personal choice and should be guided by its size, design, and overall purpose in your outdoor space.


Shape and Size

The perfect fire pit design should always blend with the surrounding space, otherwise your new outdoor feature will be impractical and can become a design disaster. When you opt for a custom-built fire pit, you can choose from a variety of shapes and sizes to suit your taste and lifestyle.

The classic design of a round fire pit can be elevated with high-end stone pieces to create a unique outlook that will wow your guests.

round stone fire pit

Round blue stone fire pit placed on custom flagstone patio

A square fire pit is another popular design that adds a modern flare to any yard or patio. This shape works well alongside built-in seating but is equally impressive when accented with a stylish outdoor furniture set.

square stone fire pit

Custom built square stone fire pit, Manchester MA

If you’re looking for truly unique design, you might consider a custom shape for your stone fire pit. There is no limit to the geometry of a fire pit so don’t feel like you are restricted to regular shapes. If you enlist the help of a professional stonemason, anything is possible!

flagstone patio and fire pit

Custom built stone fire pit in irregular shape

When it comes to size, it’s important to think about the overall design of your existing landscape and how much room you will have for the fire pit and any surrounding seating or dining areas.

Regardless of style, the ideal fire pit size is between 36 and 44 inches wide, and 12 to 14 inches from base to top. The height could increase to 18 or 20 inches. This will allow your friends to hang their feet on the edges.

However, fire pits can take on different sizes to accommodate all your guests and give just enough room for one more person to squeeze in.

Wood or Gas

The soothing crackling sound and colorful glimmer of a wood fire can provide a cozy atmosphere that is hard to beat. However, wood produces a lot of smoke, which can be a health hazard for people susceptible to respiratory attacks, itchy eyes, and general discomfort.

If you have a stone fire pit that is away from your main building and close neighbors, then wood may be the right choice for you. Just remember to consult your local fire department for the necessary safety codes before you finalize your plan.

stone fire pits massachusetts

Wood-look fire pit built by The Patio Company

Gas fire pits are a popular choice as they are a great way to burn low and slow with zero smoke and no ash, soot, smell or need to clean up before the next big fire.

There is no preparation involved, so spontaneous fire pits are always an option. It also eliminates the need to wait for the last ember to go out. Just click the off button and go.

Not only are they cleaner and more convenient but gas-lit stone fire pits can create a high-end look and finish to your outdoor space.

stone fire pit design

Custom-built gas stone fire pit

Stone fire pits are elegant additions to any home. While they may look like your next DIY project, a well-designed outdoor fire pit needs a professional touch. So, if you are on the lookout for a unique stone fire pit to elevate your outdoor space, contact us today.

The Patio Company are professional landscape designers with over 30 years experience building and designing unique, high-end, and sophisticated stone fire pits for clients across Massachusetts.

 

We not only create a unique space, but ensure that your personality, lifestyle, circle of friends, and home are incorporated into every fire pit and landscape design.

Contact us today to start your project.