What Type of Outdoor Fire Feature Is Best for You?

Are you finally ready to finish or upgrade your backyard or patio? Do you want to make it a focal point or a gathering place for friends and family, but not sure where to start? Start with deciding which fire feature might fit your situation by asking yourself these questions:

• How do we typically like to spend our outdoor time?
• Do we have a pool or other outdoor amenities that a fire feature would enhance?
• Do we want to stay under a covered patio, or do we prefer to be out under the sky?
• How much space do we have to dedicate to a fire feature?
• How mobile do we want it to be?
• Will this outdoor space be for small or large gatherings?
• What kind of concerns do we have about children and fire safety?

After you’ve got an idea of what your needs are, discover four basic types of fire features that can fulfill those needs.

Outdoor Fireplace

An outdoor fireplace is exactly what it sounds like: it’s a stationary focal point for your patio, recreating that cozy feel of an interior fireplace but in the beauty of the outdoors. Usually built with traditional masonry, rustic rock, concrete, or modern and sleek materials, it can be someplace you gather in all seasons. But what are the benefits, and why would it make sense for your home?

• You have a larger space you’d like to warm up.
• You want something stationary to focus your outdoor space around.
• You want a design that complements and enhances your home.

An outdoor fireplace is the perfect accessory for your outdoor space.

Firepit

Firepits can be stationary or portable and encourage gatherings in almost any type of weather. If you’d like a fire feature that you could place in any corner of your yard — not just close to the house — or even move it around as the desire takes you, a firepit may be the choice for you if:

• You want to encourage a campfire atmosphere with a circular design.
• You want something built in but smaller than a more traditional fireplace look.
• You have a gorgeous view that you don’t want to hide behind something larger.
• You want the freedom to change locations with a portable unit.

Warm up your outdoor space with a firepit.

Fire Table

Fire tables are similar to firepits in many respects, but the differences in design make a fire table a better choice in some situations. While some are portable and others built-in, a table usually is a better choice if:

• You have a narrower space.
• You would like to have an actual table with a fire feature.
• You want a small fire as an accent rather than a focal point.

See the beauty a fire table can bring to your outdoor space.

Outdoor Grill or Kitchen

More than just a basic grill, an outdoor kitchen is a great way for the entire family or group to enjoy time together. Especially during those months you’d rather be outside, you still want everyone to enjoy that time together, rather than having to spend time preparing food inside and hauling it out to your gathering.

Outdoor kitchens can be as basic or elaborate as you’d like, but reasons a built-in grill or kitchen outside may work for you are:

• You spend the majority of your time at-home time out of doors.
• Your family prefers grilled food for many meals.
• You want to cut down on electricity bills for air conditioning because you’re not heating up the house cooking inside.

Regardless of what your needs are, Alpine Fireplaces have the knowledge, 40 years’ experience, and convenient locations in Utah and Idaho to come in and take a look at the many options available for your new outdoor living space. Get in touch today.