Firepit design ideas

As dreamy as an evening spent outside enjoying a nice family dinner or entertaining friends and family sounds, the Irish weather can sometimes impede this. This is where an outdoor fire pit becomes a must. A fire pit is not only a practical inclusion to any garden design, it also adds a lot of value. The calming auditory and visual stimulation provided really adds to the al fresco experience. There is something very peaceful about sitting in front of a fire and we are certainly drawn by the prospects of s’mores!!

Many of our clients enjoy the idea of extending their house outdoors. Gardens are really moving in that direction. What was once a small circular patio has become so much more. People are looking for a space to sit and enjoy the company of friends and family while surrounded by the beauty of nature. A fire pit extends this experience long beyond the few short weeks of the Irish summer. They make outdoor living at least a three season event. We have really enjoyed exploring the different ways to use fire pits to satisfy our clients needs. There are so many options and even more pricing points. There is something for everyone. You must first decide what you want from your fire pit and then start considering the options.  

A chimenea is a great choice for a more rustic garden. They are aesthetically beautiful, that warm tone is fabulous, while also containing the ash. There are ways to prevent smoke rising into neighbouring properties  too, if you have a sunken or overlooked garden. Taller flue or chimney can be very helpful in this regard. Taking your firepit down a level may seem counterintuitive, but remember heat rises. A lower firepit will allow the heat to warm you perfectly whether seating or standing. Plus, you can stay reclined when roasting marshmallows!A cast iron fire pit will take on a lovely, weathered patina after a few summers. This provides a  perfect finish for a contemporary garden. Cast iron also heats up very quickly, a definite selling point and it tends to be more affordable than copper and steel.  Some fire pits come equipped with clever swing arms which can be attached for barbecuing. This is a wonderful option for the foodies!

There are a few safety considerations where fire is involved. Most fire pits are safe for most entertainment areas. It does depend massively though on where you bought both the material and the fire pit. Our advice would be to place the firepit on level gravel or paving. If you have an old paving stone or fireproof board that the pit can stand on, it reduces the effects from the heat on your paving. The ash can easily be washed away from gravel. Avoid the questionable combination of a fire pit on grass!! Ensure that there is sufficient space around the fire pit to prevent any nearby materials from catching fire. Keep the fire pit away from long grasses and plants, especially of the overhanging variety.

Consider what you want your fire pit to add to your outdoor lifestyle. If it’s warmth to facilitate eating outdoors, think about setting the fire pit on a patio close to the kitchen, with a dining table and seating. If it’s a lounge area that you wish to add it to, you can group sofas and chairs around the fire pit, allowing it to become the focal feature. You might choose to use your fire pit to give life to an under-used space in your garden. Maybe there is a shady corner that feels too cool. A fire pit will transform that little nook.

You must also consider the other elements which come together to create the perfect environment for your fire pit. You will want to create a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment, which will enhance the overall experience. Seating is a big consideration and can be a pricing one, so important to get right. Surround your fire pit with comfortable seating to encourage relaxation and socialisation. Create a harmony between the materiality of the furniture and your fire pit. Use blankets, cushions and fabrics to add to the cosy feel. Perhaps you might even place an outdoor rug underfoot. Lighting is another important consideration. Illuminate the space with string lights or standalone lights along the perimeter. Both add a great depth of warmth to the space and serve to further the cosy feel.