Discover five inspiring outdoor fireplace ideas—from DIY pits to luxury stone builds—to transform your backyard into a cozy gathering space.
Installing an outdoor fireplace in your backyard is a surefire way to bring some of the best aspects of camping into your outdoor living space. Operating as a focal point for connection and comfort, the best outdoor fireplace ideas also consider design elements that complement your yard, home, and personality.
DIY options that embrace simplicity, portable fire pits that accommodate life on the go, and custom-built designs that make a bold statement for luxury home owners all have their place while serving a similar primary goal: to bring people together for warm conversations and lasting memories.
Here are five of our favorite outdoor fireplace ideas to help inspire your fireside dreams as you make plans to outfit your backyard with a fun and functional centerpiece.
1. Portable Fire Pits and DIY Setups
Budget-conscious homeowners, renters, and outdoor BBQ enthusiasts seeking flexibility to cook over their outdoor fireplace will want to explore portable and DIY options. Movable fire bowls and portable pits can be stashed away when not in use, assuming adequate storage space is available. Reasonably sized portable pits are also easy to haul along on various outdoor adventures.
Those up for a bit of a project might also consider a DIY firepit kit, or constructing a simple fire ring from bricks, stone, or cement blocks. Just take time for adequate research and consider safety measures such as:
- Install a Fire Ring in a DIY Pit - A steel fire ring will help protect any combustible material in the immediate areas, and will also extend the life of the more decorative outer layer of materials.
- Choose a Flat, Stable Surface for a DIY Fire Pit - Not only is a flat surface smart from a fire safety standpoint, but it will also create a more comfortable seating area.
- Consider Smoke and Sparks - Find or create a perimeter of non-combustible material around your fire pit location. Position the pit far enough away from your home to prevent smoke from blowing into your house.
- If possible, leave space beneath the fire pit floor to allow air to circulate from the bottom. This setup will create a funnel that keeps the fire burning hot, reducing smoke and pushing it up before it can blow onto guests.
2. Built-In Wood-Burning Fireplaces
If you have a reliable source of firewood and are comfortable building a fire, a built-in wood-burning fireplace provides a romantic ambiance. There’s just something about the timeless charm of crackling wood that ups the ambiance of the outdoor fireplace experience.
Granted, wood-burning outdoor fireplaces require some savvy management and expertise to burn well. In addition to the airflow tips mentioned above with DIY options, you’ll also want to make strategic choices when selecting wood to burn, including:
- Only Burn Dry and Seasoned Wood - Seasoned firewood has been allowed to dry naturally for 12 to 18 months. Well-seasoned wood typically develops a dull color and begins to crack at the edges, indicating a lower moisture content.
- Try to Burn Hardwoods - Hardwood species like ash, maple, and oak create hotter and cleaner fires than their softwood cousins. Typically, softwoods such as cedar, fir, and spruce contain more sap, which can result in increased smoke output.
- Never Burn Treated Lumber - While treated lumber from the hardware store will be sufficiently dry to burn, it also contains harsh chemicals that are released into the air during the burning process.
3. Sleek Modern Gas Fireplaces
Outdoor gas fireplaces offer great heat and visual appeal, without the inconvenience of smoke and fire management. They are a great, low-maintenance option that also provides stylish characteristics, such as clean lines and ashless output.
Technological developments have added additional selling points for gas fireplaces, as some now come equipped with remote start capabilities and smart-home compatible options. But one possible downside for some people considering a gas fireplace is the added cost of running a new gas line to the desired fireplace location, should one not already exist.
4. Covered Patio Fireplaces
For an authentic outdoor living room feel, covered patio fireplaces extend outdoor entertainment options by offering protection from mild inclement weather. This setup also opens the door for lighting and technological flourishes that make time outdoors comfortable and cozy when paired with outdoor kitchens, televisions, and heaters.
When planning a covered patio fireplace, double-check local zoning and safety regulations to ensure adequate venting and fire safety. Due to safety considerations, it is a project best undertaken with the assistance of a contractor or project manager.
5. Grand Stone Fireplaces with Custom Features
Ideal for luxury homes, serious entertainers, and those who want to make a bold statement, full-height stone outdoor fireplaces complete with mantles are an absolute home-run swing. With options like integrated seating, custom lighting, and outdoor kitchen elements, a majestic stone fireplace will wow visitors and set a stylish tone for every party.
Now that your interest is piqued, check out our Top Four Tips to Choose the Perfect Fire Pit. There’s a perfect outdoor fireplace option out there for everyone and we can help you sort through your priorities and options.
And don’t hesitate to contact us for help designing your dream outdoor space or outdoor kitchen. We’ve worked with hundreds of families to design the perfect outdoor space tailored to their needs, and we would love the opportunity to help you create an environment where you can make lasting memories with friends and family for years to come.
