Imagine a crisp winter evening, the air carrying a hint of frost. You’re outdoors, gathered with your loved ones around a fire pit, bundled up in soft blankets while the warmth of the crackling fire keeps the chill at bay. The glow of the flames dances in the crisp air, and the worries of your day melt away.

Sound like a scene you’d love to experience?

If you want to enjoy your outdoor space year-round, a fire feature is a must-have. You may imagine it as more of a summer-and-s’mores feature, but its glowing warmth is perfect for bringing coziness to your winter evenings, too.

Ready to create your ideal outdoor winter retreat? Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate escape or a lively gathering spot, your perfect fire feature awaits!

Plan The Design

Just as the kitchen is often the heart of a home, the right fire feature can become the soul of your backyard—and choosing the right one is about more than just picking something that looks good. It’s about finding the perfect blend of function and style to complement your outdoor space, reflect your unique personality, and create the atmosphere you envision for those special moments.

Start by assessing your space. Where is this fire feature going to live? Will it sit on a patio, nestled among cozy seating, or anchor an open lawn with a wide, clear view of the sky? Does it need to complement existing features, like a pergola or garden path, or will it serve as the focal point for a brand-new outdoor design?

Your new fire feature should command attention and invite admiration, like the headliner at a backyard concert, but it shouldn’t hog the stage! If your patio is the size of a postage stamp, a massive stone fire pit can overwhelm it. Best to keep it modest and compact.

For sprawling lawns, don’t be afraid to go big and bold with plenty of room for everyone to gather. Balance is key.

Next, think about how it interacts with its surroundings. Your fire feature should feel intentional, not like it was dropped in as an afterthought. Consider how it looks from different angles, whether you’re admiring it from your kitchen window, sitting around it with guests, or approaching it from another part of your yard. Thoughtful placement transforms it from a mere feature into the star of your outdoor experience.

For safety, ensure it’s positioned away from anything flammable (we’re looking at you, overhanging branches). And while it might be lovely to enjoy the sight of it from a window, do be mindful of placing it a safe distance from the exterior of your home.

Finally, think about where you’ll be sitting. A fire feature with a view of your garden or the stars is way better than staring at the side of your garage.

Feel The Burn

When it comes to choosing the right fire feature, the type you pick can make a huge difference in both the look and feel of your outdoor space. Each type offers its own vibe, requires a different level of maintenance, and has a unique style, so it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each to determine what works best for you.

Wood-burning fire pits are a classic choice if you love the crackle and scent of real wood burning. There’s something magical about the smell of burning logs and the dancing flames that come with a traditional wood-burning fire pit.

They require some maintenance, like cleaning out the ash and stockpiling firewood, but they’re fantastic at creating a rustic, cozy atmosphere if you’re looking for an authentic experience.

If you love the warmth and ambiance of a fire but prefer less hassle, a gas fire pit can be a good choice. These fire pits run on natural gas or propane, making them easy to light with the flip of a switch—no kindling or matches needed.

They will keep you warm, require less maintenance, and won’t leave behind ashes to clean up, but they do require a gas line or access to a propane tank.

If you’re looking for something eco-friendly, an ethanol fire pit is a modern alternative that can suit your need for ambiance. These fire pits burn renewable fuel made from plants like corn or sugarcane and don’t produce smoke or ash.

While they’re incredibly low-maintenance, typically compact and low-profile, and will add a charming glow to your space, they do not produce much heat. They’re best if you prioritize convenience and eco-friendliness and don’t plan to gather around them for warmth on a cold evening.

Choose Your Style

Once you’ve decided on the function of your fire feature—whether you prefer the traditional warmth of wood, the convenience of gas, or the clean burn of ethanol—the next step is to think about the style.

The right style can dramatically influence the overall look and feel of your outdoor space, turning your backyard into everything from a rustic retreat to a modern gathering spot.

Feeling modern and minimalist? A tabletop fire pit can bring a cozy, intimate vibe to the smallest of spaces. These compact fire features are typically fueled by ethanol or small gas canisters and are perfect as a centerpiece on a dining or coffee table.

They’re also incredibly portable, allowing you to move them around as needed or store them away when not in use.

Fire bowls are a fantastic option for a more open and striking design. Their simple, circular shape offers a clean, contemporary look that works well in a variety of settings—from sleek, modern gardens to more relaxed outdoor spaces. Fire bowls typically have a wide, shallow structure, creating a large, visually appealing flame that can be the focal point of your landscape.

Fire pit tables combine two essentials—heat and function—by offering a fire pit built directly into a table. These are perfect for creating a multi-use space where you can gather around the fire to chat, relax, and enjoy your meal. Fire pit tables often come in a variety of materials, from concrete to metal to wood, and some even feature storage for propane tanks.

If you’re seeking something unique that fits your style and space perfectly, a custom fire pit might be the way to go. A fire pit should fit seamlessly with your overall landscape, whether that means incorporating natural stone, blending it into your patio design, or creating a one-of-a-kind shape.

Custom fire pits give you the freedom to match the fire feature to your outdoor living style, whether you want something rustic, industrial, modern, or anything in between.

For a more dramatic and stylish touch, consider a sunken or in-ground fire pit. These fire pits are built into the ground, often surrounded by a seating area for a more intimate and cozy feel. In-ground fire pits create a “fire bowl” effect that allows the flames to be lower than a traditional above-ground fire pit, giving it a more modern and understated look.

These designs can be made from stone, brick, or concrete, and they work especially well when paired with built-in seating, making them a great option for creating a communal gathering space.

If you’re after a truly grand statement piece, why not choose a full-on outdoor fireplace? Outdoor fireplaces offer a more architectural and refined look than traditional fire pits and provide a more consistent source of warmth. Fireplaces can be built into a wall, giving you an elegant and timeless feature in your backyard.

With built-in chimneys and the option to use wood or gas, fireplaces are a great way to combine functionality with style. A fireplace often becomes the main gathering spot for outdoor spaces, serving as a cooking area and heat source, and adding a touch of enduring elegance.

A fire feature can be the heart of your winter outdoor space, offering warmth, ambiance, and a cozy gathering spot during chilly evenings. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek elegance of a tabletop fire pit or the timeless appeal of a custom fireplace, the right fire feature can turn your winter backyard into a welcoming retreat.

Don’t hibernate this winter—embrace the season and get outdoors! A fire feature is the perfect way to enjoy crisp evenings under the stars while staying toasty warm. And let’s face it: s’mores are just as perfect during any season!

Ready to make your winter nights cozier? Book a consultation today, and let’s create a fire feature that transforms your backyard into a winter wonderland!