No matter what time of year it is, an outdoor fire always gets people excited. There’s something magical about gathering around with friends and family, making s’mores, or toasting with your favorite cocktails.
When it comes to deciding which kind of fire pit makes sense for your own yard, there’s such a wide array of options it can be overwhelming trying to narrow it down. That’s why we’re going to highlight a wide variety to help you determine which type will work for your outdoor space.
Let’s jump in, look at the different types of fire pits available, and see if we can’t find one that’s perfect for your yard.
DIY Paver Fire Pit
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkLwTkeFcgg/?hl=en&tagged=diyfirepit
I’m not going to lie, this is my favorite kind of fire pit. DIY, low-budget, and you can have your friends over for a fire and cold drinks the very same day you finish the project. This fire pit can be made with 12”-pavers you’ll find at most home improvement stores.
Stone And Gravel Fire Pit
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkqVvBAlPFi/?tagged=diyfirepit
While we’re on the topic of DIY, you may like a stone and gravel option. As with the previous DIY option, this fire pit is simple enough to put together in one day.
Lay a pea-gravel foundation and then make your fire pit out of large stones or small boulders. Add wood and you’ve got yourself a fire pit.
In-Ground Fire Pit
https://www.instagram.com/p/7Wg2pjiBar/?hl=en&tagged=ingroundfirepit
Some people prefer to take their DIY skills to the next level and put their fire pit in-ground. This option uses brick and stone for the base and can be finished off with any variety of materials such as large stones, pavers, or more brick.
Concrete Bowl Fire Pit
Okay, admittedly, you may not cook up hot dogs and s’mores on a gas fire pit such as this, but what a gorgeous backyard statement piece!
Brick Patio Fire Pit
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlIuGlzAl41/?hl=en&tagged=firepit
Up your patio and fire pit game just a bit by building your fire pit right into your brick patio.
When it’s not in use, you can easily cover the fire pit, making it level with the ground.
Stacked Stone Fire Pit
A unique and aesthetically pleasing way to blend your fire pit seamlessly into your backyard is to make it out of the same stacked stone that you use for other yard projects, such as retaining walls and walkways.
Natural Rock Fire Pit
https://www.instagram.com/p/BEwET7gBFLN/?tagged=naturalfirepit
For anyone preferring a more natural, organic fire pit that fits the mold of the land and has less inherent structure than a traditional pit, consider this option.
While a bit pricier considering the cost of such large rocks, its design elements are warm and simple.
Fire Pit With Bench
This project requires a bit more than your average DIY skills on a Saturday, but if you’re in the market for something large with built-in seating, this is a fire pit that would surely make some neighbors jealous.
Gas Fire Pit With Built-In Seating
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlIrLgtgSn6/?hl=en&tagged=firepit
Another option with built-in seating is this gas fire option, with ample room to seat several guests. The fire pit itself is large enough that it should provide plenty of warmth along with a bright, ambient glow.
Concrete Square Fire Pit
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlIkH5ng-DE/?hl=en&tagged=firepit
If you prefer a bit of a modern edge to your design elements, there’s a fire pit for that. Check out this concrete square fire pit.
Steel Fire Pit
Now, unless you’re skilled with steel, this isn’t a DIY project, but if you can get your hands on one, it definitely has the “wow” factor. A steel fire pit is a bit edgier, while still providing all the benefits of a traditional pit.
Find it at SpireMetalworks on Etsy
Decorative Steel Fire Pit
If you like the idea of a steel fire pit, you may like your fire pit to double as a piece of art. This fire pit isn’t likely to look like any that your friends and neighbors might have.
Find it at JSGeneraStore on Etsy
Tractor Rim Fire Pit
https://www.instagram.com/p/BN5IH7VAsfm/?tagged=tractorrimfirepit
There are some things just begging for an opportunity to be upcycled, and tractor rims are (literally) one of the biggest. They make an ideal center for a fire pit and can be dressed up by surrounding them with simple pavers.
Wine Barrel Fire Pit
While we’re on the topic of upcycling, wine lovers may like the idea of having a fire pit made from an old wine barrel. This fire pit is gas lit and looks like the perfect spot for gathering around with friends and your favorite spirits.
Find it at SmokinBarrelWorks on Etsy
Concrete And Glass Fire Pit Table
This modern concrete and glass fire pit is doing double-duty as a table. A perfect piece to make a huge impression in your backyard or screened-in porch.
Stone Bowl Fire Pits
If you love to stray from tradition, this concept is quite unique. These gas-lit bowls are filled with stones and create a tranquil, spa-like look for this fire pit.
Copper Bowl Fire Pit
Copper and heat have a great relationship when it comes to retaining warmth. Not only is copper a beautiful option, but it’ll keep you, your guests and your marshmallows toasty around the fire.
Contemporary Fire Pit With Glass Rock
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlG1oscBed7/?hl=en&tagged=firepit
You’ve likely seen these fire pits at classy restaurants and trendy boutique hotels, but there’s no reason you can’t have one for yourself!
Sunken Fire Feature
If you’ve got the time and the resources, you could create your own sunken fire feature, sure to be one of the most striking areas on your property.
Gas Fire Pit In Patio
I’m not sure you can get any more modern than this. A gas fire pit level with the concrete patio, filled with stones. Imagine the surprise on the faces of the people who don’t see it coming and fire just starts shooting up from the ground!
Gas Vs. Wood Fire Pits
One of the most important things to consider before you start shopping for fire pits or materials for a DIY project is whether or not you’d like a gas or wood fire pit. There are pros and cons to each, so it’s critical that you think through what makes sense for you.
Natural Gas And Propane: Easy to Light, Not Ideal For Cooking
Natural gas and propane fire pits are easy to light and get started quickly, they produce no smoke, there is no ash to clean up, and they don’t give off any sparks or embers that you’d need to worry about. The downside to this option is that they’re not ideal for cooking or roasting, they produce far less heat than wood, they take longer to install, and their fire rings may clog and stop working. Additionally, their tanks need to be refilled regularly, and they’re generally more expensive.
Wood: Traditional And Affordable, But Require A Watchful Eye
A wood fit pit is more traditional and gives that wood-fire smell that many people adore. They’re also more affordable than their gas counterparts, are easier to install, and provide a unique ambiance. However, it’s important to note that they are not clean burning, are a bigger fire hazard, and are more difficult to start and keep burning. They also need to be cleaned regularly and require you to have the ability to store wood.
Budget And Location
Once you decide between gas and wood options, it’s time to establish your budget and begin looking for a fire pit solution that fits your taste and will work in the space you intend to put it. Remember that fire pits should be placed at a minimum of 10 feet away from the house. You also need to consider the landscaping you’re working with and around.
Fabulous! Looking so nice! Thank you for this piece of inspiration!