Spending time outdoors is vital for our mental health and wellbeing, and nothing makes the experience more memorable than fire. Sitting around the fire sharing stories is integral to being human. Bring back the joys of fireside conversation with a new fire pit. Here are some ways to be inspired: 6 fire pit designs for a summer under the stars in Croton, NY.
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Classic Round
When most people think about fire pits, the image that comes to mind the most is a classic round shape that provides an authentic campfire feel. Round fire pits lend themselves to conversation and coziness because no one is ever too far away from the action (or the warmth). Surrounding a round fire pit with masonry seating - especially with a tall, comfortable back - transforms the space into an intimate “conversation pit.”
Round fire pits can be wood-fired, or you can choose natural gas or propane for more flame consistency, safety, cleanliness and no smoke.
Whether you choose a masonry fire pit that blends perfectly with any style home or a trendy oversized concrete or metal bowl, a round fire pit is an instant hit with everyone.
Square
Square masonry fire pits give your outdoor space a more structured and formal look. They are often capped with large flat stones, perfect for warming your feet or resting your beverage.
Square fire pits match the elegance of grand homes. Their shape lends them to large spaces where you can place comfortable furniture. Square fire pits are also perfect for accommodating people who love to sit very close to the fire and at the same time, people who get too hot.
Like round fire pits, square fire pits are adaptable to any fuel type.
Rectangular
Ideal for chic modern settings, a rectangular fire pit echoes the home’s clean lines and simplicity. For a stunning showpiece, install a rusted metal fire pit, or opt for understated smooth concrete to complete the minimalist look.
To keep the flames consistent across the entire span of the fire pit, choose natural gas or propane rather than wood.
L-Shaped
If you have the space, why not go for a bold look with an L-shaped fire pit? This design can be used to separate spaces and create outdoor “rooms,” as well as giving more people a chance to warm up by the fire. A dramatic L-shaped fire pit is a great complement to modern homes, and it’s typically gas- or propane-fueled so for consistent flames across both lengths of the fire pit.
Sunken Fire Pit
Fire pits don’t have to be at ground level; they can be sunken, too!
A sunken fire pit helps minimize the mess from ashes, if your fire pit is wood-fired. It also creates a clean look around the fire, and lends itself to warming your feet by the fire. Sunken fire pits can be any shape; again, keep in mind that linear fire pits work best with natural gas or propane.
Elevated Fire Pit
Put a modern twist on an old favorite by elevating a fire pit to coffee-table, dining-table or bar-height. Add a generous cap stone so there’s plenty of space to put your dinner plate and a beverage. If you’re going to be dining fireside, choose natural gas or propane to avoid the smoke-in-the-eyes inconvenience of wood fires.
Decor Considerations
If you opt for a gas- or propane-fueled fire pit, you can add even more interest to your fire area by using colorful fire glass in lieu of the traditional lava rock. Fire glass is easier to clean and you can change out the colors to match your mood or the seasons.
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