There are an infinite number of possible designs, and outdoor fire pits no longer need to be just a round pile of rocks. I work with several basic styles of gas fed fire pits when I design outdoor gardens to enchant my clients. The popularity of fire pits and the fire effects they produce in the garden is one of fastest growing trends in outdoor design. The allure of sitting around a fire ring has been around since the beginning of mankind. Fire provides warmth, light, a cooking source and, of course relaxation. A dancing flame has a mesmerizing affect that encourages you to unwind and settle in. The popularity of fire pits, or conversation pits as they are commonly called, has grown rapidly in recent years. Proper design and construction will ensure a safe and enjoyable feature that will last several decades This fully equipped outdoor kitchen is separate from the rest of the living space, allowing the two areas to be utilized entirely on their own. outdoor kitchens are most efficient when it's zoned into logical uses. your cook space should have plenty of prep space, room to set down utensils and stage ingredients, and a comfortable buffer from the seating island to keep guests protected from the heat.

Succulents, grasses and low-water shrubs with vivid foliage give this coastal garden a rich, textured look with minimal maintenance. Exterior colors and furniture selection by Julie McMahon. Photos by Daniel Bosler

Modern rectangular geometry and smooth concrete are the name of the game with Elementi’s “Metropolis” fire table. With an offset circular fire pit, you have plenty of surface space for drinks and appetizers. Did I hear someone say “Dinner Party?” The Details: Model # OFG104 Body construction: High performance cast concrete Burner ring size: 12″ diameter Burner ring construction: 18 gauge, 304 stainless steel Burner pan size: 16″ diameter (I.D.) Burner pan construction: 18 gauge, 304 stainless steel Control system: Electronic ignition with auto safety shut-off Product size: 56″ x 32″x 14” Product weight: 168 lbs Natural gas: Model # OFG104-NG Propane: Model # OFG104-LP Maximum Heat Output: 45,000 BTUs Certification: CSA Certified Media: 0.3 cubic feet of lava rock (included) Warranty: 1 year Canvas Cover Included

Partially covered swimming pool overlooking Lake Travis with stone walls, fire pit, recessed lighting and tongue and groove ceiling Photo by Tre Dunham

Photography by Rebecca Lehde
Example of a large classic backyard patio design in Charleston with a fire pit and no cover

Detail--Upper Level Fire Pit Patio The client wanted to maximize their hillside space with several entertaining outdoor rooms. It was also important to create a landscape style that reflected their home's contemporary craftsman architecture. We created a dining area with a built in bench for overflow. Cantilevered steps lead to a fire pit and lounge area on an upper level patio. Hillside planting creates a cohesive feel.

This recessed, wood burning fire pit is a great destination to hang out with friends and family on a cool fall evening. Photography Credit: Wade Griffith

We installed a fire pit and pavers at this home in the Gateway Quarter, AZ. This close-up photo shows you that design isn’t just about look. It also needs to incorporate texture too. You can see how the slabs of stone and rock in the firepit don’t sit flush; they jut out at different lengths to provide a very tactile look. The pavers are a nice contrast to the intense colors of the firepit.

We installed a fire pit, outdoor dining area, and expansive pavers for the owners of this Eastmark, AZ home. The owners chose white for all three installations. The houses’ other natural features, such as the brown brick wall, the decorative stones, and the pale yellow of the home’s exterior, all work together to add contrast and ensure that the white of the installation never looks pale or washed out.

This was a large installation project. We installed a fountain, retaining wall, fire pit, artificial turf, and travertine pavers. The result is a beautiful entertaining area. The small firepit will add both warmth and light to the seating area. The sound of cascading water from the fountain provides an excellent audible enhancement. The artificial turf makes an ideal area for family and friends to stretch their legs after a meal or while enjoying a drink.

The Stonefire Gas Fire Pit Table has everything you need in both a table and a fire pit.
Example of a classic patio design in Kansas City

We were asked to create something really special for one of our most admired clients. This home has been a labor of love for both of us as we finally made it exactly what she wanted it to be. After many concept ideas we landed on a design that is stunning! All of the elements on her wish list are incorporated in this challenging, multi-level landscape: A front yard to match the modern traditional-style home while creating privacy from the street; a side yard that proudly connects the front and back; and a lower level with plantings in lush greens, whites, purples and pinks and plentiful lawn space for kids and dogs. Her outdoor living space includes an outdoor kitchen with bar, outdoor living room with fireplace, dining patio, a bedroom-adjacent lounging patio with modern fountain, enclosed vegetable garden, rose garden walk with European-style fountain and meditation bench, and a fire pit with sitting area on the upper level to take in the panoramic views of the sunset over the wooded ridge. Outdoor lighting brings it alive at night, and for parties you can’t beat the killer sound system!

Traditional Style Fire Feature - the Prescott Fire Pit - using Techo-Bloc's Prescott wall & Piedimonte cap.
Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard stone landscaping in New York with a fire pit.

Photo by Brian Parks www.parkscreative.com
Inspiration for a large timeless backyard stone patio remodel in Seattle with a fire pit and no cover

Traditional Style Fire Feature - Techo-Bloc's Valencia Fire Pit.
Patio - large contemporary backyard concrete patio idea in Charlotte with a fire pit

Bluestone patio with fieldstone sitting wall and fieldstone fire pit with custom cedar cover. Photo by Pete Cadieux
Inspiration for a small traditional partial sun backyard stone landscaping in Boston with a fire pit.

The design of this home was driven by the owners’ desire for a three-bedroom waterfront home that showcased the spectacular views and park-like setting. As nature lovers, they wanted their home to be organic, minimize any environmental impact on the sensitive site and embrace nature. This unique home is sited on a high ridge with a 45° slope to the water on the right and a deep ravine on the left. The five-acre site is completely wooded and tree preservation was a major emphasis. Very few trees were removed and special care was taken to protect the trees and environment throughout the project. To further minimize disturbance, grades were not changed and the home was designed to take full advantage of the site’s natural topography. Oak from the home site was re-purposed for the mantle, powder room counter and select furniture. The visually powerful twin pavilions were born from the need for level ground and parking on an otherwise challenging site. Fill dirt excavated from the main home provided the foundation. All structures are anchored with a natural stone base and exterior materials include timber framing, fir ceilings, shingle siding, a partial metal roof and corten steel walls. Stone, wood, metal and glass transition the exterior to the interior and large wood windows flood the home with light and showcase the setting. Interior finishes include reclaimed heart pine floors, Douglas fir trim, dry-stacked stone, rustic cherry cabinets and soapstone counters. Exterior spaces include a timber-framed porch, stone patio with fire pit and commanding views of the Occoquan reservoir. A second porch overlooks the ravine and a breezeway connects the garage to the home. Numerous energy-saving features have been incorporated, including LED lighting, on-demand gas water heating and special insulation. Smart technology helps manage and control the entire house. Greg Hadley Photography

This patio table top allows the fire pit to be used as a cocktail table during the summer!
Large elegant backyard stone patio photo in Other with a fire pit and no cover

This firepit installation in Chandler, AZ, immediately creates a focal point for the yard. It draws the eye from any area of the yard. The herringbone pattern pavers help to lift the design with their contrasting browns. There is plenty of space for outdoor chairs or recliners, and it is all within close proximity to the sliding door to the house.