As backyards have evolved incredibly over the last 5-10 years we are now treating them with just as much time and detail as we do our interior spaces.
Backyards now include many different elements and the most common additions are water and FIRE! Both of these elements add a layer of relaxation, zen, luxury and indulgence.
Make your backyard your own luxury getaway — whether you have a water feature or not, fire pits can transform your space into an experience.
Read on to learn more about inspiring layouts, materials, shapes and sizes in our fire pits guide.
Outdoor Fire Pit Layouts That Transform Your Space
Make a statement with a fire pit focal point. Whether you are inside or outside, at a marvelous event or just taking in the view, fire pits can be used to create drama, a feature, a feeling! They do not always need to be in a setting, rather they can be stand-alone art.
For example, pictured below see how fire pits flanking a pool create a sense of drama, or line a pathway to light your way and instill a feeling of tranquility.
Creating an intimate setting for yourself or gatherings of loved ones only gets better when you add fire.
Fire creates a gathering place, a destination that is so inviting and warming on those cool nights. Who can resist? You have to gather round.
Types of Fire Pits
Fire pits are available in 3 different options — natural gas, propane and wood — and it is important to take the below tips into consideration before you go out and buy one.
Natural gas and propane fire pits are most common in cities, where wood burning fire pits are prohibited.
Natural gas fire pits are ideal, but to do this a natural gas line must be run to your desired area underground and by a certified gas installer. Keep in mind that you need to budget for the cost of this gas line. A gas line can start around $1000 and can go upwards by the thousands depending on how far this gas line is required to run. If you are in the beginning phase of a backyard reno it is best to work that gas line into your plans so it can be executed without disruption.
If your outdoor space is done then you need to decide — am I willing to dig up my stone or pavers to add in this line? Will it affect the look and finish of my space? If on a deck, do you have access underneath and can the gas line be run to my desired area? If adding a gas line is too disruptive to your space then propane is for you!
Propane fire pits keep things simple and flexible. With propane your fire pit will be completely movable should you wish to change its location and it is a more budget friendly option, avoiding the need to run a gas line.
The compromise to selecting propane would be the following. With our low modern style fire pits there is no room to accommodate a propane tank in its body, and you also would not want to pick up this fire pit to access a propane tank. As a result, you must store the tank outside of the fire pit, exposing the propane line that will run from your fire pit to your desired tank location.
The tank could be tucked behind your sofa, or even better, hidden under one of our dual use propane covers/side tables. Please find a high and low option below — they are attractive as well as functional. Keep in mind that a standard supplied propane hose is 12 feet in length, so you will want to ensure that suits your space.
If you are considering a natural gas or propane fire pit for a covered area, such as a backyard patio, you need to ensure that you have a full 8 feet of safety clearance from the top of the fire pit to the covering above to meet code.
Propane fire pits come in a range of stunning shapes and sizes. For example, our stunning Dekko concrete fire pits are available in the following standard forms:
Square: This shape is great for smaller urban areas like city backyards. Clean in lines and design, this is a crisp option for a small sectional and 4 club chairs.
Round: Perfect in any setting, allowing for easy movement and circular conversation, this shape is great for seating 2 to 8 people, all depending on your level of desired coziness.
Rectangular: The classic fire pit shape, it maximizes entertaining space and works in standard to oversized areas.
Lastly and lets not forget the old classic wood burning fire pits! Stunning in rural areas with space to burn.
We carry a beautiful line of handmade Coreten steel wood burning fire pits. Coreten steel will stand up against heat long term, and it has a gorgeous rust patina finish creating an urban industrial but still warm look.
Our Asia wood burning fire pit is low and close to the ground, providing a full view of the fire in a very clean and contemporary way.
Finally, our scallop fire pit is a favorite. This gentle soothing design compliments any landscape either by the water or far away. Enjoy the rust patina exterior of this Corten Steel fire pit for a lifetime.
With Casualife’s space planning services we are happy to assist in determining what shape and size of fire pit is just right for you and your favourite outdoor area. Plus, all of our Dekko fire pits are handmade here in Ontario.
For grand and unique spaces the possibilities are endless. Please contact us today to learn more about our custom program to design a fire feature exclusively for you!
Planters for your outdoor space are like artwork on your walls, or that object on your coffee table. And just like your indoor space, it is important to add those additional touches — warm up your space, make it feel inviting, lush and even cozy. These finishing touches are what will set your space apart from others, creating that next-level luxury feel.
There are many reasons for using planters, and every outdoor space can use a planter or two to enhance the look and feel.
Odd numbers are best!
They bring the space in and soften those harsh corners, add visual interest and just feel good!
You can also use them to create privacy from a neighboring yard.
These low rectangular planters do a very nice job, not imposing on sightlines but have enough presence creating warmth and a transition into another area of the deck or patio.
If you have large open areas that feels dismal or vacant, and it doesn’t make any sense to furnish that space, you can create a focal point with a cluster of well-situated oversized pots.
Looking for guidance on planning your outdoor space? Our team of Toronto outdoor furniture specialists are available to assist you, and can provide a design consultation tailored to your needs.
We are here to help! You can reach us directly at both our Markham and Mississauga showroom outdoor furniture stores.
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