Designing With Fire

By Christi Simoneaux, contributing
writer for Belgard Hardscapes

Fire pits are the most popular type of masonry fire feature. This fire pit serves as the secluded destination area of this outdoor living space. The sunken level and circular wall add to the intimacy. The fire pit and coordinating wall are both constructed with Weston Wall. Urbana pavers visually lead to the pit with a running bond pattern trimmed with a contrasting soldiers course for a clean edge. Natural stone was incorporated into the design to complement the picturesque landscape.
photos courtesy of Belgard Hardscapes

Recent years have seen more and more homeowners opt to renovate their current homes instead of relocating. Research continues to show that creating an outdoor living environment can add more value to the home than under-beam construction.

Couple this with recent trends reported by the ASLA indicating fire features as one of the top “must haves,” and designing with fire becomes a hot topic.

“We’ve seen a tremendous increase in fire features,” Ken O’Neill, Vice President of Belgard Hardscapes said. “Homeowners want to create an outdoor space that is truly an extension of their home, and nothing says ‘home’ like a cozy fire.

Safety First
Whether designing with a site-built or factory-built fire feature, there are a number of safety issues that must be considered. Before getting started, check with local municipalities regarding safety codes to avoid costly design mistakes. Never underestimate the value of a professional plumber when running and installing gas lines. And, always remember that with fire comes heat.

“Elements fire features are all UL listed and engineered with a special heat lining,” said Joe Raboine, president of Harmony Outdoor Living. “But, if you’re designing a custom fireplace, be sure the contractor uses only non-combustible materials.

This custom-built fireplace converted an open space into an intimate gathering area. The structure of the fireplace was built with rough-hewn Celtik Wall. Tumbled Weston Wall was used for accents and to create the hearth. To add dimension and create a cozier space, curved wings radiate from the central fireplace, providing both linear space and wood storage. The patio was created with complementary hues of Urbana Pavers with a faux “area rug” of Mega-Arbel pavers surrounding the hearth. Low voltage lighting was added to the chimney and wings to add ambiance and increase visibility in this dark area of the yard.

Location Location Location
A fire feature will be the visual anchor of the design. When determining the best placement, it’s best to check for building code restrictions before getting started.

“Although it varies by municipality, gas-burning fire features can typically be placed just about anywhere, including right next to the house. But, most building codes require a wood-burning feature to be placed at least ten feet from any vertical structure,” Raboine said.

When using a wood-burning fire feature, Raboine also recommends testing wind patterns in the yard with a portable grill to check smoke flow direction. He also notes that often the best option is to make the fire feature the furthest design element.

Integrated Design
Once placement of the fire feature has been determined, there are a number of ways to integrate additional hardscape elements that complement the feature and create a cohesive outdoor living space. Paver pattern and retaining wall designs can mimic the lines of the fire feature, delineate separate gathering areas, or direct traffic flow.

Seat walls can also be incorporated into the design to offer a dimensional element that’s both functional and visually appealing. However, seat walls should be placed at least four feet from the fire feature to maintain a comfortable distance from the heat source.

Finishing Touches
A number of elements can be added to the design that will make the space more functional, as well as add ambiance.

Low voltage lighting can be installed directly onto the fire feature, as well as nearby walls, pillars, and around landscaping to increase both visibility and mood. Outdoor rated music speakers can be installed at various locations around the space to allow for a consistent sound level without bothering the neighbors. And, custom cushions added to seat walls will add both color and comfort. Water features can also be incorporated into the design to add another dimension.