Outdoor Fireplace
Key Characteristics
- ✓Chimneyed structure directing smoke upward
- ✓Enclosed firebox with decorative surround
- ✓Provides radiant heat in a focused direction
- ✓Creates a strong architectural focal point
- ✓Available in wood-burning and gas-fueled options
- ✓Often includes a mantel for decorative display
Types & Variations
Common Materials
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Position an outdoor fireplace as the anchor element at one end of a covered patio or outdoor room, with seating arranged in a semicircle facing the fire opening. Ensure the chimney extends above the roofline of any nearby structures to prevent smoke downdrafts. Build on a reinforced concrete foundation, as outdoor fireplaces are extremely heavy and will crack if the base settles unevenly.
💡 Pro Tip
Specify a firebox opening that is wider than it is tall, with a ratio of roughly three to two, as this proportion produces the best draft and most visually appealing flame presentation. Install a gas log lighter in the firebox even if you plan to burn primarily wood, as it makes starting fires effortless and eliminates the need for kindling and newspaper.
Related Terms
Fire Pit
A contained outdoor fire feature, either built into the ground or freestanding, designed to provide warmth and ambiance for outdoor gatherings.
Patio
A paved outdoor area adjoining a house, used for dining, recreation, or relaxation, typically constructed from stone, concrete, brick, or pavers.
Hardscape
The non-living, constructed elements of an outdoor landscape design, including patios, walkways, retaining walls, and other permanent structures.