Deciding on Outdoor Fireplace or Outdoor Fire Pit in Glastonbury, CT

Making the decision to bring the ambience and warmth of a fire feature to your Glastonbury, CT, landscape design is easy. What gets to be challenging is choosing which kind of fire feature would best fit your needs. There are so many options available, starting with whether you should go with an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit. While both of these features would be a wonderful addition to your landscape, they can differ immensely in terms of how you enjoy them and the aesthetic they bring to your property. 

Consider How Much Space Your Fire Feature Needs

Space is extremely important when considering placement of a fire feature. How much room do you have to incorporate a fire pit or outdoor fireplace? Some outdoor fireplace designs can be large and reach to great heights. If your space is not one that can accommodate a large-scale feature, then a fire pit may be more ideal. This is not to say that a more linear and low profile fireplace cannot be considered. A fire pit is typically wider and can accommodate seating at all sides. This could require a bit more floor or ground space.

Related: Design Ideas and Styles for an Outdoor Fireplace in Avon, CT

Think About Its Main Function

What will be the purpose of your fire feature? If you’re hoping to extend it beyond simple admiration purposes, you could look into adding a cooking feature. An outdoor fireplace, for example, could be made to accommodate a pizza oven. This could act as an extension of your outdoor kitchen area or become a part of your patio. 

An outdoor fireplace or fire pit can also be gas operated, eliminating the smell of smoke that may be less appealing to some. Other homeowners find wood-burning fire features hard to resist for creating romantic nights under the stars, roasting treats with the kids, or spreading warmth at all sides .The choice is a personal one and depends on what you find pleasing when you have time to spend outdoors.

Placement of Your Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit

Placement of either one of these features must be factored in to your fire feature plan. If you are considering placing a fire feature in an enclosed, screened, or semi-enclosed area, then an outdoor fireplace may be more practical. A wood-burning fire pit will produce smoke, ash, and oftentimes embers that can stain, burn, and produce soot on nearby items. This is something to think about if you have a screened enclosure or little ventilation. If your space is not enclosed, a fire pit could be perfect for adding a more natural element and ambiance while being able to provide an opportunity to sit around it and enjoy time with family.

Related: How to Match Your New Outdoor Fireplace to Your Rocky Hill, CT, Patio

Style of Your Fire Feature

Style is often the first thing homeowners want to consider when thinking about what their fire feature will look like and rightfully so. Adding a fire feature can bring character to the overall aesthetic of your landscape. It can serve as a focal point, depending on the material that is used to construct it. This makes these features easily customizable. Extend the design with complementary seating walls nearby that close in the heat and ensure everyone has a place to enjoy the fire.