Firepit ideas to inspire your 2024 project

With a variety of firepit ideas, styles, and designs available, it’s possible to create an attractive and cosy setting that forms a natural extension of your indoor space.

In this post, you’ll be sure to find a firepit design suited to your garden style so that you can enjoy your outdoor space in comfort long into the evening.

Outdoor fire pit ideas

The primary purpose of a firepit is to provide a source of heat. But just like an indoor fireplace, they also create a natural focal point for a seating area where people gather and socialise.

And as an alfresco lounge space, there’s no reason why your firepit can’t complement your garden style and personal taste.

In this section, we’ll look at a selection of firepit area ideas to inspire your ideal outdoor space.

Sunken fire pit area

The sunken fire pit is the ultimate in contemporary cool.

It forms a unique focal point within your outdoor space, with the lowered area creating a sense of enclosure and privacy.

The added benefit of a sunken fire pit is that it doesn’t obstruct views of the garden.

Brick fire pit ideas

A brick fire pit suits all styles of outdoor space and blends effortlessly with various architectural styles.

Whether you take a DIY approach to building your brick fire pit, or call in the professionals, you’ll be able to create a structure to suit your exact taste.

Bricks also have a natural warmth to them, making a brick fire pit area both welcoming and inviting.

Rustic fire pit ideas

A rustic fire pit has a natural charm to it, with the materials you choose helping to create an earthy and organic feel.

The irregular shapes and textures often used within rustic fire pits add character, perfect for creating a cosy, informal space for guests to relax and enjoy.

Fire pit seating ideas

The idea behind a firepit is to create a space where you and your guests can relax and socialise. Therefore a major factor to consider is comfortable seating!

• Comfort – cushioned chairs, outdoor sofas, or weather-resistant bean bags. Choose seating that suits your style, but is also comfortable for your guests
• Space – consider the size of your firepit area and the number of people you expect to accommodate. A combination of fixed seating, e.g. built-in benches, and movable seating offers the greatest flexibility
• Placement and safety – position your seating at an appropriate distance from the fire pit for safety and comfort. Factor in the smoke and heat that may emanate from the fire and position seating upwind

Top tips when planning fire pit designs

Just like a living room fireplace, while this is often the focal point, it’s not the only item in the room.

When plotting your interior design plans, you’ll likely include some houseplants, soft furnishings, and ambient lighting, all set against your desired colour scheme.

Planning a fire pit design should be no different if you want to create a cohesive and inviting space.

Here’s the secret to creating the perfect firepit for your needs:

1. Create ambience

Enhance the atmosphere around your fire pit area with ambient outdoor lighting.

• Fairy lights, lanterns, and solar-powered lights will create an enchanting glow
• Sufficient lighting will also increase visibility after dark – an important safety consideration

Carefully selected plants will help to provide privacy, create a cosy atmosphere, and add a different textural element too. Palms, ferns, bamboo, and yukka plants can withstand the heat from a nearby firepit. While fragrant lavender and sage will add to the senses.

2. Consider comfort

Once you’ve selected the ideal seating for your fire pit area, think about how you can elevate the comfort levels:

• A selection of cushions and a basket of blankets will keep your guests warm and cosy as the temperature dips
• Don’t forget some side tables for the convenient placement of beverages and snacks

3. Prioritise safety

Where you position your fire pit should be carefully considered:

• Place the firepit on a natural surface such as concrete, stone, gravel, or brick, or on a fire-resistant composite
• Try to avoid putting it on a wooden surface such as decking, where a spark or flying ember could start an uncontained fire
• Make sure it’s far enough away from your and neighbouring properties and trees
• Consider the safety precautions you need to take to protect young children and pets, for example, a fire pit guard to protect against flying sparks
• It’s recommended to have a fire extinguisher and a water source nearby for emergencies

Find an experienced landscaper to help create your dream firepit area

Enter your postcode into our leading directory to find highly qualified, approved landscapers in your area.

The Checkatrade guarantee

With our free guarantee, your job is covered for up to 12 months to the value of £1,000*.

To make sure your job is guaranteed, simply follow these three steps:

1. Book through Checkatrade

Use the member’s Checkatrade contact details to get in touch so we can register your job.

2. Keep a record of your job

If you need to claim, we’ll ask for more details.

3. Leave a review

When your job is done, leave a Checkatrade review.

*Other eligibility criteria and T&Cs apply.