Tis the season for outdoor fireplaces! Some of us are starting to feel a slight chill in the air, and some of us probably need to wait a bit longer. Either way, what better way to enjoy crisp weather than next to a gorgeous exterior fireplace? Without a doubt, they are a striking focal point for a patio or backyard, but they also serve as a wonderful gathering spot with guests. Naturally, they also draw attention and encourage others to relax, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors in any season.
Fireplaces are great to set the ambience with the glow of the flames, adding warmth in both light and heat. Whether you’re seeking a sleek, modern look, or a rustic, traditional vibe, outdoor fireplaces can elevate your space into an inviting retreat perfect for relaxing or entertaining year-round.
Not quite ready for a fireplace, but are looking for an easy transformation? Our paint visualizer package may be just what you need! If you do need help with other aspects of your exterior, we’ve got you covered there too. We can assist with visualizing design elements such as siding, windows, and much more. Learn all about our virtual exterior design services.
Our designers only use and recommend products that we know, love, or would use on our own properties. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Versatility and convenience
Whether built-in or freestanding, fireplaces add warmth and charm to a home’s exterior, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to extend their living space beyond the walls of their home.
One of the most appealing aspects of outdoor fireplaces is their versatility. They come in a wide range of designs, materials, and sizes, allowing you to customize your outdoor space to suit your personal style and needs. From traditional wood-burning fireplaces that crackle and pop to gas-powered options that ignite with the flip of a switch, there’s a type for every lifestyle.
An outdoor fireplace can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. Some popular ideas are to incorporate features like built-in seating, storage for firewood, or even a pizza oven for added functionality.
WE ALWAYS RECOMMEND SAMPLING AND TESTING PAINT COLORS BEFORE COMMITTING. FACTORS SUCH AS NATURAL LIGHTING, UNDERTONES, AND YOUR PROPERTY’S FIXED ELEMENTS WILL HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON HOW A COLOR WILL APPEAR ON YOUR EXTERIOR. OUR FRIENDS AT SAMPLIZE OFFER EXTRA-LARGE 9 X 14.75 INCH PEEL-AND-STICK PAINT SAMPLES OF THE COLORS WE LOVE FOR EXTERIORS. ORDER YOUR ‘REAL PAINT, NO MESS’ SAMPLES FROM SAMPLIZE HERE.
Benefits
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, outdoor fireplaces offer practical benefits too. They extend the use of your backyard into the cooler months, providing a cozy spot to gather with friends and family. Furthermore, fireplaces also create a sense of enclosure and privacy, helping to define your outdoor space and make it feel more like an open-air room.
The right fireplace can turn your backyard into the favorite ‘room’ of the house – a place to enjoy evenings outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Or, if you enjoy hosting, the exterior fireplace creates an inviting extension of your home’s interior where family and friends can gather, dine, and relax.
Architectural styles of outdoor fireplaces
The architectural style of an outdoor fireplace can dramatically influence the overall look of your backyard. From traditional to contemporary, the style you choose sets the tone for the entire space.
Traditional fireplaces
Traditional fireplaces often feature classic brick or stone design, intricate mantels, and chimney stacks that mimic the look of an indoor hearth. This style is perfect for those seeking a timeless design and is a great choice for cottages and mountain homes.
Modern fireplaces
Modern designs are all about clean lines, minimalist forms, and often incorporate materials like concrete, glass, or metal. These fireplaces typically feature a sleek, linear look and can be built into walls or stand alone as sculptural elements. Modern fireplaces fit well with contemporary homes, providing an extra element of sophistication to your outdoor space.
Mediterranean fireplaces
These fireplaces often feature stucco finishes, rounded arches, and intricate telework. They evoke a sense of warmth and old-world charm, making them a popular choice for outdoor spaces with lush landscaping, terra cotta accents, and vibrant colors.
Farmhouse and rustic fireplaces
Rustic fireplaces embrace natural textures like stacked stone or reclaimed wood mantels. They often have a rugged, hand-crafted appearance that add a touch of nostalgia and a connection to nature. Pairing these fireplaces with outdoor furniture and wood or wrought iron enhances the down-to-earth feel. We love to see this style on farmhouses, embracing natural materials and imperfections.
Building materials for outdoor fireplaces
Choosing the right materials for your outdoor fireplace is crucial, as it not only affects the look, but also the durability and maintenance of the structure.
First, brick is a classic choice for a traditional and rustic design. It boasts durability and timeless appeal. Leave it in its natural red hue, paint it, or lime wash it for a customized look.
Natural stone like limestone, slate, or bluestone offer a beautiful, organic look that blends seamlessly with outdoor environments. Stone materials suit rustic, traditional, and even modern designs, depending on how they are cut and laid. Each stone type offers its own unique color and texture, adding depth and character.
Next, stucco is a versatile and cost-effective material that works well with Mediterranean, Spanish, or modern styles. Its smooth finish can be tinted in various shades. This makes it easy to match the overall color scheme of your home and garden.
Add an interesting and contemporary touch by using metals like steel and copper. These durable materials sculpt into dramatic shapes. Over time, metals develop a patina, adding even more character to the fireplace.
Finally, concrete is another favorite for modern homes. It can be molded into sleek, angular shapes or smoothed out for curves and a more artistic form. It’s highly durable and can be polished, stained, or left raw for an industrial look. Concrete fireplaces often make bold statements.
Not so outdoor fireplaces
One idea we love is an exterior fireplace in a screened porch. This is a fantastic option for those that live in southern states where the mosquitos and bugs are still buzzing into the early cold months. Or, if you live in a particularly rainy area, this is a great solution to still enjoy your backyard and a fireplace, even when the weather isn’t the best. The home above has a screened porch with a dining area, perfect for entertaining.
The bottom line on outdoor fireplaces
One of the best ways to enjoy being outside when the weather turns cold is being next to a warm and inviting fireplace. We love this exterior feature for its ability to fit into any house style. By selecting the right style and materials, your outdoor fireplace can reflect your home’s architecture. It can enhance your backyard’s aesthetic, and create a cozy, functional space that extends the comfort of your indoor living area to the great outdoors.
Additionally, outdoor fireplaces have an undeniable lure where people tend to gather and commingle. It’s the perfect way to bring people together, set the tone for the evening, and bring a smile of relief to cold faces.
Ready to get cozy with your own outdoor fireplace? Not sure how to incorporate one into your current home’s design? All we need are your answers to our short questionnaire for our designers to get started creating a custom design. We’ll even provide a shoppable resource list so getting started is as easy as clicking a few links. Get started here.
Subscribe for more content like this!
