Backyard Fireplaces
Photos of creative design ideas
Looking for something a little different than a traditional outdoor fireplace? Here is a collection of creative approaches to the traditional brick and mortar fireplace that are sure to generate unique ideas.
The height of this fireplace commands your attention. Rising past the second story of the home to which it is attached, the stone-clad fireplace is strikingly simple. Large windows flank the lower portion of the fireplace, while a blanket of gravel provides a space for gathering around the flames.
Reaching extreme heights with an outdoor fireplace is much easier when attached to the exterior of a structure. If you want a freestanding fireplace, you’ll have to decrease the height considerably to meet code and be in scale with the surroundings.
This modern fire feature is a hybrid fireplace. It has a grand presence like a fireplace, yet there is no chimney. A brick and gabion wall lined with steel provides a backdrop for gas-fueled flames. A cantilevered piece of cast concrete serves as a wrap-around hearth.
If you want to go with a fireplace without a chimney keep in mind that embers and sparks are hard to control. For this reason, gas is the best option for this type of application. Chimney-less fireplaces are great for small yards because they won’t overwhelm the space.
Most fireplaces are only accessible from one side, but this one can be enjoyed from two sides. One side has a lounge like atmosphere with swanky furniture and a roof over head, while the other is open to a sun-soaked pool deck with chaise lounges nearby. You can pick a side depending on the mood of the gathering. For a romantic evening, the covered side is perfect. For a fun gathering with kids the open-air side works well. For large gatherings, both sides of the fireplace can be enjoyed simultaneously.
Sometimes all it takes to be unique is a little color. This Spanish-inspired fireplace was coverd in a lively shade of coral stucco. A hand-painted tile inlay above the mantel adds more eclectic authenticity. This is an affordable way to get a unique feature in your backyard. The friendly color will draw people in by day and the warm flames will draw them in by night.
For those that love the Southwest, this may be the perfect backyard fireplace option. Inspired by a traditional adobe kiva-style fireplace, it has a round shape with an arched firebox opening. Wrought iron, wood and stone accents complement the design, while low walls provide extra seating.
The position of this fireplace was carefully selected to take advantage of the views of the valley. Cut outs in the wall provide glimpses of the scenery beyond. When selecting a spot for your own outdoor fireplace, start by considering nighttime views because this is when you will most likely be using the fireplace.
If space is a concern, a corner fireplace can be a great solution. The 90-degree angle will fit nicely into the corner of a square lot without wasting any space. Another benefit of a corner fireplace is that the heat comes from two sides, creating a pocket of warmth between the walls of the fireplace.
This fireplace has a rectilinear design and is covered in stone veneer. Because it is gas fueled a chimney was not required, instead vents in the back of the structure allow warm air to escape. Lighting installed in the upper corners of the fireplace can provide additional illumination if the glow from the flames is not enough.
We see brick and stone fireplaces on a regular basis, but have you ever seen a steel one? Metal is not the first material most homeowners think of when having an outdoor fireplace installed, but it can make for a unique focal point. This fireplace, which has been covered in corten steel, is attached to an exterior wall and has a concrete hearth. Corten steel is known for its weathered appearance and earthy color.
This fireplace is unique because of the living picture that was created above its mantel. A series of specialized planting trays were built into the face of the fireplace and planted with various succulents and dwarf grasses. It appears as if a large living tapestry has been hung on the fireplace.
If you are having a new fireplace built, a living wall feature can be integrated at the time of construction. If you have an existing fireplace, a similar look can be achieved by hanging a series of framed trays with heavy duty anchors.
Return to Outdoor Fireplaces
