35 Fire Pit Ideas to Completely Transform Your Outdoor Space

Unique fire pit idea with seating

When it comes to getting set to move life outdoors, taking care of landscaping—like weeding and hedge pruning—may be a top priority. Yet, once the basics are taken care of, consider brightening up a space—literally. A fire pit can become a centerpiece of your outdoor space (sorry, flower and herb gardens). Surround the fire pit with cozy seating, and you've got a warm gathering spot for cocktails and marshmallow-roasting long after sunset.

These days, there are many fire pit options on the market—some you can DIY, while others, like in-ground fire pits, may be best left to a hard-scaping pro. Fire pit styles run the gamut, from simple and rustic brick options to contemporary and elegant. Whether you're working with a large or small backyard (or budget, for that matter), you'll likely warm up to one or more of these 35 fire pit ideas provided by pros.

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Common Fire Pit Materials

TL;DR: You have tons of options when choosing fire pit materials. "Fire pits can be made from many materials, including pavers, concrete, stone, metal and clay brick," says Joe Raboine, the vice president of design at Belgard. 

What's the best one for you? That depends.

"When selecting materials for fire pits, we consider factors such as durability, maintenance and harmony with the existing space," says Laura Brophy, the principal and creative director of Laura Brophy Interiors. "Stone fire pits offer a timeless, natural appeal, blending seamlessly with the landscape and proving enduring through seasonal changes. Metal options, including stainless steel, cast iron and copper, provide durability and a range of styles."

Is It Cheaper to Build or Buy a Fire Pit?

Buying a fire pit is typically cheaper, but each option has pros and cons.

"Building a custom fire pit allows for a design perfectly tailored to the space and the client's preferences, although it can be more costly and labor-intensive," Brophy explains. "Conversely, purchasing a pre-made fire pit is generally more budget-friendly and convenient, suitable for clients who favor simplicity and quick installation."

Ultimately, Brophy says this decision will hinge on your needs, budget and hopes for a fire pit.

Is an Outdoor Fire Pit Worth It?

Experts sure think so. "The value of an outdoor fire pit is significant, particularly for those who enjoy outdoor gatherings or want to extend their living space into cooler seasons," Brophy says. "A fire pit creates a warm, inviting focal point that enhances the ambiance and functionality of outdoor areas, making it a worthwhile addition in many scenarios."

It also may be worth it financially. Raboine points to a 2023 report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) that shows fire pits with a gas burner and patio area can yield more than a 50% ROI when a homeowner tries to sell.

What Is a Good Size Fire Pit for a Backyard?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. "The ideal size for a backyard fire pit depends on the backyard's dimensions and the client’s entertaining needs," Brophy says. 

Brophy says fire pits with 36-to-44-inch diameters generally leave enough space for guests to gather comfortably. Smaller ones, 24-to-30-inch diameters, are perfect for intimate settings and smaller areas.

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35 Fire Pit Ideas

1. Stylish stone

Raboine loves the timeless appeal of this fire pit. Its circular shape and tumbled-stone look provide instant warmth.

2. Primal and perfect

Thinking of installing an in-ground fire pit? You're in good company (and your company will love it). Raboine says in-ground fire pits create a "primal" effect—it looks like flames are genuinely erupting.

3. Table it

Raboine says gas fire tables look modern and offer convenience. They're ready-to-light, and the added surface area makes them multi-functional.

4. Wonderwall

Fire pits are prime real estate for sitting and chatting. Raboine shares that some come with built-in seating, creating a defined, functional area for gathering.

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5. Cozy and chic

This outdoor space has so many elements, yet it looks so simple. 

"This hangout spot is a favorite," Brophy says. "I love the built-in seating that really anchors the outdoor space as well as the mixture of materials used to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Since this project was finished, this space has become a favorite of our client's children as it is used to roast marshmallows for S'mores on summer evenings."

6. Gather the logistics

"Outdoor fire pits offer an ideal gathering spot for guests, but with the array of options, it can be hard to know where to begin," says Anne Colby, a Houzz home design expert.

First, you'll want to get clear on the type of fire pit you're permitted to have.

"Whether you want to purchase a ready-made model or work with a contractor to create a custom fire pit, make sure you’re clear on local regulations pertaining to outdoor fire pits before moving forward," Colby says. "From there, narrow down your options by determining your desired budget range, material, style, fuel type and location."

For instance, JMJ Studios designed the space with this fire pit at a San Francisco home. The structure is surrounded by a built-in bench and custom-colored concrete walls, pavers and Riverstone.

7. Casually cool

Sometimes, fire pits that blend in stand out.

"I love this fire pit design because it is so integrated into the lawn," says Betsy Vohs, the Studio BV founder and CEO. "It feels very casual and campfire-like and less formal than traditional fire pits. The fire pit can be seen by the deck and hot tub area—placement is key for maximizing the enjoyment."

8. Material world

In fire-prone Los Angeles, residents are limited to natural gas or propane fire pits. However, landscape designer Andrea Scharff lets the regulation spark her creative juices. 

"For vessels, there are so many options, like custom concrete structures or metal vessels that are repurposed as fire features," Scharff, the principal of Andrea Scharff Landscape Design says. "We can make them out of brick, masonry, stone or concrete. They create an instant gathering spot in the garden."

9. Aesthetically pleasing

"People like to be able to draw seating closer or push back to regulate their own comfort level," says Heather Hilliard of Heather Hilliard Design. "For ecological and aesthetic reasons, our clients typically choose plumbed gas-fired fire pits.

Hilliard says it's important to ensure that a pro can "pipe and plumb" the gas light into the hoped-for location.

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10. Fire pit to go

Headed to a fire pit-less pal's place? Moving? Bring the heat. 

"These fire bowls aren't fixed, so you can take them with you," says Melanie Rekola, a landscape designer.

Bonus: "They look sculptural even when they aren’t in use," Rekola says.

11. Instant gratification

Feeling gassed? No problem.

"Natural gas makes them so easy to use, even on a weeknight," Rekola says. "Just a flick of a switch and your fireside in an instant."

12. Make it a fireplace

Talk about bringing the indoors out. Opt for an outdoor fireplace for a luxe spin on fire pits. Mike Swanson, a fireplace expert for Heat & Glo, selected this custom outdoor fireplace for clients hoping to add luxury to their rooftop patio.

13. Sittervise in style

Rafi Friedman, the president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, says this gas model is the most popular with his clients.

"It provides an intimate seating area close to the pool but also relatively secluded, great for parents to sit and watch their kids play," Friedman says.

14. Cozy centerpiece

Put the fire pit front and center for soirees with long guest lists.

"This one is more of a focal point for larger gatherings," Friedman says. "The size and circular shape encourage people to sit around it and chat."

15. All decked out

An indoor-ish fire pit? You bet. Friedman calls this project an all-time favorite.

"Putting the fire pit inside the screen deck is doable with gas and makes the space that much more inviting," Friedman says.

16. Go gas

Claire Paquin of Clean Design always picks gas fire pits over wood-burning alternatives.

"The design options are endless, and the ease of being able to have a fire at the flick of a switch is unmatched," Paquin says.

Pun intended? Also: "If you have small children and pets running around, gas fire pits offer a safer alternative to wood-burning—you have less smoke and embers with a gas fire pit. You do not need to lug firewood around either," Paquin adds.

17. Comfy and charming

A cozy fire pit and equally comfy chairs make a fire pit the perfect gathering spot.

"We created an outdoor entertaining space for clients who wanted different conversation and entertaining areas in their backyard," Paquin says. "This built-in gas fire pit anchors the back patio flanked by three comfortable outdoor cushioned chairs."

18. Multi-use modernity

Clearly, this outdoor space—complete with a fire pit—is ready for a good time.

"We used a modern rectangle-shaped fire pit that can be used to place a drink on and also warm up as you sit on the sectional," Denise Davies, the founder of D2 Interieurs.

If you have a view—like this beautiful lake? All the better.

19. Built to last

Wood fire pits offer a natural ambiance. However, one fire pit pro agrees with other experts about the convenience of gas options. Still, there's nothing convenient about purchasing or building a new fire pit annually.

When building a gas fire pit, it's important that the gas supply components like the burner and fuel lines are built from corrosion-resistant materials like 304 stainless steel or brass, says Alex Wisnousky, the product manager of FirepitsDirect.com (part of the Spotix Family of Brands).

20. Be intentional

Anthony Carrino, an interior design ambassador for POLYWOOD, lives full-time in the city and has a mountain weekend hideaway. He uses these spaces differently and suggests people really hone in on their intention for their fire pit when choosing one.

In the city, he opted for the convenience of a propane fire pit table with an electric start. You'll peep a wood-burning fire pit in this photo of his mountain retreat.

"Obviously, this takes more time to get up and running, and also takes longer to burn down—you can't just turn it off—but you also get the snap, crackle, pop of the wood and that great smell from the wood," Carrino says, adding that it fits the intended use of his weekend getaway home, where life slows down.

21. Rugged resilience

This boulder fire table is durable and stylish—a blend of "rugged aesthetics and resilience," says Mitch Brean, the founder and lead designer of outdoor furniture manufacturer at Stone Yard, Inc.

"The bespoke centerpiece is an organic boulder that exudes rustic charm," Brean adds.

22. Earth, water & fire

Fire pits can make trips to your yard a mini-vacation.

"We love using fire pits in projects coast to coast for the instant warmth they add to properties," says Courtney B. Smith, the principal of Courtney B. Smith Design. "Beyond extending our use of outdoor spaces into cooler months, they help us create destinations in larger yards and add a glow that is loved by all."

23. Island life

Fire pits make the perfect addition to an outdoor kitchen, but you'll want to create a cohesive look.

"This gas fire pit has a polished granite coping to match the kitchen island," says Jeremy Martin, the owner/CEO of Willow Gates Landscaping.

24. Tiers to that

Martin says this fire pit had an intentional tiered effect.

"Besides the obvious aesthetics, it allows one to sit closer to the fire as the narrow base functions much like a toe kick in a kitchen," Martin explains.

25. Linear success

A small backyard inspired this custom linear fire pit.

"Since there wasn’t enough space to have traditional seating around the fire pit, custom benches were designed to surround the fire pit," Martin says. 

The seating area was built in an L-shape and included portable benches that the owners could add or take away as needed.

"The benches were built with solid PVC boards that match the fire pit block," Martin explains.

26. Hip to be square

Tiffany Kurilla, a National Fireplace Institute (NFI)-certified expert with Woodland Direct, loves the modern appeal of this square gas fire pit. Its smooth edges and concrete finish add a touch of laidback luxury.

27. Quality time and space

“This fire pit space anchors plenty of seating options to create a conversation zone separate from the outdoor dining area,” says Michelle Hendricks, the category marketing manager with Deckorators.

The integrated bench was made using the same material as the deck, tying the whole look together while also saving precious surface area in a smaller space.

28. Elevated entertaining

Lauren Lerner, the CEO and founder of Living with Lolo, adores this cement fire pit, which was designed especially to fit this entertaining space.

"Its elevated height and wide edge make it convenient for placing drinks and snacks when gathering with friends and family," Lerner says.

29. Bring on the heat

If you live in a red-hot climate, you may hesitate to spring for a fire pit. This spot designed by Arizona-based Lerner offers a cool solution: Travertine pavers, which don't retain heat and keep cool to the touch.

30. Balancing act

Joshua Smith, the principal and founder of Josh Smith Inc., loves how fire pits can up the ambiance and provide warmth on cool evenings.

"This fire pit was custom designed when we renovated this project," Smith says. 

Smith and his team ran a gas line to the spot to avoid fussing with wood and party-crashing amounts of smoke. The circular shape allows for optimal flow for gathering and moving about.

"We pulled in the texture from the exterior structure for cohesiveness and balance in the yard," Smith adds.

31. Expansion era

Brad Ramsey, the principal and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors, helped transform this outdoor space.

"We converted a rain garden area of the yard to the fire pit with the addition of the rocks and pavers," Ramsey says. "This way, the ground drainage is still functional, but it can also be enjoyed as an entertaining area complete with a fire pit and Adirondack chairs. Just steps away from the pool, adding this additional space really expanded the use of a long and narrow backyard."

32. Neutral ground

Talk about leaning into your surroundings.

"Inspired by the mountainous backdrop, this outdoor space’s neutral color pallet is complimented by a modern, black rectangular fire pit table, creating an elevated look and feel," Leslie Adkins, the group vice president of marketing and ESG Development for Trex Company.

33. Space savers

Using a multi-purpose fire table is a way to save surface area.

"In this simple yet luxurious design, the wicker fire pit table with a stainless glass surface doubles as a coffee table, making it the perfect option for those low on space," Adkins says.

34. Cleaning house

"The modern, sleek design of this fire bowl elevates the feel of this paver patio sitting area," says Aaron Brundage, the director of operations at System Pavers. "It’s a clean burning gas fire pit with decorative glass stones, and we especially love that they matched their outdoor pillows to the glass to tie their whole look together."

35. Outdoor living...

...at its finest.

"This fire pit and seating area with outdoor television is a great example of how to turn your yard into a living space that dramatically improves the functionality of your property," Brundage says. "It was inspired by the homeowner’s fond memories of watching movies outside as a kid and recreates that cozy feel in a space that can be easily shared with friends and family for generations."

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Expert Sources

• Joe Raboine, the vice president of design at Belgard

• Laura Brophy, the principal and creative director of Laura Brophy Interiors

• Anne Colby, a Houzz home design expert

• Betsy Vohs, the Studio BV founder and CEO

• Andrea Scharff, the principal of Andrea Scharff Landscape Design

• Heather Hilliard of Heather Hilliard Design

• Melanie Rekola, a landscape designer

• Mike Swanson, a fireplace expert for Heat & Glo

• Claire Paquin of Clean Design

• Rafi Friedman, the President of Coastal Luxury Outdoors

• Denise Davies, the founder of D2 Interieurs

• Mitch Brean, the founder and lead designer of outdoor furniture manufacturer at Stone Yard, Inc

• Michelle Hendricks, the category marketing manager with Deckorators

• Lauren Lerner, the CEO and founder of Living with Lolo

• Joshua Smith, the principal and founder of Josh Smith Inc.

• Brad Ramsey, the principal and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors, helped transform this outdoor space

• Leslie Adkins, the group vice president of marketing and ESG Development for Trex Company.

• Aaron Brundage, the director of operations at System Pavers

• Alex Wisnousky, the product manager of FirepitsDirect.com (part of the Spotix Family of Brands)

• Tiffany Kurilla, a National Fireplace Institute (NFI)-certified expert with Woodland Direct