66 Fire Pit and Outdoor Fireplace Ideas

Find ideas for outdoor fire pit and fireplace designs that let you get as simple or as fancy as your time and budget allow,

By: Watson Hawkins

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DIND401_after-firepit-chairs_s4x3

After the origin of controlled fire — ohh, couple-a-four-hundred-thousand years ago — you have to believe the creation of the fire pit soon followed. And here you sit with an empty backyard, save for the gas grill on your patio.You’ve had plenty of time to stop thinking about a fire pit and start building a fire pit. Lucky for you, fire pit design has evolved in extraordinary directions and you can get as simple or as fancy as your time and budget allow.

Fire Pit Design Ideas

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Perfect Layout

U-shaped seating surrounds a rectangular fire box, allowing everyone to feel the heat.

Photo By: Martin Klimek/Getty Images

Weather Is Not an Issue

By putting the fire pit underneath the gazebo, these homeowners can still enjoy a fire when it's raining.

Photo By: Kenneth Gabrielsen / Getty Images

Keeping It Real

The building materials used in this outdoor space keep a natural and earthy feel: the crushed stone underneath the fire pit, the rustic picnic table atop the paver patio and the natural stone fire circle.

Fire Sculpture

This gas fire pit is a work of art as well as a source of heat.

Photo By: Martin Klimek/Getty Images

Paris Hilton's Old Stomping Grounds

This Hollywood regency-style home was once owned by the popular celebrity. Maybe she used the sunken fire pit to keep her toes warm while she lounged and looked up at the stars.

Photo By: Stephanie Diani / Getty Images

Curlicues and Coziness

Rows of hydrangeas, statuesque urns and a bluestone fire pit topped with elegant scrollwork create a classy and serene setting. Click to the next slide to see the vintage metalwork up close.

Photo By: Martin Klimek/Getty Images

Add a Little Personality to Your Pit

These homeowners did so by topping their stone fire box with vintage metalwork.

Photo By: Martin Klimek/Getty Images

Modern Chiminea

Put together two chairs, a Palm Springs color palette, a shapely fire urn and a couple glasses of Merlot, and you're bound to evoke some meaningful conversations.

Fire Wall

Instead of a fire bowl or fire pit, these homeowners went long with a wall of fire. Inside the fire wall sits the basin of a glass-tiled water feature. Click to the next slide to see a full view of the yard.

Photo By: Martin Klimek/Getty Images

Mediterranean-Style Chill

Take a dip in the pool, then grab a towel and walk through the lush landscape over to the fire-and-water wall. Sit back, relax and enjoy.

Photo By: Martin Klimek/Getty Images

Borrowed From Civic Engineering

A Jamie Durie original design, the gabion fire feature adds an unexpected element to an already stunning setting. Gabion is an Italian word that means a cage filled with rocks. It is a method of building commonly used to make large highway retaining walls and dams.

Photo By: Jamie Rector

Fire Pit Coffee Table

In this Jamie Durie design, the gabion is used again, but this time for a tree and plantings. The gabion balances perfectly with the inviting outdoor living room.

Photo By: Jamie Rector

Eco-Friendly Industrial

This unique gas-powered fire feature sits atop a slab of concrete. The gas line was run through the corrugated metal pipe and covered with lava rocks. This whole backyard was done with recycled and industrial materials — the raised garden bed and privacy fence were upcycled from old shipping pallets.

Photo By: Martin Klimek/Getty Images

Small But Sexy

This urban patio features a recessed fire pit and open roof with shade cloths.

The Perfect Place for a Portable Fire Pit

Who doesn't want to listen to the sound of water cascading down a waterfall and coming out the side of a dock? Add a toasty fire pit, and serenity is sure to follow.

Sunken Conversation Pit

Even a small yard will feel bigger if it is terraced or multileveled. This recessed living space focused around a fire pit and set off with large planters seems like an exclusive inner circle in which you need a special invite.

Cape Cod Quaint

The backyard of this New England beach cottage is a wicked-cool gathering spot for family and friends.

Photo By: DarrenMcCollester/Getty Images

Use an Old Vessel

This unique fire pit is a replica of a 19th-century syrup kettle made by local artisans.

Metal Wall to Reflect the Flames

Corrugated metal is used to build a privacy wall and create a backdrop for a fun gathering space. To make the unusual fire pit, a gas line was run through the recycled metal bucket then filled with lava rock.

Swirls of Color

The hefty metal fire ring is half encircled by an even heftier concrete seating area. Add vibrant throw pillows and cushions to soften it all up and you're ready for a party.

Seating Is Important

If romance is your intention, make sure you've got a plush lounge sitting fireside.

Photo By: Aaron Rapoport

Wall and Pit in One

This circular fire pit was cleverly built right into the retaining wall, which is perfect when you get up close to the heat.

Outdoor Living Spaces

This yard is well segregated by purpose. The very functional cooking area is next to the house (which is handy), the dining area is off to the side, and the step-down living area is focused around the built-in fire box.

Gather Round

Planning a deck remodel? Consider adding this stacked stone beauty to the plans. Pro tip: check safety guidelines and consult a contractor before building.

Here at DIY, we tend to gravitate toward the more dynamic and dramatic fire pits and outdoor fireplaces.

Amazing Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits

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Keep in mind that fire pits don't take up a lot of space, and combined with their functionality, can be featured almost anywhere in unlimited shapes and sizes. Some of the fire pits below are straight out of the box with minimal-to-zero installation. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter and know your local codes governing fire pits — safety first!

And Even More Fire Pits

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Points to The View

Design by Mark Silva

From: Mark Silva

Photo By: Craig Jones

Convenient Log Storage

Pergola from DIY Network's Blog Cabin 2014

Sunken Fire Pit in the Mountains

This a firepit at Ushuata botanical gardens in the heart of the North Carolina mountains.

Photo By: Photo Credit: Mary Palmer Dargan © Gibbs Smith, Lifelong Landscape Design, Mary Palmer Dargan

Fire and Water

Design by Mitch Kalamian

Star Light Star Bright

As the sun sets, interior lighting illuminates the backyard, setting a relaxed ambiance for family and friends to gather on the patio.

Photo By: Eric Perry

Circular Designs

Design by Steve Appolloni

Jungle Inspired

Design by Scott Cohen

Photo By: Design by Scott Cohen

Just Gorgeous

A large wooden chandelier and gorgeous stone fireplace lend a rustic feel to this chic outdoor living space. A small sofa and two armchairs provide seating.

From: Julie Dodson

Photo By: Julie Dodson

Posh Pit

This contemporary patio design is a great place for entertaining, featuring a fire pit area surrounded by bench seating, accented by lush landscape.

From: Willis Allen Real Estate

Photo By: Willis Allen Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International

Natural Stone Meets Modern Home

Design by Alderwood Landscaping

From: Alderwood Landscaping

Photo By: Picasa

Poolside

Design by Mitch Kalamian

Double-Sided Fireplace

Outdoor sitting area with chairs, round table, fireplace with screen and stone design and seating area next to the pool.

Outdoor Sectional

Licensed contractor Matt Blashaw and his Yard Crasher crew helped to build this fire pit which sets on a stained redwood deck with a privacy wall. The cozy sectional sofa and pop of color throw pillows make this space cozy and comfy for all to enjoy!

Quad Fire Strips

At the 2012 HGTV Dream Home in Park City, Utah, a modern fire pit area, connected to interior spaces via boardwalks, invites relaxation. Four separate gas units comprise the modern fire pit design. The Utah limestone-clad column is topped in a surface of limestone.

Minimal and Modern Style

Wooden benches wind through a modern, minimalist backyard. A white fire pit creates a cozy and inviting space, perfect for entertaining through the night.

Rockers by The Fire

The stone fireplace with a roaring fire invites guest to relax in the rocking chairs and enjoy the beautiful gardens.

Spirals

A well planned circular patio to accommodate a beautiful backyard fire pit.

Photo By: Neil Podoll

Fireplace Wall

Design by Mitch Kalamian

Take the Chill Off

Enjoy the snowy scenic views in this outdoor entertaining area with a curved wooden bench, a fire pit and a stone patio.

From: Mary Anne Smiley

Walkway Leads to Warmth

The beautiful walking path that leads you up to the fit-pit that sits 14.

Photo By: Photography by Jeff Romaniuk

Fireplace Deck

Design by Keith Summerour

Photo By: Design by Keith Summerour

All-Stone Patio

Design by Robert Hursthouse

Vertical Stones

The stone patio is large enough to accommodate multiple sitting areas and opens up to an expansive back yard.

Infinity Fire Pit

Taking full advantage of its gorgeous desert setting, this home's porch and patio feature wide open expanses, an infinity pool and a fire pit. The stonework echoes the neutral colors of the landscape.

From: Tor Stuart (Barstad)

Photo By: Tor Barstad

Fireplace + Pizza Oven

This outdoor patio with its exterior detailing, dramatic stone fireplace, built-in grill and seating is the perfect setting for wining and dining with friends and family.

From: Luxury Portfolio International®

Photo By: Intero Real Estate Services, Inc., a member of Luxury Portfolio International

Old World Romantic

A stone bench topped with flagstone pavers runs alongside a stone fireplace for additional seating in this outdoor space. Green cushions provide comfortable seating and complement the lush green ivy covering the top of the fireplace.

From: Jamie Durie

Contemporary Hacienda

Design by Becker Studios

From: Becker Studios

Photo By: Jim Bartsch for Becker Studios

Replica of a 19th-Century Syrup Kettle

This unique fire pit is a replica of a 19th-century syrup kettle made by local artisans.

Warm Up After Taking a Dip

This backyard space has an impressive swimming pool and fire pit that is an inviting space perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.

From: Luxury Portfolio International®

Photo By: Dilbeck Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International

Eye-Level Fireplace

A simple, table with clean lines and a beautiful stone fireplace keep the breathtaking views front and center in this modern outdoor dining area. (HGTV Dream Home 2011)

Garden Fire Pit

Design by Robert Hursthouse

Hillside Fire Pit

Design by Katrina Leondov Fairchild

Hot Tub Sidekick

Designed by the homeowners, this gorgeous pool includes serpentine curves of beautiful stone, as well as a grotto, spa and fire pit.

Photo By: HGTV fan CiaoTag

Fireplace Table

New deck with handrails, red accent wall and two sided fireplace as featured on Yard Crashers.

Courtyard Fireplace

From this point of view you can see how the newly designed courtyard on the lower level of the yard is a self-contained outdoor room with a fireplace, raised beds, and a center area for entertaining. The stunning stonework along the right side is both decorative and functional and features an open archway with a view into the lower lot where a small Greek temple is situated.

Photo By: Sylvia and Tim Small

Of course, setting up a store-bought fire pit isn't nearly as fun or satisfying as installing your own. Check out the video below with complete step-by-step — from the first mark to finishing touches — for building a circular fieldstone fire pit, and browse more fire pit how-to videos if you're looking for a different style. Imagine being done in a day and relaxing by your fire as fall leaves flutter to the ground. Aah — those first fire-starters just didn't know how to chill like this.

How to Build a Stone Fire Pit 04:36

Add a stone fire pit to your backyard with these step-by-step instructions.

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DIY Network Blog: Made + Remade

66 Fire Pit and Outdoor Fireplace Ideas

Related To:

DIND401_after-firepit-chairs_s4x3

Perfect Layout

Weather Is Not an Issue

Keeping It Real

Fire Sculpture

Paris Hilton's Old Stomping Grounds

Curlicues and Coziness

Add a Little Personality to Your Pit

Modern Chiminea

Fire Wall

Mediterranean-Style Chill

Borrowed From Civic Engineering

Fire Pit Coffee Table

Eco-Friendly Industrial

Small But Sexy

The Perfect Place for a Portable Fire Pit

Sunken Conversation Pit

Cape Cod Quaint

Use an Old Vessel

Metal Wall to Reflect the Flames

Swirls of Color

Seating Is Important

Wall and Pit in One

Outdoor Living Spaces

Gather Round

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Urban Spa Deck"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Backyard Bar"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Vegas Water Table"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Draining Patio"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Woodsy Spa Retreat"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Woodsy Spa Retreat"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Cobble Driveway Patio"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Cobble Driveway Patio"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "A River Runs Through It"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "A River Runs Through It"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Waterfall Grill"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Rock Yard"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Outdoor Shower"

Featured in Yard Crashers episode "Eco-Friendly Outdoor Kitchen"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Eat-out Kitchen"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Eat-out Kitchen"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Outdoor Den"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Outdoor Office Lounge"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Southern California Master Bath"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Home Plate Hangout"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Home Plate Hangout"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Desert Hideaway"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Great Plains Party Room"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Great Plains Party Room"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Decked Out Den"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Decked Out Den"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Decked Out Den"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Greek Isle Getaway"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Southern Style Family Room"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Southern Style Family Room"

Featured in Indoors Out episode "Omaha Onyx Party Room"

Points to The View

Convenient Log Storage

Sunken Fire Pit in the Mountains

Fire and Water

Star Light Star Bright

Circular Designs

Jungle Inspired

Just Gorgeous

Posh Pit

Natural Stone Meets Modern Home

Poolside

Double-Sided Fireplace

Outdoor Sectional

Quad Fire Strips

Minimal and Modern Style

Rockers by The Fire

Spirals

Fireplace Wall

Take the Chill Off