Exploring Fire Pits with David Domoney
7 April 2021
Firepits
As we head into spring and the evenings draw out, we want to make the most of our outdoor spaces. But as evening settles, the temperatures begin to drop. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t continue to use your garden patio as a spot for relaxation. Creating a fire pit in your garden will add a dynamic feature that will bring plenty of warmth.
Turning up the Heat
Raised fire pits are a functional feature for the garden, also bringing height and more interest to the space.
Around Fire
Circular fire spaces are incredibly popular and create a soft, attractive shape to highlight the cosiness of the space. On the other hand, a square fire pit can fit the clean-cut edges of a contemporary garden. Alternatively, opt for a long rectangular pit if you have a long, slim space. Bear in mind that you’ll need surrounding space for seating, so the shape and size you choose must be practical.
Squared Seating
Selecting seating for around the pit is a great way of emphasising the space as a social area. A curved bench around a circular fire pit will have a striking effect. It’ll cohesively bring the elements together, allowing you and your guests to sit comfortably and keep warm on a cool evening. Straight rows of seating can frame a square fire pit for a modern layout. Even mixing up the shapes can have a stunning impact. For example, a round structure with squared seating can combine different shape elements to draw further attention to the feature.
Safety rules
Deciding on the position of your pit is an important first step. It needs to be located somewhere that is several metres away from any buildings, trees, and fences. So, ensure there are no hanging branches above the spot you have picked. This will help to reduce the risk of fires spreading from sparks flying.
Taking Care
Although the fire pit can be a main feature in your garden, it may not be practical to have it in the centre of your lawn. Instead, strike a balance between safety and practicality. Choose somewhere that’s not going to get in the way of any garden games or waste any precious floor space. Starting with a flat foundation is also key. So, ensure the position you choose is relatively flat – although slight unlevel areas can be fixed during the building process.
Functional fire pit
If you are opting for a pre-made free-standing fire pit, give it the perfect base of patio stones by using a Natural Stone Circle Feature to create a fantastic focal point. The sandy tones mixed with dark hues of Mystical Feature Circles will add intrigue to your garden paving, with plenty more interest when topped with a fire pit as a feature.
The Build
To build a square fire pit, line three fire bricks in a row. Add a brick at the end on a right angle to form the second side of the square. When lining them up, allow around 5mm between each brick to encourage air flow. Firebricks are important for the inners square as they are made to cope with the high temperatures without cracking. Repeat a line of three bricks, adding a brick at a right angle until a square has been created.
Practical Tips
The outer square can be built using decorative natural stone bricks to match your aesthetic like Burford Walling to add character. Adding a second line of bricks ensures the structure is robust. Once you’re happy with the shape, size, structure, mark around the perimeter with a spade, remove the bricks, then dig out the turf, ensuring the ground is level. In the centre of the square, dig another hole that is 20 x 30cm, before filling it with gravel to aid drainage.
Next, the bricks can be lined back up in position to form the level inner and outer squares. Add a further three layers of bricks on top to add height, with the bricks overlapped to create a sturdy structure. When the arrangement is level, add a layer of driveway gravel to the bottom of the fire pit to cover the base. Then you’re good to go!
Garden oasis
Once you’ve created your DIY fire pit and decided on your seating to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of your garden, you can embellish the space.
Tie together your garden design seamlessly by picking blankets and cushions that fit your garden style, whether that’s monochrome, cottage, or bohemian styled. Not only will these elements help your fire pit space to look the part, but they’ll help to give you comfort and cosiness on a cool evening, all year round.
Lighting
Finish the area with lighting options that will further enhance the space. Hanging lights surrounding the seating will create an enchanting atmosphere. Or choose solar power lanterns that will add further warmth with orange tones.
Once you’ve got your fire pit designed, built, and decorated, you’re set for evenings around the fire all year round. Perfect for summer soirees, cosy autumn nights, and warm winter evenings watching the stars.
This month I've selected a particular favourite video of mine which features a stunning patio area and whilst it doesn't have a fire pit, it does have 'fire' present in the form of a stylish barbeque and wood burning oven.
There are many more inspirational garden videos featured here for you to explore.
I look forward to seeing you back again next month.
David Domoney, TV gardener, horticultural expert and Pavestone brand ambassador blogs monthly on the Pavestone website on all things landscaping related.