Designing an outdoor space that’s both functional and inviting starts with thoughtful planning. If you’re unsure where to start or how to incorporate a fireplace, asking an experienced Landscape Designer is a good place to start.
To help you create an outdoor fireplace that serves as a stunning focal point and seamless addition to your outdoor living area, we caught up with Darin Bradbury of Mint Design who shares his top four tips. Here's what he had to say:
1. The Importance of Timing: When to Decide on Including an Outdoor Fireplace
Including a fireplace should be done right from the start of the landscape design process. The fireplace is a functional, destination area in your landscape so it shouldn’t be an afterthought. Design it well and it will get used more often and become a significant visual feature in your landscape. If it’s an afterthought, you run the risk of spending money on something that is rarely used.
2. Strategic Fireplace Placement: Creating a Visible and Accessible Gathering Spot
Locate the fireplace so that it’s close to the outdoor entertaining areas - it should be visible, enticing, and accessible enough to carry things out to the area. You will often want to take things out to a fireplace such as food and drink, marshmallows, chairs and cushions, so you want it close enough that it’s not a chore to do so. Make sure there’s plenty of space for seating and if possible, make that seating soft and inviting.
3. Fireplace Surround Choice: Material Options and Complementing your Landscape
Durability is always the key with outdoor materials. Tile, brick, stone and concrete are classic materials for fireplace surrounds. As long as it lasts in all weather conditions and is not flammable then it can be used. Beyond that, keep in mind that fireplaces are significant features in the landscape, so the surrounding materials will need to be aesthetically pleasing and compliment the look and feel of the architecture and surrounding landscape.
4. The Evolution of Outdoor Spaces: Emerging Trends for Families
As houses grow larger, gardens are naturally becoming smaller, yet clients’ wishlists keep expanding. This shift is driving demand for multi-functional outdoor products that maximise space without sacrificing style or utility. The Escea EW5000 Outdoor Cooking Fireplace is a perfect example, combining a fireplace and cooktop to create a smart and stylish solution for fitting more into a smaller outdoor area.
Build your ideal outdoor kitchen including optional Pizza Oven Accessory with the EW5000 Outdoor Cooking Fireplace.
If you're ready to elevate your outdoor living, explore Escea's range of outdoor fireplaces to suit your space and lifestyle - whether for cooking, relaxing or both.
