Luxurious Outdoor Fireplaces and Simplified DIY Fire Pit Projects, How to Choose

It is not easy to compare a built-in stone or brick outdoor fireplace with a mangal or a DIY fire pit. These are two distinct ideas that both bring fun to outdoor home spaces and serve a functional purpose. However, outdoor fireplaces win when you want coziness and elegance, and DIY fire pit projects can be favorites for those who appreciate a nomadic lifestyle, simplicity, and a sense of adventure.

Lushome team shares a few ideas for adding warmth to backyard designs and creating a small spot for quick cooking. Which one you like the best depends on your lifestyle, budget, and backyard activities. The size of your backyard, landscaping, fire safety, and your mood are also important factors. However, there is something to think about.

Modern outdoor fireplace designs

Beautiful and unique outdoor fireplaces

Outdoor fireplaces add life to home spaces

Outdoor fireplaces

contemporary hanging fireplace design — Contemporary hanging fireplace in a seating area

Outdoor seating areas with a fireplace create a comfortable, inviting, and stylish ambiance. Hearts are protected from the wind, and chimneys direct smoke upward, keeping everyone happy. Although enclosed fireplaces radiate warmth more effectively, both open and enclosed fireplace designs provide a soft and pleasant warmth.

small contemporary fireplaces — Small fireplace, contemporary design

Modern outdoor fireplaces create spectacular centerpieces, often featuring impressive architectural designs that enhance backyards and increase home values. Generally, modern fireplaces are a safe and perfect option for all yards. They contain flames, reducing the risk of sparks. Building a fireplace is an expensive endeavor that requires professional installation.

stone fireplace design — Outdoor seating area with a stone fireplace

modern fireplaces backyard ideas

Fire pits

Seating in front of a stone fireplace is ideal for people who prefer to relax. DIY fire pits and smaller gas fireplaces are more interactive when everyone sits around them, having a conversation or sharing jokes.

Fabulous fire pit globes

DIY fire pit design ideas

Stone fire pit designs and patio ideas

Fire pits, especially DIY designs, and small gas fireplaces are budget-friendly solutions. DIy fire pits are casual, quick to make, and communal. These fire features delight with their practicality and flexibility. You can place them anywhere you want, even if you have mature trees nearby. Fire pits are portable and highly customizable, making them perfect for creating unique backyard designs and enhancing the ambiance of countryside properties.

modern fire pit seating area — Elegant fire pit and outdoor seating area

Fire pits are less safe around plants, wooden decks, and garden structures, and can pose a danger to kids and pets. However, the biggest concern is exposure to smoke and open flames. The smoke can drift unpredictably, and heat can be too extensive or escape with the wind.

creative fire pit seating area — Unique and creative outdoor seating area with a fire pit and a tub

fire pit designs outdoor seating areas

How to choose

Consider your preferences, lifestyle, budget, and daily activities to determine the best option for you. Decide how often you will use the design and how long it takes to build one. Weigh elegant ambiance and a quiet time against large group gatherings with your big family and friends. If you are dreaming of cozy nights, an outdoor fireplace is the perfect choice. If you are a DIY enthusiast and an adventurous person, a simple fire pit design is ideal for laughing and storytelling under the stars.