Outdoor Fireplaces: The Key to Cozy Outdoor Living
In recent years, indoor-outdoor living has been a must-have for homeowners building or renovating their dream homes. Trends in residential architecture designs have seen the implementation of screened porches, panoramic sliding glass doors, expansive patios, and outdoor kitchens. These spaces are idyllic for summer entertaining but often are left underutilized during cold winter months. The architects at our Austin, Texas design firm believe the key to creating a cozy outdoor space that you can use year-round is an outdoor fireplace. This article will discuss the differences between indoor and outdoor fireplaces, the types of outdoor fireplaces to choose from, and why installing an outdoor fireplace will make for a cozy patio.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Fireplaces: Which is Better for Your Home?
While you certainly can have both an indoor and outdoor fireplace in your home, we think an essential part of the design process is assessing your needs. Determine which fireplace better fits your lifestyle and where you should invest your efforts and budget. Here are some of the differences and factors to consider when comparing indoor and outdoor fireplaces.
Choosing Gas or Wood-Burning
Typically, gas fireplaces are better served for indoor use, while wood-burning fireplaces are perfect for outdoor spaces. Gas fireplaces burn cleaner, making them a better interior selection. They don’t emit soot or smoke, keeping the home air quality clean. Wood-burning fireplaces do emit smoke, which is less of a concern outdoors and can even be a benefit when it comes to repelling pesky bugs.
Creating Ambiance or an Event
When it comes to your fireplace, determine if you are looking to achieve ambiance or create an event. Gas fireplaces conveniently turn on at the flip of a switch and have the peaceful glow of an open flame without any hassle. Wood-burning fireplaces, however, involve a process of collecting firewood, kindling a flame, and watching the embers glow and crackle. You can even roast marshmallows over a wood fire! Decide which lifestyle works for you and your family.
Utilizing Indoor or Outdoor Living
Examine your daily routine and entertaining style. Do you see yourself spending more time indoors or gathering with friends and family for outdoor events? If you spend more time outdoors, an outdoor fireplace will be a must-have for warming your patio for year-round use.
Types of Outdoor Fireplaces to Choose From
When designing an outdoor fireplace, we recommend going with a wood-burning option. The backyard is a perfect place for building a fire, watching it crackle, and gathering around the flames. Here are three popular types of fireplaces that can be incorporated into any style of home.
Built-in Fireplace
A built-in fireplace is perfect for creating an outdoor focal point and anchoring your outdoor entertaining space. When it comes to placement, a built-in fireplace can be attached to the home or stand independently in the backyard. Make sure to select non-combustible materials like brick or stone, and create proper ventilation using a chimney stack.
Double-Sided Indoor-Outdoor Fireplace
A double-sided indoor-outdoor fireplace creates visual interest and can be included in both traditional and contemporary designs. This style fireplace will be attached to the home and feature dual openings on both the interior and exterior, providing one fire that can be enjoyed from two spaces. A dual-sided fireplace is a perfect option for homeowners who truly want to create an indoor-outdoor living experience.
Firepit
Firepits are another popular option. When designing a firepit, it is important to place it further from the house in an area that has open ventilation. Consider creating a distinct seating area with built-in benches to take in the view and cozy vibes.
Reasons to Install an Outdoor Fireplace for Cozy Outdoor Living
Outdoor fireplaces add charm and create a cozy atmosphere for outdoor living. While they are perfect for winter months, their beauty can be enjoyed year-round. Here are our top five reasons to install an outdoor fireplace.
Extend the Outdoor Season
Outdoor fireplaces allow you to get more use out of your outdoor space. Extend the outdoor entertaining season with not only a warm patio but charming character that entices guests to congregate outside around the fire. Maximize your outdoor space by adding this element to promote year-round use.
Increase Entertainment Space
Adding a fireplace or firepit outside gives you another space to entertain. Define the patio with a focal point that promotes a sense of gathering. You could also add built-in seating, expand the patio with an outdoor kitchen, or screen in the space for added enjoyment.
Add Home Value
Outdoor fireplaces add value to your home. In fact, the addition of a fireplace or firepit along with a beautiful outdoor space can increase value up to 20%, making the investment well worth it for resale. You will also be able to enjoy this timeless addition year after year!
Define the Outdoor Living Area
Similar to how indoor fireplaces provide a living room focal point, outdoor fireplaces can help define the outdoor living area. This feature will signal to guests where to gather outside the home and provide a beautiful backdrop to evening dinners outside.
Create Memories Around the Fire
Our favorite reason for adding an outdoor fireplace is for the memories you and your family can create around it. Imagine roasting marshmallows and making s’mores on winter nights or keeping the summer pool party going all night with a warm fire to relax by. When designing your home, it is important to place cozy and memorable spaces at the forefront of the plans.
White Bluff Trail, wood-burning fireplace
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