Build Your Own Outdoor Fireplace and Create Cozy Seating in Your Backyard

How much do you want to spend on your new fireplace? How big do you want it to be? Do you want built in seating? Do you like the squared or arched firebox opening? It seems there are dozens of questions that go into building your own outdoor fireplace, and they don’t stop there. Even after purchasing all the necessary parts, what happens if they don’t fit together correctly? Or if the mantel doesn’t look right against the design of your backyard? Will that make you want to rip everything out and start over again?

Want Built In Seating?
Before you even start building your firebox, think about what you plan to do with it. If you’re planning on using it as a permanent outdoor fireplace then built-in seating would be a fantastic way to include comfy chairs that double as a way to surround your fireplace. If, however, your fireplace is for outdoor parties or other special occasions only then built-in seating may not be a good idea. That said, if you are planning on using it year round as an outdoor fireplace built-in seating is something worth considering. Another added benefit of built in seating is that you won’t have to worry about trying to find somewhere else to place all those lawn chairs when they aren’t being used with your fire pit. Simply put them right up against your new creation! The one downside to built in seating is that you will need some kind of side tables (perhaps another project) so guests can set drinks down and not worry about accidentally knocking them over into your new creation. You’ll also want to make sure there’s plenty of room between each chair for everyone who plans on sitting down, so don’t go too crazy with trying to squeeze as many chairs into one space as possible. Just remember: No matter how big or small your design turns out – once it’s done, you’ll never want to spend another night outside without having a fire going inside!

Arched or Squared Firebox Opening
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, think about how many people will be using your outdoor fireplace. (If it’s for family get-togethers, most likely you’ll need seating for a few people.) Also consider where you’ll be placing your outdoor fireplace. If you have a small backyard, placing it close to an outer wall of your house makes sense; if your backyard is big enough for entertaining groups of friends, find a space near that so everyone can enjoy themselves together. Measure out enough space for several chairs or benches.

Choose Where You Will Sit
An outdoor fireplace can bring so much charm to your backyard, but it’s important to remember that you’ll need to choose where you will sit before you begin building. Depending on how many people you want to be able to fit, there are a few different types of seating options that might work for your outdoor fireplace area. One common way is with benches; these are simple and easy ways for multiple people to sit near a fire without having to squeeze onto an overstuffed couch. A bench with armrests is also a nice touch if you expect it will get chilly at night or if there is a slight breeze while sitting outside by your fire pit.

Use Cement, Stone, or Tile Around The Fire Box
Surrounding your fireplace with stone, cement, or tile can be a good way to enhance its visual appeal. However, if you choose to do so, make sure that you’re using material that is suited for fireplaces. Using incorrect materials could result in cracking or flaking paint after it’s subjected to prolonged high temperatures. After all, decorative items are only meant to make your fireplace more visually appealing; they shouldn’t take away from its functionality!

Install Railings or Posts For Extra Safety
Whenever you have an outdoor fireplace, you must take steps to ensure that it is safe for your family. That’s why so many fire pits include railings or fences around them. These barriers create a barrier to make sure that no one can come into contact with any of its elements without warning. The same goes for when you install your own brick fire pit—don’t forget to add safety features like railings or posts around your built-in seating areas, as well.