Michiganders know a thing or 2 about the importance of fireside living. Evenings spent lingering by a warm hearth or gathered around a friendly fire pit are part of our Mitten State identity. And the chillier the day (we’re talking to you, February), the more these memories warm our hearts.
The joy of a backyard fire feature is that it’s just as delightful on a snowy winter afternoon as it will be during a height-of-summer night. So now’s the time to gather glowing inspiration—and get planning.
Here, we’re sharing beautiful concepts as well as tips and insights on what materials to choose for your fire pit or outdoor fireplace, so you can make smart and stylish choices. Because whatever the weather, fire features are both an aesthetic focal point and a functional gathering place, bringing warmth and light to your outdoor space all year round.
Stone fire pit in Detroit suburbs next to a pool and Michigan lake
On top of form and function, fire pits and outdoor fireplaces deliver the gift of expanded time outside. One fire element can transform your entire fresh-air living area into a space that can call to you in any season.
What’s the key to choosing the right look? Partner with a hardscaping company that blends meticulous craftsmanship with an unwavering commitment to bringing your vision to life, tailoring every detail to your tastes, needs, and the style of your home.
Important factors to consider include:
The distinctive shape of your structure
The unique colors and textures of your materials
How the stone you choose will weather our freeze-and-thaw climate
How the selected materials will conduct and retain radiant heat
How your fire feature will blend in or stand out with surroundings—including landscaping, other hardscape elements, or your home
Fire pits And Fireplaces: What’s The Difference?
Either a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace will elevate your outdoor space, but each offers a distinct vibe.
A fire pit usually sits in an open space, centrally located in the backyard. It is designed for gathering, roasting frankfurters and marshmallows, and even breaking out the guitar and sharing a few fireside songs. Fire pits are interactive features that deliver casual, communal charm.
An outdoor fireplace, meanwhile, typically has a more enclosed design. It’s often built into a wall, creating a focal point for relaxation. And it brings your outdoor space a touch of sophistication—an elegant yet welcoming gathering place.
Outdoor fireplace in Birmingham Michigan
Best Outdoor Fireplace & Fire Pit Materials
You can design your fire pit or outdoor fireplace to seamlessly integrate with your existing space—or to stand out in contrast, making a bold statement.
The materials you use for your fire pit or outdoor fireplace will play a pivotal role in defining its character and how it blends in with or stands out from your overall outdoor aesthetic.
At Decra-Scape, we pride ourselves on fine craftsmanship and excellent quality, so we typically recommend either natural stone or brick for outdoor fire features. Let’s look at each option in a bit more detail:
Natural Stone
Natural stone stands out as the predominant choice for outdoor fireplaces, offering versatility in
Color
Size
Style
Shape
Whether you're aiming for a rustic, contemporary, or traditional look, natural stone can be the answer, providing a timeless and elegant option.
Brick
Opt for brick to evoke a traditional or historic ambiance, particularly if your home also has a brick exterior—or if you would like your fire feature to standout by using contrasting materials. In either case, incorporating brick into your overall aesthetic is a classic and strong choice.
Whether it’s a cold winter or a warm summer, outdoor fire features can extend enjoyment of your outdoor space—and deliver striking year-round beauty.
Get in touch with a design consultant today to begin exploring how you can give your backyard the gift of warmth and light.
