To maximize your enjoyment of your outdoor space for as many months as possible on Long Island, NY, you may want to explore the addition of an outdoor fireplace. Here are eight tips to help you enjoy your fireplace after the sun goes down and across more than one or two seasons.
Related: CREATE LASTING MEMORIES AROUND AN OUTDOOR FIREPLACE IN THE DIX HILL, NY, AREA
Make the Fireplace a Focal Point
In addition to bringing visual interest to a landscape, an outdoor fireplace can serve as a focal point for entertaining, it makes it easy to gather around and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of the fire. This creates a sense of community and allows people to come together and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. It’s often a perfect feature as you host parties, by helping to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Think Carefully About Location
One of the first considerations is location. Where do you want to have your outdoor fireplace? If you’ve been thinking about adding a fireplace, chances are you already have an idea about placement. But there’s more that goes into placement than you might initially think. For example, if you’re set on an outdoor fireplace fueled by gas, you’ll have to consider access to a gas line. There may be locations on your property where gas line access is optimal and other spots where it’s not. Propane may be an option as well.
If you’re set on having a wood-burning fireplace, you’ll want to take into account things like wind. Having a fire screen certainly helps. There also may be rules or regulations regarding use of wood-burning fireplaces. A landscape contractor will help guide you through these kinds of considerations and more, so that you can optimize what’s on your wish list with what’s feasible on your property. But as you can see, location is a key first item to think about.
Consider Aesthetic Alignment
When designing your outdoor fireplace, it is important to consider the overall style and aesthetic of your outdoor space. A fireplace should complement and enhance the existing design, rather than detract from it. It’s also important to consider the size and location of the fireplace in relation to the overall outdoor space. A fireplace that is too small or placed in an awkward location can detract from the overall design rather than enhance it.
Choose Fireplace Materials
When it comes to the actual building of your outdoor fireplace, your landscape contractor will likely factor in both form and function. If you’re going for a more rustic look, the look of stone is probably preferred. If you’re leaning toward something more modern and sleek, then a smoother concrete surface may work well. Of course, nothing is done in isolation—it’s all part of a cohesive whole.
Consider the Patio at the Same Time
One of the best ways to complete the look of a gathering area around your outdoor fireplace is by having a paver patio custom-built for you. Your choice of pavers may depend in part on what style of materials you’ve chosen for your fireplace.
Don’t Forget Seating Options
Having comfortable seating when it comes to space and furniture is a crucial element for a successful addition of a fireplace. A seating wall could finish off the inviting look of an outdoor fireplace area.
Create a Sense of Privacy
A sense of privacy in this area could be achieved by using plants to create a natural barrier around your outdoor living space.
Account for Safety
Safety is always paramount when thinking about a fire feature. Your landscape contractor will make sure that whatever work is being done is up to code and built with safety in mind.
