When we were envisioning our backyard design, we knew that we wanted to be sure to include a fire pit somewhere out in the yard. We wanted to create memories with our kids of summer nights spent out by the fire making s’mores under the stars. So we decided to put the firepit in front of the play area. We left most of the middle of our yard open space for now since we are planning for a swimming pool down the road once the kids are a little older. We didn’t want to put anything in the way of where that may go so that was why we chose the location that we did.
Kevin and I went back and forth between a gas fire pit versus one that would require firewood and decided we liked the idea of having one that required wood best. We love the smell and the effect you get from a campfire so it seemed like a better fit for us.
The process of building this was rather easy for Kevin and only took him a few hours to do. He first removed the dirt and made a solid level aggregate base. Once he finished this step he then set the insert and began installing the block course layers. He then finished off with a cap. We made the decision to place fireproof bricks inside the pit for easier clean up. This is an optional step, but one that we feel makes the space look neater.
The fire pit kit that we picked from EP Henry was one that included a grate for sparks and cooking. It was a beautiful addition and one that can be easily removed if needed. We cooked lots of corn on the cob on it last summer. There is nothing better than fire corn. The taste is hard to beat.
Once finished, we found some beautiful all weather composite adirondack chairs, mini chairs for the kids, glider and side table to make the area a cozy space to enjoy the fire at. The location was perfect because we could sit in this space and enjoy a fire all while watching the kids play nearby on the swingset.
The plan for this coming summer will be to add more pavers around the firepit area. We had not settled on the design plans for that space so we just left the grass area around it while we made up our mind over the winter. Having the pavers around the area is a good idea for safety in the event of any sparks flying. It will also make lawn maintenance a bit easier this summer since we won’t have to move all the furniture to cut the grass. If you are planning to have an area similar to this in your own yard, we would highly recommend having some sort of pavers surrounding the fire pit space. You will thank us when it’s a grass cutting day.
We are looking forward to sharing lots of sunsets, s’mores and memories out at this space with family and friends for years to come.
