21 Dec 2012 Fireplaces and fire pits – practical and functional
by RaeLynn Callaway
The outdoor living lifestyle in the South has become highly valued and certainly something that should be taken advantage of.
In new construction, fireplaces and fire pits have become centerpieces, adding beauty, style and warmth to outdoor living. Whether warm or cold, a fireplace or fire pit provides a wonderful ambiance to any home. Besides the exciting mood created by a crackling fire, you also create a calming gathering place for friends and family with an efficient heat source.
Portable and custom fireplaces are constructed to conserve and maintain heat and warmth around a perimeter. Walls and masonry are used to absorb heat and radiate it back onto the people enjoying it.
Fire pits add the aura of an open fire right in your own back yard. They can be designed in-ground or on-ground. These pits usually provide a more even, less intense heat.
Fireplaces and fire pits can have endless design possibilities. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes. They can range from $100 for a portable metal unit to thousands of dollars for a custom design. Material selection is an important decision. A more traditional look is accomplished by using brick and stone, and for a more contemporary look, one might use different metals or smooth paving stones.
A few things to consider before starting your project:
Personal taste and style
Existing features of your home
Lifestyle
Budget
Indoors or out, gathering around a fire is a classic way to spend an evening. A custom fireplace or fire pit can be the perfect finishing touch to your outdoor space. By combining architectural style with a comfortable arrangement, you can create a flawless design for your living area that is functional and spectacular.
