Ahhh, summer in Minnesota. Lemonade, lake days, and late nights spent outside with friends and family. It’s no wonder fire pits are one of the most-requested patio features in the landscape design business. A fire pit provides the perfect place to gather together, toast marshmallows, trade stories, and make memories. Even the Minnesota Twins’ stadium boasts a rooftop fire pit!

Here are some design ideas to consider if you’re thinking about adding one of these popular features to your outdoor space:

Location, Location, Location

Whatever size space you’re working with, a fire pit can provide a great focal point for entertaining. It’s important to consider how you want a fire pit to work into the flow of your patio. Will this be the primary gathering place for guests? Are you looking for quick access to the kitchen, or do you want the fire pit to be a “destination point” farther away on the property?

At Great Goats, we work with you to assess your outdoor space, and we take into consideration how you entertain.

Adding Fuel to the Fire

One of the biggest questions we get is gas vs. wood-burning. There are pros and cons to both. Wood gives you that woodsy ambiance and allows for bigger fires (just add another log!). There are no hook-ups to worry about, often making installation less expensive. Gas, on the other hand, offers quicker start-up and clean-up; it’s literally as simple as flipping a switch. And in some areas, local laws restrict outdoor wood smoke. We have expertise in both types of installation and can advise you on the best option for your home.

What’s Your Style?

Are you going for modern minimalist? Ornate Tuscan? These days, fire pits go well beyond the simple circle. Most of our clients opt for the classic beauty of traditional stone, but fire pits can be built from a variety of materials, all with different pros and cons: for instance, concrete can be molded into intricate shapes but is very heavy; granite is expensive but long-lasting. With our expertise in patio design, we can steer you to a durable option that matches the style you’re envisioning.

Call us today to set up a consultation, and make this summer extra memorable!