Fire pits maximize the amount of time people spend outdoors in Lancaster, PA, by offering an enticing ensemble of warmth and light. They can also enhance the high-end look of a hardscape when boasting clean-cut contemporary design elements.

Fire pits offer near-endless potential for customization; however, safety should always be ensured above all else. The materials selected for the construction of a fire pit should be fireproof and durable, while the immediate surroundings should be kept clear of flammable materials. Here are a few tips for creating stunning fire pits that your clients will return to, night after night.

Modern Metal

A fire pit containing steel elements will not only be durable, but will also serve as the perfect complement to a modern hardscape aesthetic. Installing gray stone slabs or large-format concrete pavers underfoot will create a pleasant combination of textures. Your client will then have the opportunity to deepen the material selection by incorporating refined wood and upholstered cushions into the surrounding outdoor furniture. Alternatively, they may choose to aim for cohesiveness by sourcing outdoor furniture with wrought-iron frames.

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Add Ice

Shattered glass can be used to replace the gravel in a propane fire pit and never fails to add an unexpected twist to the design. The crystal-like shards resemble crushed ice, creating a powerful juxtaposition in close proximity to flames. To the casual onlooker, the fire appears to be anchored by ice that refuses to melt. Glass is heat resistant and is, therefore, a safe and long-wearing candidate for fire pits. Pieces in different colors can be obtained and used to create interesting patterns on the surface of a square, round, or rectangular fire pit.

Use Stones

Imbue a propane fire pit with earthy zen elements by filling it with large, smooth white stones. Fire and stone pair exceptionally well to produce a tranquil aesthetic theme. The stones will absorb the heat from the fire over time and will continue to emit warmth after the fire has been extinguished.

Make It Multi-Purpose

One predominant feature of modern design is minimalism and the use of fewer pieces that serve multiple purposes and avoid clutter. Boost the modernity of an outdoor living space by enabling the fire pit to accomplish more than keeping homeowners warm after dark. A fire pit with a wide edge can double as a coffee table or foot rest. It can even be nestled into the center of a dining table, to envelope the entire al fresco experience in an intimate ambience. By incorporating glass or decorative stones into the pit, you allow it to serve as an aesthetic focal point during the day when it isn’t lit. Lighting can also be built into a fire pit to illuminate its surroundings even further and enhance outdoor safety when the sun disappears.

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Incorporate Water

No two elements are as contradictory as fire and water. Therefore, pairing them can produce captivating results. Consider centering a fire pit in a pool of water, forming a barrier similar to a moat around a castle. The flames will reflect off the still water to produce magical effects. Onlookers will not be able to get as close to the fire pit with water in the way, but this is a small compromise to make for such a powerful contrast.