Notes from the Field: Backyard Fire Pits

By Karin Lidbeck Brent

Like a moth drawn to candlelight, I can lounge around an evening campfire for hours during the summer months. I love listening to the sound of chirping tree frogs while embraced by the glow of the fire under a starry sky.

Backyard fire pits have become a must-have for summer enjoyment. I have seen some inspiring interpretations of the classic campfire while scouting homes and gardens around New England.

Here, a simple design of field stone and variegated blue slate cap was designed by David Hawk Landscape Design in conjunction with architects Polhemus DaSavery and DaSilva for a Cape Cod home. What better way to relax and enjoy the spectacular view?

 Photo by Brain Van De Brink, from hawkdesigninc.com

Gregory Lombardi designed this outdoor fire pit using Connecticut Goshen stone. The design retains a modern yet natural and earthy feeling. The stone was cut in semi-circles and laid upright, side-by-side.   

Photo courtesy of Gregory Lombardi Design

The traditional idea of a round campfire can take on a variety of shapes like this square fire feature designed and built by Keith Wagner and Blazing Design.

Photo by Susan Teare

A Connecticut family that loves to entertain designed this knee high fire pit as a central design and to accommodate a large crowd on their patio. A simple flick of a switch ignites propane to provide flames through the lava rock.

Adding a fireplace to a protected area like this screened porch is the way to go.  It’s a great way to add a focal point to an outdoor room and provide year round pleasure.

Designed by LDa Architects; Interiors by Kristi Rivoli; Photo by Greg Premru