Embracing the elements: Fire pit ideas that are redefining outdoor living in New Zealand

A fire pit is a great addition to any backyard, patio, deck or any outdoor living space for that matter with its spectacle of light, heat and sound. Delivering both style and functionality, they can be a tremendous asset and, as you'll soon see with these fantastic fire pit ideas, the possibilities are endless.

The placement of your fire pit is crucial to the atmosphere you'll create and its practical effectiveness. While placing seating all the way around your fire pit is understandable for getting the most out of it, another option to consider is to leave one side open for an unobstructed view of your surroundings. This is an excellent choice for beach homes with coastal views to enjoy but also works for homes with landscaped gardens too.

Modern life is hectic at the best of times with plans and priorities constantly in a state of change. As a result, products that can flex with your changing needs and desires are invaluable. Portable fire pits have quickly found their niche for their versatile traits. Not only can you change their position and configuration in your own home but you can take them with you to the bach or for day trips across the country.

A quick way to create a point of difference is to think about multiple fire pits for your outdoor area. This is a particularly good idea if you have a large outdoor space that you want to make use of in the evening hours. Of course, it will require a bigger investment but the payoff will be well worth it, especially for parties and intimate gatherings of friends and family.

The outdoor fire pit is traditionally square or circular but in recent years, modern alternatives have started to come to the fore. Linear fire pits with sleek lines have become increasingly popular for their elegant and sophisticated aesthetic and versatile uses. These uses include being used as a centrepiece in front of a large seating area or as garden edging, creating a picturesque border for your outdoor living space.

A wooden fire pit probably sounds like a slightly risky proposition but when used as the finish around a concrete fire pit, it's perfectly safe and equally stylish. The look gives a familiar warmth to the fire pit which can look great in a backyard space or on a deck. Many like to match the choice of wood to that of their outdoor furniture to create a cohesive look.

One of the more popular fire pit ideas in recent times is to find one that also becomes part of the furniture, literally. Fire pit tables are a great example of this as a piece of outdoor furniture that offers drama and warmth at the dining table. It's multi-functional, fun and adds a spectacular centrepiece to any occasion.

Multi-functional fire pits are a common theme in this article and it continues here with fire pits that also function as an outdoor kitchen. Again, it is increasingly common to find fire pits that also double up as a grill with a hotplate to cook your favourite foods. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, adding another sensory experience with the beautiful aromas of your best dishes in the air.

Related article: 11 types of BBQ grills to set you up for the Kiwi summer

One of the decisions you'll need to make is the material and finish of your fire pit and corten steel makes a compelling case for itself with its exquisite protective patina. The weathered, rust aesthetic is perfect for fans of industrial styling, adding a textural look that is strong and captivating. It adds a sense of permanence and timelessness to your fire pit area which, along with its roaring fire, makes a soothing sight indeed.

Nothing creates more drama than the clash of opposing elements, in this instance, fire and water. Combining your fire pit with a water feature is a great idea to consider for this very reason as it will instantly create a spectacular focal point for your backyard. This is a nice DIY fire pit idea, if you have the skillset, making it one you can tailor to your tastes.

One of the more decorative fire pit ideas is to select a sculptural piece to immerse in your garden or backyard. We take great pride in our gardens in New Zealand and this idea presents another way to think about a fire pit as something other than a heating apparatus. With some fantastic designer products available, you'll find no shortage of options to choose from.

You don't have to be outside to appreciate and admire a fine fire pit. For most, you'll be able to position your fire pit in a spot that can be seen from inside the home. The extent to which you can do this will differ from home to home and it may not be a priority for all, but don't discount the value and satisfaction it can bring, seeing a fire pit crackling away from the comfort of your sofa or bed.

The fire bowl is a trending fire pit design for those eager to make a contemporary style statement in their outdoor space. They are a high-impact choice by nature, often featuring strong materials like cast iron, which can be ornate and detailed or raw and powerful. They are great for gathering around, creating a real campfire-like feeling for those chilly nights.

If you're after an interesting and unique place to feature your fire pit you should seriously consider the garden gazebo. With shelter and seating, a fire pit within a gazebo can create a sanctuary within a sanctuary. It makes for a spectacular garden feature that will surprise and delight one and all.

As you can see, there are some exciting fire pit ideas to consider with many more to create and discover for yourself. Whether it's a specific way you position a fire pit or a multi-functional model that doubles up as a table or a grill, you'll find they immediately improve your outdoor living now, and for many years to come.

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