The rise of the architectural outdoor fireplace

For years, outdoor living has been about creating a seamless connection between house and landscape. But outdoor fireplaces are no longer simply a way to warm an alfresco space on cool evenings. Increasingly, they are being specified as sculptural focal points that shape how outdoor areas are designed, used and experienced throughout the year.

According to Hayden Ryan from Heatrite, homeowners are investing more heavily in outdoor entertaining than ever before, looking for features that elevate the entire space while creating memorable experiences.

"People are spending more time entertaining outdoors," he says. "They're looking for something that's a bit different that really sets the area apart."

This shift reflects a broader movement in residential architecture. Rather than treating outdoor areas as secondary spaces, architects are designing them with the same level of attention as interiors, carefully balancing aesthetics with functionality.

A fireplace that becomes architecture

While traditional outdoor fireplaces remain popular, suspended designs are introducing a distinctly contemporary aesthetic.

Heatrite’s Aurora Aether is a great example of a contemporary design, its striking suspended form appearing to float effortlessly beneath a roof structure rather than sitting heavily on the ground. The result is a fireplace that feels as much like an architectural installation as it does a heating appliance.

"The fact that it's suspended from the ceiling gives it that incredible floating look," Hayden explains. "It's quite different from what's traditionally available."

Rather than competing with surrounding architecture, the suspended design enhances it, creating a dramatic visual centrepiece while maintaining openness throughout the outdoor room.

Heatrite's Aurora Aether can be installed indoors or out.

More than just warmth

As expectations around outdoor living continue to evolve, homeowners are increasingly looking for features that perform multiple roles. Beyond providing warmth, the Aurora Aether also functions as a wood-fired pizza cooking appliance. "It becomes another talking point," Hayden says. "Being able to cook pizzas over the fire always creates that wow factor when people are entertaining."

This combination of heating and cooking reflects a growing preference for products that maximise both function and enjoyment rather than serving a single purpose. It also brings an unexpected practical advantage. Because the Aurora Aether can be classified as a cooking appliance, it can simplify the consenting process in situations where traditional outdoor fireplaces may face additional restrictions. "A lot of architects don't realise it can be put through as a cooking appliance," Hayden explains. "That can make a real difference during the consent process."

Designing for success

Like many architectural features, successful installation begins well before construction reaches the finishing stages. Hayden says one of the most common mistakes is leaving fireplace decisions until too late in the build, particularly as each Aurora Aether is handmade to order in Australia before being shipped to New Zealand. "There's manufacturing time and shipping time involved, so it's never really too early to order," he says. Planning ahead is equally important from an installation perspective.

Because structural mounting components need to be installed before ceilings are lined and enclosed, waiting until the fireplace arrives can create unnecessary delays."It's something that catches people out," Hayden says. "The bracket comes with the fire, but by the time people order it they're often ready to close everything in." Early collaboration between architects, builders and suppliers ensures the necessary structural supports are incorporated from the outset, avoiding costly changes later in the project. Clearances also need to be carefully considered during the design phase. Homeowners often want to position fireplaces tightly into corners or enclosed spaces, but Hayden says maintaining the required clearances to combustible materials is essential. Designing around these requirements early makes installation considerably simpler.

Elevating the outdoor experience

One recent project in Palmerston North demonstrates how thoughtful integration can transform an outdoor entertaining area.

Working alongside Inhouse Construction, Heatrite developed a custom mounting bracket that attached directly to a louvre roof, allowing the Aurora Aether to appear as though it was floating within the space.

Surrounded by an open concrete entertaining area, the suspended fireplace became an instant focal point while preserving uninterrupted sightlines across the outdoor room.

Rather than feeling like an appliance added at the end of a project, it became an integral part of the architecture itself.

The future of outdoor fireplaces

While outdoor fireplaces continue to grow in popularity, Hayden believes the conversation is shifting.

Rather than simply wanting the largest fireplace available, homeowners are placing greater emphasis on thoughtful design and greater functionality.

Cooking capabilities remain one of the most requested features, reflecting the continued evolution of outdoor entertaining into an experience that combines food, fire and gathering in one space.

For architects, this presents an opportunity to think beyond heating alone.

Specified early and integrated thoughtfully, architectural fireplaces like the Aurora Aether can become defining features that extend the usability of outdoor spaces while adding sculptural interest and everyday functionality. As outdoor living continues to evolve, it is this combination of design, performance and experience that is making the architectural fireplace one of the most compelling additions to the contemporary home.

To discover more innovative heating solutions and connect with trusted suppliers and professionals for your next project, explore Heatrite’s fireplaces on ArchiPro.