Outdoor Rooms

Lean and Clean

While enormous hearths have their charm, not everyone has the room to accommodate those structures. A contemporary, gas-fired alternative like this module unit from Spark Modern Fires is more environmentally friendly than wood burners and can be modified for custom designs. What's more, it turns on with the flick of a remote. Photo by Spark Modern Fires.

An Intimate Firebowl

A beautifully-shaped firebowl, such as a Greek urn, is an attractive and portable alternative to traditional outdoor hearths. This bowl, designed by Ian Knepper, is a sculptural work of art that provides a safe and clean flame and is small enough to be positioned anywhere. It offers a wonderful opportunity to nestle chairs around for an intimate gathering. Photo by Ian Knepper.

Warmth Under a Pergola

It's nice to have a backyard entertainment space set apart from the main living area. You can gather around the blazing fire, look up at the stars and pretend you are far away from civilization.
This standalone fireplace from Stirling StoneWorks sits under a garden pergola on a stone patio. A raised hearth adds seating for outdoor entertaining. Photo by Melody Saunders Brenna; Stirling StoneWorks.

A Wall of Fire

Modern, modular gas-fueled fire ribbons offer enormous design versatility. A fire wall is used as a dramatic enhancement to the outdoor architecture. This unit is constructed from stainless steel with waterproof internal components, a remote control and an electronic ignition. Photo by Spark Modern Fires.

The Circle of Flames

Whether you live in the frigid North or are more accustomed to warm breezes and rustling palms, there's no better way to enjoy the company of friends than around a blazing fire as the night descends. Today's fire pits come with all the conveniences of modern life. Photo by Snassek.

Bringing the Indoors Out

A classically-styled stone mantelpiece will be the center of attention, whether it is in your living room or on the patio. With the right seating arrangement, your backyard becomes a natural extension of your home. Choosing materials that complement each other and considering lighting options, materials and furniture are key components in creating a comfortable outdoor entertainment hub. Photo by Winston Furniture.

Entertaining Outdoors

Now that fall is upon us, you may want to think about entertaining on your patio to take advantage of the fall temperatures.

Furnish the space with stylish, weather-resistant pieces. This long trestle table’s crisscross base mimics the diamond floor pattern, and the white finish maintains a minimal look. The chairs, made of clear-sealed metal, add a touch of industrial chic, and they stack for easy storage. Add a hanging lantern for a touch of elegance.

Simple curtain panels made of durable, weatherproof outdoor fabric soften the space. In this picture their are sheer panels with large grommets by Jaqlene, a South Carolina textile company, on re purposed plumbing pipes.

Rope place mats layered with textured porcelain dinnerware and twine-tied utensils create a laid-back mood. Keep it casual with stemware or color coordinated plastic. Take advantage of fall by placing flowers from your garden along with the lovely colors of the falling leaves, in your napkins and other stemware.

 


Fragrant lilac bouquets is another alternative in galvanized-metal cups along with simple candlelit hurricanes make a relaxed alternative to a fussy centerpiece.
 
Whatever you plan for an outdoor dinner party, remember the background music to help break the ice and provide a calming experience. Remember you want to hear what your guests are saying, so keep the volume low.

Take a look at my store for cookware and more home decor.