There’s something about the first crisp evening of fall that naturally pulls us fireside. An outdoor fireplace has a way of transforming a garden into a destination where conversations linger and evenings stretch a little longer under the stars in good company. Over the years, it’s also become one of our most requested features, and there’s no question why. Adding an outdoor fireplace to your yard effortlessly beckons us to continue enjoying the beauty of the outdoors, even when the bite of the crisp, cool air returns.
We dug through the Garden Studio archives to gather some of our favorite fireplaces we’ve designed over the years, each one unique to the home it belongs to, yet all rooted in the same intention — to create a gathering destination that feels both inviting and enduring through every season.
If you’re dreaming of creating a cozy corner of your own in your backyard, you’re going to love today’s journal topic! Keep reading as we walk you through the process and key elements we present to our very own clients in bringing their dream outdoor fireplace to life.
Step 1: Navigating HOA and City Regulations
Before diving into materials, profiles, or finishes, the very first step in any outdoor fireplace design is understanding your HOA and city regulations. These rules often determine what’s possible in terms of height, placement, setbacks, and even the type of fuel allowed.
For example, a low-profile fireplace or fire pit may be a great fit if your property has sweeping views you don’t want to obstruct, while a high-profile design might serve as a privacy screen, accent wall within a pavilion, or a way to block unsightly views. But regardless of style, the final decision must align with local guidelines.
At Garden Studio, we always begin by reviewing HOA and municipal codes before presenting design concepts. This ensures your new fireplace is not only beautiful but also compliant from day one. Taking the time to address these requirements up front saves stress later and helps you move confidently into the more creative parts of the process!
Step 2: Selecting The Profile
The profile of an outdoor fireplace is defined as the height, width, and length of the structure, and is ultimately what sets the tone for the overall space. A low-profile fireplace or fire pit blends seamlessly into modern gardens, encouraging relaxed, casual gatherings. They’re often placed within the garden itself to keep views open and unobstructed, making them a natural fit for properties with scenic backdrops. On the other hand, a high-profile fireplace becomes an architectural anchor and/or a dramatic backdrop that frames the outdoor room. These taller designs are often dual-purpose, offering privacy, serving as an accent wall when incorporated into a pavilion, or even concealing unsightly scenes beyond the property.
When deciding on a profile, it’s not only important to consider the fireplace’s placement, but also to factor in practical requirements. HOA guidelines and city regulations play a large role in what’s possible, so this is why we always review setbacks and specifications first in our design process to ensure the options we present are aligned with both rules and aesthetics!
Pictured above: Low profile fireplace, designed at our Key View project. We placed a privacy hedge behind to create a visual boundary between the space and the neighboring property
From our Cabin On The Coast project, this statement fireplace anchors the outdoor lounge as its central gathering point. Designing structures like this are especially versatile as they not only create a natural focal moment, but also allow for thoughtful integrations like an outdoor media center or accent lighting above.
Step 3: Cladding (Stone, Brick, Stucco, or Tile?)
The cladding material shapes the personality of the fireplace. Stone feels timeless and natural, brick adds warmth and tradition, stucco ties seamlessly into California’s architectural vernacular, and tile offers a chance for something playful or patterned. Each choice connects the fireplace back to the home’s overall aesthetic.
Pictured above: Stone cladding as seen on the outdoor fireplace at our Key View Project
Pictured above: Brick cladding as seen on the outdoor fireplace at the Sycamore Estate Project
Pictured above: Limestone Tile cladding as seen on the outdoor fireplace at our Moody & Modern Project
Step 4: Fire Media Procurement
Fire media refers to the decorative, heat-resistant materials used in gas-fueled fire pits, fireplaces, and fire tables. The media serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose by concealing the burner, evenly distributing gas for a natural-looking flame, radiating heat, and defining the style of the fire feature.
When designing an outdoor fireplace for our clients, we present them with three options; Lava rock, Fireballs, and Logs. Each of these options are a stylistic choice that can facilitate with enhancing the overall space’s look and feel. Logs remain a classic choice for more rustic retreats, creating a nostalgic sense of coziness and a natural look. For a modern twist, we often use spherical fire balls that add sculptural interest. Lastly, lava rock is another great option if you’re looking for a raw, natural texture that feels organic against the flame.
Here’s what they look like:
Step 5: Fire Brick Color Selection
Behind the flame itself is a detail that makes all the difference: the fire brick color. We share a curated “tear sheet” with our clients (pictured below) that shows a few of our favorite tried and true options. From soft whites and sandy tones to smoky charcoals and deep blacks, choosing this color is one of those small details that has a big impact on the overall look and feel within your fireplace’s design.
More Inspiration this way:
Pictured above: Stone Slurried Fireplace at our Tropic House Project
Pictured above: Stone Fireplace at our San Clemente Project
Pictured above: Stone Fireplace at our Bayshores Tavern Project
Pictured above: Brick Fireplace within the outdoor dining pavilion at our Quite Cove Project
In Conclusion…
Whether you picture a low-profile fire pit tucked into the garden or a statement fireplace that doubles as a focal wall, the possibilities are endless.
Now it’s your turn: which combination of profile, cladding, fire media, and brick color would make up your dream outdoor fireplace? Share your vision with us in the comments below! We’d love to hear what cozy fireside moment you’re imagining.
