Fireplaces and Fire Pits

Since ancient times, fire has fascinated us like few other elements. It warms us, provides us with food, and its sight captivates us. In short, anyone who installs a fire pit or fireplace in their own garden can not only warm their body on a cool evening but also nourish their soul.

For around a beautiful fire pit, friends love to gather, listening to the crackling of the flames and grilling meat. Modern city dwellers also enjoy roasting marshmallows on a stick.

While it's a bit of a task, it's quite simple to create your own fire pit. If desired, you can dig a larger depression in your garden, pave the bottom and half-height walls, and place the actual fire pit in the center. This way, guests can sit on the half-height walls warmed by the fire and safely roast their sausages on long wooden skewers over the flames. For those who prefer to grill a bit more professionally, a tripod with a grill grate can be set up. The depression protects the fire from gusts of wind, making it easy to control the embers.

For a simpler and more mobile option, metal fire bowls and fire baskets are great. You can place them wherever they fit best, depending on the wind direction, and they look fantastic. The selection ranges from clear, minimalist, and modern shapes to intricate wrought-iron designs. Stone table creations, where the fire pit is embedded in the center, also look spectacular.

To safely operate a fire pit, it's recommended to use wood that contains few essential oils, allowing it to burn evenly and minimizing the risk of sparks.

The difference between a fire pit and a garden fireplace is that the fireplace is more enclosed and, therefore, safer, but also more complex. Generally, a fireplace has a fire chamber closed on three sides, which protects the fire from the wind and people from sparks. Above the fire pit, there is a chimney that directs the smoke upwards while allowing the fire to burn in a more controlled manner.

Traditionally, garden fireplaces are built from masonry, with the fire chamber constructed using fire-resistant stones. However, there are now also metal garden fireplaces and designs that effectively and decoratively combine glass, metal, and stone materials.