Recommendations from a Landscaper’s 30 Years of Experience
Let's get real about outdoor fireplaces. After three decades of designing landscapes across Arizona, I've seen trends come and go, but a truly perfect outdoor fireplace? That's something that transcends time and design fads. And trust me, I've learned more about these magnificent outdoor features in my 30+ years of hands-on experience than any textbook or classroom could have ever taught me. Â

I remember one of my first major outdoor fireplace projects like it was yesterday. The homeowners wanted something grand- something that would make their backyard look like it jumped straight out of an architectural digest. In my efforts to meet their specific measurement requests, the overall fireplace unit ended up being way too disproportionate with an opening that was too small to be used effectively. I then had to convince the owners to let me open up the structure and rework the whole front to correct the proportions. Boy was I glad when we finally got the fireplace looking like they were hoping for in the very beginning.Â
That project taught me my first and most important lesson: design is about more than just looking good on paper. It's about creating a space that function well, feels right, that invites people to gather, to relax, to make memories.
Understanding Your Space: The Art and Science of Placement
Choosing an outdoor fireplace isn't like picking out a throw pillow or a piece of wall art. It's about creating a focal point, an experience, a gathering space that'll become the heart of your outdoor living area. And let me tell you, size and placement are everything - and I mean everything.
First things first - measure your space with the precision of a surgeon. I can't tell you how many times I've seen homeowners fall head over heels in love with a fireplace design that's totally wrong for their yard. It's like trying to fit a king-size bed in a studio apartment - it just doesn't work.
Pro tip that I've learned through countless design projects: you want to be intentional about the location and spacing around your fireplace. This isn't just about aesthetics - it's about safety, functionality, and creating a natural flow in your outdoor space. Think of it like choreographing a dance. Every element needs room to move, to breathe.
Material Matters: The Hidden Complexity of Choosing the Right Substrate
Here's where my years of experience really come into play. Not all materials are created equal, especially when you're dealing with extreme temperatures, whether that's Arizona's scorching heat or the freezing winters of other regions.
Let me break down the materials in a way that goes beyond typical design advice:
Block and Brick Fireplaces:Â
Pros: Classic. Durable. Timeless aesthetic that never goes out of style.
Cons: Heavy. Requires serious foundational support.
Cost Range: $5,000 to $10,000 for a custom block or brick fireplace
Best For: Traditional homes, lovers of classic design, spaces with strong structural support
Stone Fireplaces:Â
Pros: Natural look. Incredibly durable. Handles temperature changes like a champ.
Cons: Can be prohibitively expensive. Requires skilled masonry work.
Cost Range: $8,000 to $15,000 for a high-end custom design
Best For: Homeowners wanting a natural, organic look. Those with larger budgets.
Concrete Fireplaces:Â
Pros: Modern. Sleek. Incredibly versatile. Can be stamped, stained, textured.
Cons: Can crack especially with extreme temperature changes. Limited insulation properties.
Cost Range: $4,000 to $8,000
Best For: Contemporary homes. Those wanting a clean, minimalist design.
Prefabricated Metal Fireplaces:Â
Pros: Quick installation. Lower cost. Multiple design options.
Cons: Less durability. Can look "manufactured" if not carefully selected.
Cost Range: $2,000 to $5,000
Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners. Renters with landlord permission.

Fuel Types: Navigating the Flame Landscape
Wood, gas, propane - each fuel type has its own personality, its own set of pros and cons. And trust me, after designing hundreds of outdoor spaces, I've got more than just a few opinions.
Wood-burning fireplaces? They're the romantics of the outdoor heating world. Authentic. Crackling sounds. That smoky aroma that takes you back to childhood camping trips. But maintenance is no joke. We're talking about regular ash cleaning, managing wood storage, dealing with smoke patterns, and potential sparking issues.
Gas and propane options? They're the pragmatists. Clean. Convenient. Controllable. Easy ignition and there you have it - instant ambiance. No wood chopping. No ash cleanup. No smoke in your eyes.
My recommendation after years of professional experience? For most homeowners, a gas fireplace with a wood-like aesthetic gives you the best of both worlds. Clean burning, easy maintenance, and you still get that cozy, nostalgic vibe.
Installation Considerations: The Unsexy but Critical Details
Permits. Foundations. Local building codes. I know - boring stuff that makes most homeowners' eyes glaze over. But critical? 100% absolutely essential that you pay attention to the requirements in your community or neighborhood.
Depending on where you live, in many municipalities, you'll need:
Detailed building permits
Professional inspection for gas lines
Compliance with local fire safety regulations
Potential Homeowners Association (HOA) approvals
Proof of proper setback distances from structures
Pro tip: Always, ALWAYS work with licensed professionals. I've seen too many DIY fireplace projects turn into expensive, potentially dangerous nightmares.
The Hidden Costs: Beyond the Sticker Price
Budget isn't just about the initial installation. Consider:
Annual maintenance costs
Potential repair expenses
Fuel costs
Potential efficiency improvements
A $5,000 fireplace might actually cost you several hundred dollars annually when you factor in everything.
Personal Fireplace Philosophy: More Than Just Design
After 30 years in this business, here's my unvarnished truth: A perfect outdoor fireplace isn't about being the most expensive or the most elaborate. It's about creating a space where stories unfold and friends and families gather. A space where memories are etched into the very stones and bricks.

I've designed fireplaces for million-dollar+ homes in Scottsdale and modest backyard spaces in retirement communities. And you know what? The magic isn't in the price tag or the grandness of the size but in how the space makes you feel. That indefinable warmth that goes beyond physical heat.
So take your time. Research. Ask questions. Visit showrooms. Feel the materials. Don’t be afraid to meet with a few different qualified landscape contractors to find one you are comfortable with who has the experience and know-how you are looking for. Imagine yourself sitting beside that fireplace on a cool evening, drink in hand, surrounded by the people you love.
Because at the end of the day, a truly perfect outdoor fireplace is about creating moments. Moments that warm not just your body, but your soul.Â
If you are in the market for a new Outdoor Fireplace or simply want to find out more about how to make your outdoor space more comfortable and inviting, click below to request a free consultation.