How to Choose the Right Fire Feature for Your Outdoor Space
Your guide to fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and gas fire tables — designed for Seattle and the greater Puget Sound.
Thinking about adding a fire feature to your backyard but not sure where to start?
From cozy wood-burning fireplaces to sleek gas fire tables, the options are endless — and choosing the right one depends on more than just aesthetics. The Pacific Northwest brings its own considerations: wet weather, mixed-use patios, and the desire for year-round outdoor living.
Whether you're upgrading your backyard, designing a new build, or working with a client, this guide will help you find the perfect fire feature for your space, lifestyle, and climate.
What’s the Role of the Fire in Your Outdoor Setup?
Before jumping into products and fuel types, take a moment to think about how you want the fire to function in your outdoor space.
Entertaining: Looking to create a cozy focal point for guests to gather around? Consider something large and visible like a freestanding fireplace or a gas fire table.
Relaxation: If you’re picturing a quiet night under the stars, a compact wood-burning fire pit or fire bowl could be perfect.
Cooking: Want a functional fire feature? Some models, like the RB73 Quercus, include an oven and hot top plate for pizza, bread, and more.
Whether you're seeking ambience, heat, or a dual-purpose design, your goals will guide the right fit.
Match Your Fire Feature to Your Space
Not all backyards are created equal — and neither are fire features.
Here’s how to think about sizing and layout:
Small patios or decks → Consider a compact fireplace like the Quaruba L, or a gas fire bowl that doesn't take up floor space but still adds warmth and style.
Medium-sized outdoor living areas → A gas fire table or freestanding wood fireplace offers a great balance of heat, visual impact, and versatility.
Large or custom-designed spaces → Go big with a custom gas fire pit, outdoor kitchen with built-in grill, or even dual fire zones.
Tip: For compact or covered patios, gas may be a safer and cleaner option.
Gas or Wood: Which Fuel Type Is Right for You?
Here’s the breakdown:
Wood-Burning Fireplaces
Strong flame output
Authentic campfire feel
Sculptural materials like CorTen steel
Requires cleanup and dry wood storage
Gas Fire Features
Clean-burning, no ashes
Instant ignition with remote or key valve
Great for covered or high-use areas
Often requires professional install
Wood is about atmosphere and tradition. Gas is about ease and control. If you want both? Consider multiple zones or a hybrid approach.
Explore Gas Fire Features
Browse Wood Fireplaces
Built for the Pacific Northwest
Seattle weather is no joke — and not every fire feature holds up over time. That’s why we only carry products that are proven to perform here in the PNW.
CorTen steel fireplaces develop a protective rusted patina — no sealing required
Infratech patio heaters offer quiet, electric heat that’s rain-safe and zero-maintenance
Gas fire pits reduce the risk of soggy wood and smoke backdraft in covered areas
Whether you live in Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, or Gig Harbor, we can help you choose something beautiful and weather-hardened.
Style, Materials & Design Preferences
Once you’ve narrowed down function and fuel, let your style take the lead.
Love clean lines? → Check out our Quaruba series — modern cubes with optional glass sides.
Going rustic? → CorTen steel gives that warm, weathered finish that looks like it’s always belonged.
Minimalist or integrated look? → Try a ready-to-finish gas kit for full design control or opt for a custom outdoor kitchen with built-in fire.
And if you're working with a designer or contractor, we’re happy to coordinate delivery, install timing, or product recommendations.
Still Deciding? We’re Here to Help.
With so many fire feature options available — and so much riding on choosing the right one — it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Whether you’re building from scratch or upgrading your backyard, we’re here to help you find the fire pit, fireplace, or full outdoor kitchen that fits your space, budget, and lifestyle.
