A fire pit is one of the most desirable outdoor features for any Batavia, IL backyard. Not only does a roaring fire offer an exciting visual element, but it also serves as a natural gathering point for people. Choosing the right shape for you firepit can be a deceptively complicated task, requiring a balance of the aesthetics, functionality and the design flow of your landscape.
Match to your landscape design
For most people, the term fire pit conjures up images of a traditional round fire pit to camp around. Round fire pits are generally favored for their softer, more organic design, as well as a throwback to the classic round campfire. The curved design makes them especially well-suited to more traditional and natural landscapes, especially ones that features a lot of curved paths and features.
In contrast to this, square and rectangular fire pits are more at home in more modern and formal backyard designs. The sleek lines give an impression of order and conformity in line with contemporary landscape design. If your existing landscape design has a lot of straight walls, walkways or a rectangular swimming pool, a square fire pit is definitely the optimal choice.
Practicality
Both shapes of fire pits offer different levels of practicality. Round fire pits have the advantage of a more uniform distribution of heat into the surroundings. Moreover, the round shape tends to feel more open and allows people to move about it more naturally while encouraging conversations. Round fire pits offer the opportunity for curved permanent seating walls that echo the shape of the fire pit design. Large pieces of moveable furniture, such as outdoor sofas and benches, however, can be difficult to arrange around a circular fire pit.
Square fire pits tend to be the more efficient option in terms of space, making them much more suitable for smaller yards and patios. Seating layouts are also generally much simpler around a square fire pit, whether you go for permanent seating or moveable patio furniture. You can also easily accommodate people with a straight retaining or seating wall.
Materials
The materials you plan to use for your fire pit can also influence the options available for the shape you can choose. Round fire pits are generally made of stacked stone or tapered concrete wall units which complement their rustic look. If you plan to use concrete units, the availability of tapered units in the style of your choice can be a limiting factor. In contrast to this, rectangular concrete wall units are the default shape, giving you a much wider range of options for a square or rectangular fire pit. This also makes them much easier to assemble.
Texture and color options also play a role in determining the shape. If you plan to use sleek, straight-edged pavers, a rectangular fire pit would match them more naturally. However, if you prefer the rustic look of stacked stone, a round fire pit can be an excellent option.
Existing design elements, space availability, practicality and material choices can all influence the shape of your fire pit. Keeping these factors in mind can ensure your fire pit integrates beautifully into your backyard.
