AllBackYardFun

How to Incorporate Fire and Water Elements Into Your Outdoor Space Together

admin — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 22:45:13 +0000

Placing water and fire next to each other creates a dramatic effect for a backyard or outdoor space. Creatively placing these two elements together makes for a more complicated design plan, however and can be challenging. It is much easier to plan for the water feature first and then integrate the fire element afterwards. Build your site for the pond by outlining its overall shape and digging at least a foot to three feet deep. Cover the hole with water proofing liner and install an appropriately sized pump. Before filling it with water, plant multiple varieties of shrubs, flowers and green material around the border to make sure the pond blends in with its surroundings. When integrating the fire element, you can choose from several options. If you want to place the fire pit or fire pit table inside the pond itself, build a structure that it can be placed on and make sure that the inside or outside is water tight. This may mean using more liner inside the structure that the fire element will sit on to ensure that you don’t flood your new fire pit. If you want something separated, think of how high you want the fire feature and whether or not it should be used purely for decoration or could be used for heat. This will determine placement, height and more for the fire pit table. Focus on the purpose of the outdoor space, stick to your plans and the end result will be a water and fire combination that you will be proud to share with guests, friends and family.

Where To Place a Fire Pit In High Traffic Areas and More

admin — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 21:37:08 +0000

Using a fire element as an accent piece can be a difficult task if not thought of in advance. It is important when you are planning your space to be aware of the flow of traffic. Sometimes making your new fire pit table or fire pit the center of attention can break up the flow of traffic in way that isn’t necessarily ideal. If there are already elements in your yard, such as a pool, children’s playground equipment or other non moveable structures make sure to allow proper walking areas for guests and their children alike. For busy or over crowded areas, the placement of a fire element or feature such as a fire pit table should probably be best situated into a corner with low level seating or even set into the ground if possible. This will give the space a more intimate feel without having to build walls or structures around the area. It is also important to make sure that the structure around the fire pit table is 4 feet or higher to avoid a potentially dangerous situation for a young child. If there is a pool in the center of your yard, think of also incorporating the fire feature into a non-usable waterfall that flows into your pool. Keep your mind open to possibilities for building an outdoor space that involves several different features and you will have a result that is not only multifunctional but also dynamic in design.

Planning Your Outdoor Space

admin — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 21:10:16 +0000

Sometimes when planning out an outdoor space, there are too many options and not enough ground rules. When getting inspired remember to think about what may work for your space and only your space. The outdoors can have a dramatic effect on how we use the space. If your backyard is a total blank canvas and has no preset design elements, think of how you would like to use the space and what you would do most in the space. For example, if you are thinking that you will use it as a retreat like setting set up areas for reading, listening to music or simply relaxing. If you think that you may entertain, make sure to incorporate seating through the use of a traditional table and chairs or around a fire pit table. This will ensure that your guest will have a comfortable spot to rest when they enjoy your yard. On the other hand, if you have children and need a play area for them as well, build a sand plot inside a planter like shape along the wall of your fencing. This will prove to be a very flexible spot for when they grow, you can focus on growing that garden you always wanted. Whichever direction your design goes, make sure to think about the use of space beforehand. This will ensure that you and your guests will enjoy your new outdoor space now and hereafter.

Where Fire Pits Can Be Installed; Not Just For Your Backyard Anymore

admin — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:50:16 +0000

Just because most people use fire pits for warmth doesn’t mean that it is their only use. Thinking of creative ways to incorporate fire pits into an outdoor design can be hard, but when inspired by online pictures or catalogs you can find other ways to use fire as a surprising element in any design. Front yards can really make a large impact on arriving guests, friends or family with an addition of a fire pit or fire pit table as an element or accessory. For example, if you aren’t looking to redesign your backyard, you can also choose to include a fire pit into the design of your front yard. Although it may be more expensive, making a feature with your fire pit, such as surrounding gardening areas or a prominent water feature can really make an entrance your guests won’t forget. Use fire pits at the front gate entry of your driveway or place one in the center of your yard design. The lighting will make a dramatic entryway and keeps the path lit for much longer than traditional candles. Customize your lighting even more by lighting the driveway with low beams and colored lights by using outdoor mini lights. Think outside of the box when it comes to modifying your outdoor space, whether it’s behind or in front of your house.

Color Coordination with Fire Pits and Fire Pit Tables

admin — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 17:54:34 +0000

Using your fire pit or fire pit table as a centerpiece is always a good idea when decorating your outdoor space. When thinking of uses for your table, it is important to also utilize color schemes into your pit as well. The fire glass that is typically used in the center of gas fire pits can be coordinated with your theme. It also can act as an accent color. If you are choosing to do a design inside your fire pit table, be sure that the design goes along with your design for the rest of the outdoor space. Matching the colored glass rock inside the fire pit can really tie the look together. On the other hand, to really make the fire pit a main feature placing a contrasting bright rock might add a large pop of color. For example, if you were going for a clean, modern look you might want to purchase black or navy fabric for your outdoor seating. Making sure that the furniture has smooth, simple lines, by placing a bright orange hue of glass fire rock in the fire pit, you have successfully made the fire pit that focal point of the space. Accent this look with patterned pillows in that same orange hue and soon you will have a bright, modern, Moroccan feel to your outdoor space.

Canopies and More Coverings for Your Outdoor Space

admin — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 23:56:53 +0000

When it comes to choosing the covering that you want for your outdoor space, be sure to think about some of the elements in the space. For an outdoor design with fire pits or fire pit table incorporated, think about where the fire pit is located and what kind of coverings would be ideal for the space. Also think about where you are going to be putting the canopy or frame and if there are resources and room for the structure. Not everyone can have a fully shaded patio and sometimes the budget to have someone build a structure is just not there. The simplest way to cover an outdoor space is by draping an outdoor fabric across line connected to posts or other structural beams. This will allow for plenty of shade during the daylight hours and also provide enough airflow for a good fire from the fire pit table at night. If you are looking for something more structural, consider buying a canopy covering from a retailer with an airflow pocket in the center for the fire pit. This will ensure that the canopy won’t smoke you out on cold nights. Also consider building small block structures around the base of the legs for added support to the canopy. Even the toughest of canopies have issues with big guest of wind. Whether you tie fabric between structures or hire a professional to come build you a structure for your new fire pit, always think about airflow for your new fire pit with consideration of smoke to keep you and your guests, friends and family safe.

Finishing Touches for a Design That Pops

admin — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 23:34:26 +0000

Now that you have your fire pit or fire pit table all set up and ready to use, think of what areas are missing from the overall design. If you feel like your overall design is still lacking, don’t be afraid to jump online and get some inspiration from online galleries. For example, if your fire pit is on a bare piece of ground, think of incorporating plants or even grass around the area to give color and feel to the space. Use spacers or large flagstone to break up the grassy area, giving the space a more modern feel not to mention savings in your pocket. Also think about storage areas around the fire pit. If your fire pit is wood burning, look into investing in a nice metal wood barrel to store it in. It will not only act as storage, but several styles can be modified to fit the theme or design of your outdoor space, making it too a topic of conversation among guests, friends and family. Also try to incorporate additional lighting into the space, other than the fire pit itself. Candelabras bring an old world feel into the space, while shallow, dim lights along the base of a walkway give a more serene glow.

More Than Just Your Average Space; Designing Tips and Tricks

admin — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 22:51:10 +0000

Simply incorporating seating and a table with a covering or accessory can create a basic outdoor space. If you are looking for more than just a standard, basic, simple space you should make a list to make sure that you are getting all of the touches to the space that you want. The first area to think of is the ground cover and material used. If your outdoor space has a basic concrete area, think of creative ways to make the space feel more like an indoor space. One way is to incorporate an outdoor rug into the setting to give it a warmer, cozier feel. Another way to add color into the space is by staining the concrete. Choosing a pattern, such as a large diamond pattern, will give the space color as well as adding a motif and room like quality to your outdoor space. Next, think of the ceiling or covering that is going to be above the outdoor area. Shop for outdoor, rustic pieces that give the space some flair. Chandeliers and other fancier lighting give a formal feel to what was a boring, basic space. After addressing the space above, think about creating faux walls by hanging outdoor curtains that can easily open and close, giving flexibility to the space. Hang outdoor fixtures and wall pieces to the side of your home or outdoor walls to create a memorable scene. Last, but not least, choose comfortable furniture that is easy to clean and made from durable fabrics. Nowadays, furniture for an outdoor space can look almost exactly like your favorite couch that’s inside your living room. Make sure to shop around for the best prices and always find something that works for both you and your guests. In the end, you will have an amazing outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.

Creating an Outdoor Space for Any Occasion

admin — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 19:07:24 +0000

Special occasions always call for a celebration and the gathering of loved ones and family. Let your outdoor space become the perfect venue for any occasion with the introduction of simple outdoor accessories and homemade touches. When decorating and adding these accessories, make sure that you have a planned theme in mind. Color schemes and more decorating tips can be very helpful when making these plans. Researching and getting inspired through online photos and picture galleries can help you find most tips and decorating advice. Streamers and balloons may be the staple of every outdoor party, but make sure that you think outside the box too. Create special lighting by putting candles in mason jars full of water give warmth and glow to the space. Lighting a small fire or planting candles in a fire pit or fire pit table also is a nice touch. If the party is during the day, use the mason jars as glasses for lemonade with slices of fruit to give your guest a homier feel to their favorite beverage. If possible, fill your fire pit table up with water and float candles or heads of flowers inside to create a stand-alone water feature that adds to your party’s flair.

Shopping for a Fire Pit Table; Online Purchases versus Retail Stores

admin — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 18:09:36 +0000

As you are shopping around the retail stores and looking through catalogs for your new fire pit or fire pit table, don’t forget to also check online for a discount or deal. Several retail stores offer discounts at a higher rate as compared to retail stores due to the amount of inventory that needs to be moved or even a special one-day coupon that can only be used online. Finding your fire pit in a retail store is a great way to ensure that you will enjoy your fire pit when it arrives. Even though you may not find the exact model or style that you wanted, be sure to ask the sales people about the quality of the piece, if it has been returned often and what common problems that their customers have had with the manufacture. If nothing has been noted from customers, ask them about price matching, their return policy and if they have any online deals as well. Remember when purchasing though that you should shop around for your purchase. If a deal seems to good to be true, it may be, so feel free to take note of it and move on. Missing out on an amazing deal may be worth it if you find a better quality product from a more reputable dealer.