Landscape Design Ideas for a Welcoming Fireside in West Bloomfield, MI

One of the things you might begin to think about as the days shorten is how to get the maximum use out of your West Bloomfield, MI, outdoor fire feature before the winter freeze arrives. Making a few landscape design changes can mean more time by the fire.

Related: 5 Things to Consider When Looking for Masonry Contractors in SE Michigan

Benefits of a Fire Feature

The advantages of a fire feature can be numerous—from providing warmth to giving a focal point to the landscape. Studies show that anticipating relaxing by the outdoor fire after a stressful week can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety and stress, and help you to refocus with some help from nature. 

Guests naturally gravitate to the fire area to chat and share stories, and it can be a special spot to reconnect with a loved one in these hectic days. A fire feature also gives your landscape a focal point and can be fun to decorate for the seasons. With all of these benefits, it can also add value to your home. 

Design Ideas for Fireside Fun

  • Patio paving stones: Over time, a patio surface made of poured concrete can begin to crumble and shift. Ensure that your guests have no tripping hazards by installing fresh patio paving stones. Available in an array of hues and sizes, there is a patio stone for virtually any house style—from modern to historic—to bring a safe yet gorgeous surface for your visitors to mingle safely. Choose a contrasting band to define the fire feature area, and you’ll have a special outdoor entertaining space.

  • A bar: If you have never thought of adding a bar to your fireside space, you will want to consider it now. You will come to love the ease with which you can entertain friends and family by the fire with a complete stone bar in easy proximity. With a refrigerator for chilling the white wine, a tap for self-serve beer, and a gas burner for warming cider, a bar might be just the feature you didn’t realize that you need.

  • Patio roof: While an open-air fire feature can be so wonderful, adding a roof to your fireside area can mean more time outdoors without being hindered by the weather. A covering can protect your furniture and provide a cozy place to curl up with a good book by the fire. Anchor the posts of the roof with stone column bases and you have a rustic retreat right in your own backyard. 

  • Illuminated walkway: If your fire feature is not close to your house and you have to step carefully through the yard to get there, consider installing a clear walkway using landscape stepping stones surrounded by gravel and lighting. This can make the fire feature more accessible once the sun has set and you really want to relax by the fire. A stable, well-lit walkway can keep your favorite spot available no matter when you want to enjoy a fire. 

How Your Landscape Design Experts Can Help

Your landscape design experts have the knowledge and experience you need when planning a West Bloomfield, MI, outdoor area with a fire feature or upgrading your outdoor fire feature area for extended usefulness. 

Related: How Masonry Contractors Can Improve Your Outdoor Dining Area in Birmingham, MI