Gather ’Round

In the 350,000 or so years since human beings learned to control fire and expanded their range to colder climes, what was once an essential has become an accessory. But our fascination with fire has never cooled, and today, many feel that their backyards would be incomplete without a flame feature.

In short, fire pits are hot.

“In the last seven to 10 years, the popularity of outdoor living spaces has continued to increase,” explained Turner Prosser, the owner of the hardscaping company Keystone Design, which often works alongside Tallahassee Nurseries.

“In Tallahassee, each season brings something to enjoy, which makes outdoor living something people want for their home,” he said. “The fall season, especially, is considered the golden hour of outdoor living. Humidity levels are going down, bugs are subsiding and people can really enjoy a fire outside.”

Fire pits, and outdoor living spaces in general, are becoming increasingly popular, as they’re not only beautiful but allow for the creation of new memories and traditions. Photo by iStock / Getty Images Plus: PC Photography

Growing numbers of homeowners are making fire pits and barbecues part of their outdoor spaces. According to Prosser, people are looking for cost-effective ways to extend their homes and embrace the outdoors. Budgets for such projects, he said, range quite a bit, costing anywhere from $1,500 and up.

Low-cost fire pit alternatives include simple $500 kits that homeowners can install themselves and move around as they please, like a steel cauldron. More elaborate fixed fire pits may require assistance from a professional hardscaper and may cost thousands of dollars, depending on their size and the material used. Natural stone is a favorite and low maintenance, too.

“Cost really depends on how you plan to expand your space and the details involved,” Prosser said. “Outdoor fireplaces, which are really growing in popularity, are limitless in their features, which customers love because they can make nearly any idea come to life.”

Portable, stainless steel fire pits are durable and budget-friendly. Photo by iStock / Getty Images Plus: Steven White

Prosser said people often find that outdoor living spaces are more valuable than they realize, not only because of the “wow factor” but because of the new memories created.

Brittany Moore, a mother of two, said that adding to her outdoor space became a priority when she and her children moved into their new home — they wanted to spend more time outdoors and enjoy Tallahassee’s cool evenings. A fire pit became a collective want that eventually breathed new life into their backyard and established s’mores as a weekly family tradition.

“I love inviting our family and friends over, where the kids can have fun throwing the football or jumping on the trampoline while parents grill or roast marshmallows.”

While outdoor projects require time, thought and a financial commitment, rejuvenating and expanding your outdoor living space creates something that can be enjoyed and utilized day after day, year after year.

Outdoors

Tips for your backyard project 

Photo by iStock / Getty Images Plus: Wirestock

Shop Around for Ideas

Sites such as Pinterest and Google Images can be a huge (and free) source of ideas. Search “backyard ideas” on the sites, and you’ll be kept busy combing through thousands of photos.

Get a Plan

While talking things over at the house is a good start, hiring a designer will help turn your vision into a comprehensive, workable plan. Experienced designers are equipped with photos of tasteful and successful projects that can help you visualize possibilities.

Get a Budget

Whether $8,000 or $20,000, a budget helps iron out details for designers, installers and the homeowners themselves. That way, there are no last-minute surprises.

Research Installers

If you’re going to spend thousands of dollars on your home, it’s best to do some research on installers in your area. Get references on hardscapers to ensure they are competent and easy to work with.

Laci Swann contributed to this article.