Outdoor stone fireplace design has come a long way in recent years . . . . . .
The immense popularity of
outdoor rooms
has re- sulted in some very creative fireplace design ideas, giving homeowners
numerous opportunities to per- sonalize their outdoor fire spaces.
Stone
is a wonderful medium for creative expression. It comes in a wide range of
sizes, shapes, colors and textures and can be used to create some very
dis- tinctive outdoor fireplace designs. By varying the size and shape of the
stones, as well as mixing textures and colors, you can build a uniquely personal
fireplace that is the envy of your neigh- bors.
Fortunately, it doesn't take that much to transform a "so-so" composition to
a stunning, attention-grabbing work of art. For example, the stonework on the
fire- place at right consists of stones that are fairly similar in size, shape, color
and texture . . . . as does the stonework on the fireplace directly below. However,
in both examples, the strategic placement of a small number of bricks in a sharply
contrasting color makes a striking differ- ence!
Note the variations in stone color in each of the two fireplaces below, as well
as the way the stone frames the firebox opening below left. Contrasts such as these
lend both visual and architectural interest to the designs.
The following example (below left) uses stones of varying textures and colors for
visual impact. Below right, a series of moulded recesses in the smoothly finished
stone mantel and surround lends an air of elegance and sophistica- tion to this fireplace
design.
The following two examples show how a little customization can infuse your design
with a lot of personalization when creating your outdoor stone fire- place. Note the
built-in niches on the fireplace below (left) and the design above the firebox opening
on the fireplace to the right.
The photos below demonstrate how special lighting can add visual impact and drama
to an outdoor stone fireplace design.
Another important consideration is where to position an outdoor fireplace on your
property, as well as how to delineate the space for your outdoor "room." The two examples
below make very efficient use of outdoor space. Built into the side of a hill, they are
ideal for backyards with a limited area and effec- tively utilize space that would otherwise
not be used.
One way to effectively delineate the space for an outdoor room is to extend a low
stone wall outward from both sides of the fireplace, as in the two ex- amples below.
Another method is to erect a pergola over the area designated for your room, as shown
below. Not only is it an attractive way to "frame" an outdoor living room, but it provides
a sense of privacy, as well as partial shade from the hot summer sun.
For more information about any of the outdoor stone fireplace designs pictured here, please
let us know and we'll be happy to provide it for you.
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as we continually add new images of outdoor stone fireplace designs to our site.
