Outdoor Fire Pit vs. Fireplace: 5 Things to Consider
Great Lakes Landscape Design June 11, 2025
Great Lakes Landscape Design June 11, 2025
When homeowners decide to expand their outdoor living spaces, they often get stuck on the decision of whether to choose an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit. They think, “They both provide light, warmth, and ambiance, right? So, the decision isn’t really that important.” To this, we would say, it actually does matter. There are distinct differences between fire pits and fireplaces, and because of these differences, you will want to choose your source of fire carefully. Below, we explore the top five factors you should weigh when considering a fire pit vs. an outdoor fireplace.
Think about how you plan to use your outdoor living space. Are you envisioning cozy evenings with a few friends, sipping wine and chatting late into the night? Or do you picture lively gatherings with everyone seated in a circle, laughing and roasting marshmallows?
Outdoor fireplaces are typically designed for more intimate settings. They help create a cozy focal point that is ideal for small gatherings and romantic evenings. Plus, since they are usually installed against a wall and face outward, they provide the perfect opportunity for more of a structured seating layout. In contrast, fire pits offer 360-degree access and have a more casual feel, making them great for larger groups and more interactive settings.
Not every backyard is laid out the same, which means the available space you have can significantly influence whether an outdoor fireplace or fire pit is more suitable. In our experience, fireplaces require a bit more architectural planning — they need a solid foundation and adequate clearance, not to mention a design that integrates seamlessly with the rest of your landscape.
On the other hand, fire pits are more versatile in terms of placement. Their lower profile makes them ideal for both small and large spaces, and you can install them in the middle of a patio, along the edge of a garden, or even incorporate them into a deck design. If space is tight, a fire pit may be the more practical choice.
How much are you looking to invest in your outdoor living space? This is often where the outdoor fireplace vs. fire pit debate gets real. Fire pits are generally more budget-friendly and come in a wide range of options, from simple metal bowls to custom-built stone features. They also require less labor and materials to install.
In contrast, outdoor fireplaces can be a significant investment. They often involve extensive masonry and chimney construction as well as gas line installations. Of course, when you choose an outdoor fireplace, you are not simply paying for its construction. You’re also investing in a stunning architectural element that can add serious value to your home. If you have the budget and want something grand and enduring, a fireplace would be worth the splurge.
What look are you going for in your outdoor space? Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits can both be visually appealing, but they offer different stylistic vibes. Fireplaces lend an air of sophistication, acting as a striking backdrop or anchoring your entire outdoor living space.
Fire pits, on the other hand, tend to have a more rustic or relaxed charm. They invite a campfire-style setting, encouraging guests to gather around, kick back, and stay awhile. If you want a space that feels like a natural extension of a casual garden or backyard, a fire pit might be the better fit. But if your goal is a luxurious, resort-style environment, the fireplace is hard to beat.
Because outdoor fireplaces contain their flames within a structure and usually have a chimney to control smoke, they are often viewed as safer in densely built neighborhoods. Fire pits, particularly wood-burning ones, might be restricted in some areas due to their open design and potential for sparking. Always check with your local ordinances before making a final decision between a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace.
By now, it should be clear that the choice between a fire pit vs. an outdoor fireplace is far from arbitrary. From how you plan to use the space to the size of your backyard, your budget, design preferences, and even local fire codes, each factor plays a role in determining which feature is right for you.
Whether you’ve already made up your mind or you’re still on the fence, Great Lakes Landscape Design is here to help. Our experienced landscape designers take the time to understand your lifestyle, space limitations, and aesthetic goals to guide you toward the landscape features that meet your needs while elevating and coordinating with your home’s overall design. Our landscape installation team then brings your vision to life with a keen eye for detail and careful craftsmanship.
Contact our experts today and let us help you ignite the perfect backyard experience!
