Selecting the Right Materials for a Contemporary Fire Pit Outdoor

The early months of fall are some of the most optimal times to gather with friends and family around a cozy campfire. If you are a homeowner in the Pacific Northwest, you may wonder how you can make a modern and long-lasting fire pit for your family to enjoy.

To build a fire pit that will last a long time and maintain its visual appeal, you need to select materials that are high quality. Here at Western Interlock, we are committed to providing you with paving stones and hardscape supplies that will be both beautiful and durable.

In this blog post, we will help you think through the best materials you can select to build a contemporary fire pit for your backyard.

1. Choose Modern Paving Stones for the Fire Pit

The first step in selecting materials for your fire pit is to choose the paving stones in your preferred aesthetic. You should select pavers that are modern and sleek to maintain the contemporary look. A modern fire pit should also be built of pavers in either neutral tones or bold colors to create the contrast that often goes with the modern look.

You should also consider the texture, size, and shape of the paving stones you select for your fire pit. Worn, brick-style pavers probably will not give you a modern aesthetic, but smooth, clean lines probably will. Be selective as you browse through and choose the paving stones that you will enjoy for many years. 

2. Incorporate Metal Accents in Your Fire Pit

Metal accents are an ideal way to add modern touches to your fire pit. Choose from steel or aluminum edging for a small accent, or select something like a metal fire bowl insert or modern fire screen for a more significant statement piece. Your accents should complement the pavers you already selected, and the design style you have chosen for your yard and hardscape.

The benefit of metal accents is not only their aesthetic appeal—they are also fantastic materials for fire pits in general. They are durable and heat resistant, making them long lasting and ideal for enduring the intensity of a fire pit.

3. Optimize Firepit Functionality

As you select materials for your fire pit, make sure to consider the function of each piece. What size and shape will the fire pit be? Will it be fueled by wood, gas, or propane? Each of these factors will affect the final outcome of your fire pit.

As you make each decision, consider the available space for the fire pit area, and how you want the seating to be arranged around the fire.

You also should consider the safety features of the fire pit, and how you will accomplish proper ventilation to make it as pleasant and safe of a gathering place as possible.

4. Ensure Longevity and Fire Pit Durability

Finally, when selecting materials for your fire pit, make sure to choose products that are high-quality and will be resistant to the varied weather conditions that the PNW sees over the course of a year. We recommend materials made of concrete, stainless steel, or powder-coated metal to ensure the most durability possible.

Explore Additional Fire Pit Resources

Fire pits can be a beautiful way to add a contemporary touch to your property or backyard. To achieve the modern look in a way that will last, simply select sleek pavers that are either neutrally or boldly colored, incorporate some metal touches, and optimize the functionality of the fire pit with products that will hold up to the changing weather.
If you want more tips for installing and maintaining your pavers, check out our DIY with WI page for access to tutorials, guides, and more. If you’re ready to get started today with building your modern fire pit, click here to check out our selection of paving stones. Our team will be happy to assist you with any questions or personalized advice you need for your fire pit project.