Trends in Outdoor Living: The Rise of the Custom Fire Feature
Quote from Larkin Landscape and Design on January 13, 2026, 7:10 amThe concept of the backyard has shifted. It is no longer just a patch of grass for the kids to run on; it is an extension of the home, a sanctuary for relaxation, and a prime venue for entertainment. At the forefront of this shift is the fire feature. As demand grows, designs are evolving. A modern fire pit contractor is no longer just stacking bricks in a circle; they are creating architectural statements that reflect the latest trends in outdoor living.
The Shift to Linear and Modern While the classic round campfire style remains timeless, there is a massive surge in demand for linear fire pits. These rectangular, elongated designs perfectly complement the clean lines of modern architecture. A fire pit contractor often installs these as dividers—separating a dining area from a lounging area without blocking the view. Linear pits often feature gas burners with a "ribbon" of flame. They are frequently finished with smooth, large-format porcelain tiles or polished concrete, moving away from the rugged, tumbled stone look of the past decade. This trend mirrors interior design trends, bringing the sleek, minimalist aesthetic of the living room into the open air.
Multi-Functionality: The Fire Table Homeowners are increasingly asking for versatility. They want a fire feature that serves a purpose even when the flame is off. Enter the "fire table." A fire pit contractor can build a custom fire pit with an extended coping or ledge that is wide enough to hold dinner plates and drinks. This dual-purpose design turns the fire pit into a casual dining table (often called "chat height"). When the fire is not in use, a custom insert can cover the burner, creating a full, usable table surface. This is particularly popular in smaller urban backyards where space is at a premium and every square foot must earn its keep.
Integration with Water Features The juxtaposition of fire and water is a trend that screams luxury. Contractors are receiving more requests to combine these opposing elements. Imagine a fire pit located next to a pool, where the reflection of the flames dances on the water. More advanced designs involve fire bowls with spillways, where water cascades out from under the fire bowl into a basin below. While complex to install, requiring expertise in both gas and plumbing, a skilled fire pit contractor can execute this to create a dramatic, resort-style focal point that engages both sight and sound.
Sustainable and Smokeless Options As homeowners become more eco-conscious and sensitive to air quality, "smokeless" wood-burning technology is gaining traction. These aren't your standard pits; they are engineered with double walls and specific airflow systems that re-burn the smoke before it escapes. A fire pit contractor can install these high-tech inserts into custom masonry, giving clients the best of both worlds: the crackle and heat of real wood without the stinging eyes and smoky clothes.
Smart Home Connectivity In the age of the smart home, the backyard is not being left behind. High-end gas fire pits can now be integrated into home automation systems. You can turn on your fire pit, adjust the flame height, and turn on the surrounding landscape lights all from a smartphone app or a voice command. A forward-thinking fire pit contractor stays updated on these technologies, working with electricians to provide clients with the ultimate convenience. Imagine arriving home from work and having your fire pit already glowing and welcoming you to the patio. From sleek linear designs to tech-enabled controls, the humble fire pit has graduated. It is now a sophisticated design element, and hiring a contractor who is tuned into these trends ensures your backyard feels current, luxurious, and uniquely yours.
The concept of the backyard has shifted. It is no longer just a patch of grass for the kids to run on; it is an extension of the home, a sanctuary for relaxation, and a prime venue for entertainment. At the forefront of this shift is the fire feature. As demand grows, designs are evolving. A modern fire pit contractor is no longer just stacking bricks in a circle; they are creating architectural statements that reflect the latest trends in outdoor living.
The Shift to Linear and Modern While the classic round campfire style remains timeless, there is a massive surge in demand for linear fire pits. These rectangular, elongated designs perfectly complement the clean lines of modern architecture. A fire pit contractor often installs these as dividers—separating a dining area from a lounging area without blocking the view. Linear pits often feature gas burners with a "ribbon" of flame. They are frequently finished with smooth, large-format porcelain tiles or polished concrete, moving away from the rugged, tumbled stone look of the past decade. This trend mirrors interior design trends, bringing the sleek, minimalist aesthetic of the living room into the open air.
Multi-Functionality: The Fire Table Homeowners are increasingly asking for versatility. They want a fire feature that serves a purpose even when the flame is off. Enter the "fire table." A fire pit contractor can build a custom fire pit with an extended coping or ledge that is wide enough to hold dinner plates and drinks. This dual-purpose design turns the fire pit into a casual dining table (often called "chat height"). When the fire is not in use, a custom insert can cover the burner, creating a full, usable table surface. This is particularly popular in smaller urban backyards where space is at a premium and every square foot must earn its keep.
Integration with Water Features The juxtaposition of fire and water is a trend that screams luxury. Contractors are receiving more requests to combine these opposing elements. Imagine a fire pit located next to a pool, where the reflection of the flames dances on the water. More advanced designs involve fire bowls with spillways, where water cascades out from under the fire bowl into a basin below. While complex to install, requiring expertise in both gas and plumbing, a skilled fire pit contractor can execute this to create a dramatic, resort-style focal point that engages both sight and sound.
Sustainable and Smokeless Options As homeowners become more eco-conscious and sensitive to air quality, "smokeless" wood-burning technology is gaining traction. These aren't your standard pits; they are engineered with double walls and specific airflow systems that re-burn the smoke before it escapes. A fire pit contractor can install these high-tech inserts into custom masonry, giving clients the best of both worlds: the crackle and heat of real wood without the stinging eyes and smoky clothes.
Smart Home Connectivity In the age of the smart home, the backyard is not being left behind. High-end gas fire pits can now be integrated into home automation systems. You can turn on your fire pit, adjust the flame height, and turn on the surrounding landscape lights all from a smartphone app or a voice command. A forward-thinking fire pit contractor stays updated on these technologies, working with electricians to provide clients with the ultimate convenience. Imagine arriving home from work and having your fire pit already glowing and welcoming you to the patio. From sleek linear designs to tech-enabled controls, the humble fire pit has graduated. It is now a sophisticated design element, and hiring a contractor who is tuned into these trends ensures your backyard feels current, luxurious, and uniquely yours.