Your lawn’s in tip-top shape, so now it’s time to turn your backyard into an even more inviting living space. In this Done-In-A-Weekend Projects video, host and landscape designer Doug Scott shares tips on how to create a DIY fire pit area that will look and function just like a room in your house. And you could even consider creating a quick and easy firewood rack, while you’re at it!
Naturally, we all love a warm backyard gathering area—especially one perfect for fireside moments with family and friends. And, making it a reality isn’t as hard as you might think. From custom-built to stacked stone or paver options, there are a ton of options and budget ranges for a backyard fire pit. This video focuses on an easy, cost-effective DIY option for creating and beautifying a space for a portable fire pit in 5 easy steps.
Steps to Make a Simple DIY Fire Pit Area
How to create a backyard fire pit area that will look and function just like a room in your house.
- Select a location
After verifying that a backyard fire pit is allowed in your area, choose a space that is at least 10 feet from your house or any other man-made structure. Also make sure there is plenty of room to sit and walk-around your fire pit safely. A 15 to 18 foot diameter area is a good rule of thumb.
- Mark your fire pit area
Place a stake in the center of the area you selected. Then, tie a string that is 15 to 18 feet long and stretch it out. Walk in a circle and mark your pit area with landscape paint.
- Prep the area
Remove any grass, then rake and level the area. You can also install rumble strips, paver stones or other edging materials to further define the area along the landscape paint.
- Create the fire pit “floor”
A fire-resistant material like gravel, pavers, or cement is best. For our project, we used clay chips because they matched the décor we were looking to achieve.
- Finish the area
Place the portable fire pit in the center of your circle. Then, add seating, plants and other items to make your space into a cozy gathering area. Our project included Adirondack chairs, a cooler, planters and some stumps for stools. Use your own creativity to transform your backyard fire-pit area into something as unique as you are.
Now that you have set up your unique area, it’s time to enjoy a campfire meal or fireside chats with friends and family . . . And s’mores, of course!
