Ideal Patio Size for a Fire Pit + How to Design Around a Fire Pit

Installing a fire pit on a patio can transform your outdoor living space into a cozy and inviting oasis. 

Whether it’s for socializing at a barbecue, or for relaxing after a long day at work, a fire pit serves as an ideal spot for family and friends to gather year-round. 

If you’re building a patio from scratch, you’ll need to decide how big to make it, and what materials you’ll use. If you’re working with a patio that’s installed and ready to go, you’ll want to make sure it’s big enough to comfortably house the fire pit you have your eye on.  

That’s where we come in. 

We’ll share the ideal patio size for a fire pit, along with some patio paver ideas and tips to protect your patio.

Looking for top-quality fire pits and fireplaces? Explore our selection at Unilock

What is the Ideal Patio Size for a Fire Pit?

So, how big should a patio be for a fire pit? The ideal patio size for a fire pit ultimately depends on the size and shape of the pit, as well as how many people can comfortably sit around it. 

In general, a good rule of thumb is to plan at least six feet of room on all sides, between the fire pit and the edge of the patio. 

With this space, guests will be able to sit at a comfortable distance from the heat and stray sparks, while being able to move around with ample walking space and still enjoy an intimate set-up. 

We’ve broken up the ideal patio size for both a round and rectangular fire pit. 

1. Ideal Patio Size for a Round Fire Pit

If your round fire pit is medium-sized — 3 feet, for example — your patio should have a diameter of at least 15 feet total. This will allow you to accommodate four to six chairs or a small, curved conversational sofa.

2. Ideal Patio Size for a Square or Rectangular Fire Pit

If your square or rectangular fire pit is large — 6 feet, for example — your patio should be at least 18 feet total. This will allow you to accommodate six to eight chairs or a medium-sized sectional sofa.

How to Design a Patio Around a Fire Pit 

  From the pavers you choose to landscaping, pillows, and other décor, here are our top tips for designing a patio around a fire pit.

1. Determine the Size and Shape of the Fire Pit  

First, you’ll need to identify the size and shape of the fire pit you want to install. These factors will play a key role in how large your patio will need to be, to include seating areas and walkways that are both safe and comfortable for guests.

2. Choose the Location

Next, choose a location that is safe and allows for proper airflow. 

Place your pit in an open space, away from overhanging branches and flammable plants, including eucalyptus, ornamental juniper, and rosemary. 

The fire pit should ideally be 15 to 25 feet from your home, vehicle, and other structures, and should be situated in a place where prevailing winds will not blow smoke into neighboring properties. 

3. Choose Your Patio Paver

From flagstone to concrete pavers and beyond, you can choose from a wide variety of patio pavers based on material, color, or shape. 

Choose a material for your patio that complements the fire pit, the surrounding landscape, and your style. 

For example, if you want a uniform look, you can match your stone fire pit with patio pavers made of flagstone.  

If you want your fire pit to be the focal point of your hardscape project, you can utilize two different pavers in contrasting colors, using one as a border to draw the eye to the fire pit. 

If you’re looking to add texture to your patio, consider choosing a paver with a subtle surface texture that is comfortable to walk on, combined with decorative accent pavers, such as the Courtstone® and Nordic Cobble™.

4. Plan the Seating Area

The next step is to arrange the seating area around the fire pit. Position chairs or outdoor furniture in a way that allows for comfortable movement. Opt for outdoor seating that mirrors the fire pit’s shape, creating distinct conversation zones. For added comfort, consider adding a low seat wall behind chairs for additional seating options.

When planning your seating area: 

• For a round fire pit: Place Adirondack chairs or curved sectionals around the pit 
• For a square fire pit: Place Adirondack chairs or loveseats on each side 
• For a rectangular fire pit: Place a bench or a sectional sofa on each long side, with Adirondack chairs on the shorter sides 

Unilock tip: Wondering how far chairs should be from a fire pit? Check out our guide! 

5. Add Décor   

From décor to landscaping, there are many ways you can transform your patio into an intimate, outdoor oasis. 

• Position side tables between seating areas to ensure a convenient spot for enjoying a cup of coffee or a glass of wine
• Add cushions or pillows to your seating area for extra comfort 
• Add potted flowers around your patio for pops of color 
• Plant shrubs or trees to add privacy to your space 
• Hang string lights to turn on at night for a dreamy evening atmosphere 

Unilock tip: Check out our guide on how to incorporate landscape lighting into your outdoor project! 

Looking for patio design ideas? Request a design catalog

Patio Paver Ideas for a Fire Pit 

Looking for patio paver ideas for your outdoor space? Take a look at some of our design recommendations for inspiration. 

1. Create an Accent Border to Highlight the Fire Pit

This homeowner opted for our Copthorne® pavers to serve as an accent border around the square fire pit, creating a subtle division between the pit and seating area. This simple yet effective design choice helps make the fire pit the true focal point of the patio.

2. Use Similar Hues to Make the Space Appear Larger 

The Umbriano® pavers in this design offer a modern patio look, thanks to the clean lines they provide. Matching the fire pit’s color, the shades throughout the patio are light and airy, offering a contemporary look and allowing the patio space to feel even larger.

3. Opt for Different Shapes to Create a Unique Look 

An architectural style that became popular in the 1850s, the octagonal pattern is a patio paver trend that offers a unique spin on a modern patio. 

Opting for a standout shape allows you to reflect your style and truly make the space your own.

How to Protect Your Patio From a Fire Pit 

 Here are some tips for keeping cozy outside without starting a fire hazard. 

• Consider an above-ground fire pit: An above-ground fire pit can minimize the heat on your patio’s surface. 
• Use the right type of fuel or wood: If you have a gas fire pit, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure to use the correct type of fuel. If you have a wood-burning fire pit, use dry, seasoned wood such as elm, ash, or oak to reduce the risk of sparks and embers. Avoid using softwoods, like pine and birch, because they produce more sparks. 
• Do not overload the fire pit: Be careful not to overload the fire pit with an excess of wood or fuel, as this can create a larger flame and increase the risk of embers and sparks spilling over. 
• Use a fire pit pad: A fire pit pad is a protective mat made of heat-resistant stone and metal that can be placed under the fire pit to protect your patio’s surface from heat, sparks, gas, and ash. 
• Install a fire pit screen: A fire screen can add an extra layer of protection by preventing embers from escaping the fire pit and potentially starting a fire on your patio. 
• Use a fireplace poker: Use a fireplace poker to move around wood in the fire. 
• Utilize a fire ring: A fire ring can help prevent the fire pit’s embers from spreading onto your patio. 
• Use fire bricks: Lay fire bricks between your patio surface and the fire pit to prevent your patio pavers from cracking. 
• Add a layer of sand: Pour at least two inches of sand at the bottom of the fire pit before lighting it. Creating an additional layer between the fire and wood can minimize the sparks. 
• Remove flammable material around the fire pit: Remove leaves, twigs, mulch, plants, and debris around your firepit to reduce the risk of a fire outside of the pit. 
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby: Store a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, you can also prepare a bucket of sand or a five-gallon bucket of water to help extinguish the fire if needed. 
• Invest in a fire blanket: Made of woven fiberglass material, a fire blanket can help extinguish fire and sparks. 
• Clean up after each use: After each use, make sure you clean up any debris, such as ashes or wood chips, to reduce the risk of a fire starting on your patio. 

Explore Concrete Pavers and Fire Pits at Unilock 

At Unilock, we have committed years of service to building world-class outdoor spaces across Canada and the United States. As a market leader in the paving stones and retaining wall industry, we manufacture the highest class of products and offer exceptional customer service. 

The best part? We provide a Transferable Lifetime Guarantee on our paving stones and retaining wall units for residential use. 

Our best-selling pavers include: 

• Artline™ — Modernize your outdoor patio with clean lines. Typically installed in a running bond pattern to create a long and linear look. 
• Copthorne® — Inspired by the streets of Europe. Ideal for accent borders on plain patio pavers. 
• Beacon Hill™ Smooth — Contemporary with a smooth finish. Perfect for modern walkways and patios. 
• Umbriano® — A popular choice for sleek and modern finishes. Equipped with ColorFusion™ Technology, this paver offers a natural, non-slip texture. 

At Unilock, we also offer both stone fire pits and prebuilt fireplaces ready for quick installation and immediate use. 

Whether you’re looking to build your patio or purchase a prebuilt fire pit for your outdoor space (or both!), you can find your unique style with our extensive selection at Unilock!

Ready to transform your outdoor space? Find a Unilock Authorized Contractor