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 barbeque or for relaxing after a long day at work, a fire pit serves as an ideal space for family and friends to gather year round.

If you’re building a patio from scratch, you’ll need to decide the ideal size of the space, 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. Plus, we’ll introduce you to our concrete pavers, stone fire pits and fireplaces at Unilock, made from the highest quality materials.

Looking for top-quality pavers? 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 fire pit.

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 providing ample room to move around and enjoy an intimate atmosphere.

Here are some details on the ideal patio size you’ll need to house both a round and rectangular fire pit.

1. Ideal Patio Size for a Round Fire Pit

If you have a medium-sized round fire pit— 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, determine the size and shape of the fire pit you want to install. These factors will play a key role in how large your patio space will need to be, in order 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 air flow.

Place your fire pit in an open space, away from any hanging branches and flammable plants, including eucalyptus, ornamental juniper and rosemary. The fire pit should ideally be 10 to 25 feet from your home, vehicle and other structures.

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 personal style.

For example, if you want a uniformed 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 an accent border to draw the eye toward the fire pit.

If you’re looking to add texture to your patio, opt for cobblestones, such as the Courtstone® and Nordic Cobble™, to deliver a timeworn, elegant look and feel to your outdoor space.

4. Plan the Seating Area

The next step is to arrange your seating area by placing chairs or outdoor furniture around the fire pit, with enough room to make sure everyone can move around comfortably. Select outdoor seating that mimics the fire pit’s shape to create conversation zones.

Some things to consider 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.

• Bookend your seating areas with lovely side tables, in order to place 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 splashes of color;
• Plant shrubs or trees to add privacy to your space;
• Hang string lights around the perimeter of your space to create a dreamy evening atmosphere;
• Set up an outdoor area with extra seating as an additional gathering space for guests

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? We’ve got you covered. Take a look at some of our design recommendations to get inspired.

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 adjacent water feature. 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 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 personal style and truly make the space your own.  Check out our L-shaped Anchorlock™ paver if unique is what you’re after!

How to Protect Your Patio From a Fire Pit

Here are some tips for keeping cozy and comfy 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 fire pit 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 & Fire Pits at Unilock

For over 50 years, we’ve committed to manufacturing cutting-edge paver and wall products that have led to the creation of 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, slabs and retaining wall units and natural stone for residential use. Any materials installed and maintained to our guidelines, and subject to normal wear, that prove defective, will be replaced without cost.

Some of our popular patio 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 timeworn beauty of European street pavers. Ideal for accent borders on a driveway or walkway.
• Beacon Hill™ Smooth — Smooth surface texture that boasts a contemporary color palette. Perfect for modern walkways and patios.
• Umbriano® — A popular choice for sleek and modern finishes. Designed with ColorFusion™ Technology, this paver has a mottled, granite-like surface appearance that offers a natural, non-slip texture.

At Unilock, we also offer both stone fire pits and pre-built fireplaces ready for quick install and immediate use.

Whether you’re looking to build your own patio or purchase a pre-built 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