Why a Retaining Wall and Fire Pit Make the Perfect Pair in the Reno, NV Area

As you plan the details of your Reno, NV, Area fire pit, consider adding a retaining wall to create the perfect pairing. While a fire pit can be amazing on its own, expanding the design can increase the privacy and functionality of this outdoor space. 

Related: Landscape Contractors in Reno, NV, Suggest These Retaining Wall Styles for a Paver Patio

Fire Pit Placement

One of the first decisions you will need to make can be where to place the fire pit in the landscape. Some homeowners like to have a patio with the fire pit as part of the space, while others prefer to position the fire pit in its own space. There is no right or wrong, only your personal preference. 

When the fire pit is connected to or part of the patio, the convenience of moving from one fire feature area to the main patio can be convenient and easy. However, if you like the idea of keeping the patio for only entertaining and relaxing, positioning the fire pit in its own space connected by stepping stones can unite them in a logical way.

Fire Pit and Retaining Wall Combinations

Combining a fire pit and retaining wall can make sense, especially when you need additional seating at times. The retaining wall can form the perimeter of the fire pit area. Built of stacked stone to complement the floor surface texture and color, the wall can be at your preferred height.

Free-standing Fire Pit: Adding a retaining wall to the free-standing fire pit can add to the feel of a destination within your landscape. A landscape professional can design stone steps for safe, comfortable access. If you choose to add landscape lighting to your outdoor space, they can install custom lanterns at the fire pit entrance for a visual signal that this is a unique outdoor area. 

Fire Pit in the Patio: If you decide to keep the fire pit as part of the main patio, positioning it off to one side can be a great way to incorporate this outdoor feature into the overall design. Adding a stone retaining wall here can give a visual boundary to the fire pit space as it remains part of the whole.

Within the patio, a landscape professional can vary the height of the retaining wall sides to increase privacy. This can be especially helpful when you have nearby neighbors and want to screen the fire pit area from a direct view. 

The tallest side of the retaining wall can incorporate a water feature to reduce the visual expanse. Planning a fire and water feature together can be an amazing sensory experience. Because water features recirculate water, this would be a low-maintenance addition for a big impact. 

Living Screen: If you are concerned about alienating neighbors, a landscape designer can plan and install a living screen on the tall retaining wall side to secure privacy without causing your neighbors to feel like you are shutting them out. Tall evergreen trees can be the perfect answer for year-round privacy and landscape color. 

A fire pit and retaining wall pairing can be what you need to expand the entertaining options of your backyard patio space. The perfect design can include pavers that are part of the existing patio blended with some new choices to allow the outdoor spaces to feel unique but connected. 

Related: 5 Reasons Landscaping Companies Suggest Adding a Retaining Wall to Your Reno, NV, Outdoor Entertaining Space