Dear Alice | Outdoor Spaces and Fireplaces

In this week’s podcast, we’re chatting about outdoor spaces and fireplaces! Over the past year, we’ve learned how incredibly important our outdoor spaces are- especially if you’ve got a cozy fireplace to hang out around with all of your favorite people. This week’s episode can be found on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or Google Podcast.

We love a good deck, patio or a pool- you can never go wrong! Conversation and s’mores are such a dream and days last longer when you’re around an inviting fireplace. Rather than winding down in the evening, an outdoor experience will bring you so much joy and want to bring people over. It’s both therapeutic and poetic. 

Don’t put stone benches around the fire; be nice to your guests and get comfy seating- if you build it they will come. In desert/dry climates, stick to high quality metals in your furniture so they stand the test of time because outdoor furniture isn’t cheap. Like we always say- buy once, cry once! If a piece looks uncomfortable, it probably is. Make sure to space plan seating so the seating is the perfect distance away from the fire without being too hot or too far away. By a pool house is such a fun area to add a fireplace because of all the fun elements coming together. Make sure there’s a stool or smaller accent table so it’s functional and can be used to place things on. The pandemic taught us that we only want spaces that are functional, beautiful and comfortable so really invest in them!

Some people may recommend using a wood burning fireplace for s’mores and cooking food but we wouldn't worry about it tasting like gas if you buy a gas fireplace. Smoke travels so thats a win for gas and it has a more authentic feel. The fireplace table is very resort and fun to put your feet on although it’s not the best to warm yourself unless you’re super close to it so weight out those pros and cons.

Space is more usable when it’s shaded and not overbearingly hot so it might be nice to have a pergola, umbrella or shade cover.

Consider how to winterize your pieces; you’ll need to find out whether you’ll have covers or put them in storage.

Have fun with your outdoor lighting- use sconces or globe lights to really create an ambiance and help people find your home if they need to go to the bathroom. Landscaper can help with lighting most of the time!

The floor of your outdoor spaces don’t have to be concrete; you can use limestone, pavers (are so dang charming!), blue stone, concrete in large squares with turf in between, or pebble gravel (not fun to walk in heels over or barefoot)- the possibilities are truly endless!

Bring attitude to the space with accent pieces- generous planters, teak root balls, and fun side tables. Be cautious when working with a landscaper to make sure that they don’t attract bees and wasps but check if you could put an aromatic, cutting or vegetable garden. You could have vegetables or herbs growing around your spaces.

All in all, we’re just excited that these spaces are being brought to the forefront as important spaces to invest and spend time in! This simmer is going to be the best one yet! Any questions or podcast ideas? Email us at dearalice@alicelanehome.com