Cozy Corner Outdoor Fireplace Plans

Nestled in the heart of your outdoor space, a corner outdoor fireplace can add a warm, inviting touch, transforming it into a cozy, welcoming haven. These fire features aren't just aesthetically pleasing; they're also functional, providing heat and ambiance for those chilly evenings spent outside. Building a corner outdoor fireplace involves careful planning and execution. Let's dive into the world of DIY fireplace plans, guiding you through the process with step-by-step instructions, expert advice, and inspiring ideas.

Whether you're a skilled DIYer or a beginner taking on your first big project, creating a corner outdoor fireplace is an exciting venture. The sense of accomplishment you'll feel once you've completed your project is unmatched. So, grab your hard hat and let's get started!

Choosing Your Fireplace Design

Before you grab your tools and supplies, you need to decide on the perfect design for your corner outdoor fireplace. Consider your home's architecture, the size of your outdoor space, and your personal style. Do you prefer a conventional brick and mortar design, or perhaps a contemporary, sleek stone fireplace?

Corner fireplaces offer versatility. They can be built into an existing patio or deck, or constructed as part of a new hardscaping project. For a rustic look, consider using reclaimed wood or natural stones. For a more modern aesthetic, opt for clean, straight lines and geometric patterns. Here are a few design ideas to spark your inspiration:

Classic Brick and Mortar

The timeless charm of a brick and mortar fireplace is undeniable. This classic design can be dressed up or down to suit various styles. Use it as a focal point in your garden, or integrate it into your patio design for a cohesive look.

Remember, while bricks offer durability and longevity, they may require more frequent maintenance than other materials. Re-pointing and cleaning are necessary to keep your brick fireplace looking its best.

Sleek Stone Fireplaces

Stone fireplaces are a popular choice for their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Natural stones like travertine, limestone, or bluestone can be used to create a stunning, elegant outdoor fireplace that's perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your space.

Stones are also highly versatile. They can mimic the look of brick, or be arranged in a modern, geometric pattern for a contemporary feel. Be sure to choose stones that complement your home's exterior and landscaping.

Planning Your Fireplace Project

Once you've decided on your design, it's time to start planning. Measure your space to ensure your fireplace fits perfectly in the corner. Consider the size of the firebox, the height of the structure, and the space required for seating.

A well-planned project starts with the right tools. You'll need a trowel, shovel, level, tape measure, brick or stone cutter (or a wet saw if you're using natural stones), and safety gear like goggles and a mask. Don't forget your work gloves – they'll protect your hands from cuts, scrapes, and burns. With the right tools and a detailed plan, you're ready to start building.

Preparing the Site

Before you begin construction, clear the area where your fireplace will be built. Remove weeds, grass, and any debris. If you're building on a patio or deck, ensure the surface is stable and level. If not, you may need to replace or repair the existing surface before proceeding.

Next, mark out the exact location of your fireplace using stakes and string. This will help you visualize the size and shape of your project and ensure it's centered in the corner.

Building the Foundation

Whether you're building on a solid surface or from scratch, a proper foundation is crucial. It supports the weight of the structure and protects it from uneven settling or cracking. For a corner outdoor fireplace, a simple concrete base should suffice.

To create the foundation, dig a hole at least 6 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the size of your fireplace. Fill the hole with gravel, compacting it thoroughly with a tamper. Then, pour concrete over the gravel, filling the hole completely. Allow the concrete to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions before proceeding with your build.

Constructing Your Fireplace

Now that your foundation is set, it's time to start building the main structure of your corner outdoor fireplace. Here, we'll focus on a basic brick and mortar design, but the principles can be applied to other materials like stone.

Start by laying a row of bricks around the perimeter of your foundation, ensuring they're level and properly spaced. Use the brick you'll use for the body of the fireplace to maintain a consistent look. We'll call this the 'first course.'

Building the Firebox

The firebox is the heart of your fireplace. It's the space where the fire burns, and it needs to be properly insulated to protect your structure from intense heat. Use fire bricks (also known as refractory bricks) for the firebox walls and floor. These bricks are designed to withstand high temperatures without cracking.

Lay your fire bricks in a repeating pattern, leaving a slight gap between each brick for expansion. The size of the firebox will depend on the intended use of your fireplace. For a traditional, wood-burning fire, a box that's 24 inches wide by 16 inches high and 12 inches deep is generally sufficient.

Building the Chimney

The chimney is responsible for carrying smoke and fumes up and out of your fireplace. It needs to be large enough to support a strong draft, but not so large that it causes the fire to smolder or struggle to ignite.

Using regular bricks, construct a box that's slightly smaller than your firebox. Lay courses of bricks, applying mortar to the joints as you go. Be sure to keep the interior of the chimney clear of debris as you build.

Once you've reached the desired height, leaving the center open for smoke to escape, create a chimney cap to keep out rain and animals. You can buy pre-made metal chimney caps or create your own using volcanic rock or other heat-resistant materials.

Finishing Touches

With the structure of your corner outdoor fireplace complete, it's time to add those final touches that will enhance its appearance and functionality.

For starters, apply a layer of concrete or stone veneer to the exterior of your fireplace. This not only protects the bricks from the elements but also adds a touch of elegance to your design.

Adding a Fireplace Mantel

A mantel is a great way to add height and visual interest to your corner outdoor fireplace. It also provides a surface for displaying decorative items. Use a piece of sturdy, weather-resistant wood, or create a mantel from stone or cement to match the look of your fireplace.

Secure the mantel to the fireplace using brackets or screws, ensuring it's level and stable. For safety, leave a gap of at least 12 inches between the mantel and the flames.

Installing a Fireplace Screen

A fireplace screen provides an essential safety barrier, preventing sparks and embers from flying out of the firebox. It also adds a decorative touch to your fireplace.

Choose a screen that complements the style of your fireplace. For a traditional look, opt for a wrought iron screen with an ornate design. For a modern aesthetic, consider a stainless steel or glass screen with clean lines and minimalist details.

Embrace the warmer evenings ahead with a corner outdoor fireplace that's as functional as it is beautiful. And remember, the best DIY projects are the ones you can be proud to call your own. Happy building!