Outdoor fireplace designs for small spaces
Explore how a well-chosen outdoor fireplace can add real value to smaller properties, boosting both functionality and aesthetic appeal. With clever layouts and smart material choices, you’ll see how an outdoor fireplace can be the perfect addition to any smaller New Zealand garden or urban space.
In this article, we discuss how to make the most of a small backyard with space-efficient fireplace designs.
How to plan a small outdoor space
There are many benefits of an outdoor entertaining area, whether you’re entertaining friends and family or want a more intimate setting. Based on the purpose of your space, you can determine what you need to incorporate in the layout.
As a general rule, we recommend starting your outdoor layout with two key components — comfortable seating and an eye-catching focal point. The seating will make the space feel inviting while the focal point will draw you in and create a feature to base the rest of your design on. Common focal points include fireplaces, fire pits, pizza ovens, and spa pools.
Discover our range of smaller concrete outdoor fireplaces in New Zealand.
Small backyard layouts
Depending on the area you have available, try experimenting with these layouts to find the best option for you.
Small outdoor lounge
If you have a patio, consider arranging two sofas on either side of an outdoor fire. This way, you can keep warm all evening and have a central coffee table for dining or playing games with your family.
Fire pit with seating
With a fire pit, you can arrange seating so that everyone can feel the radiant heat. Why not pair our fire pit with two seats so you can enjoy the view and a glass of New Zealand wine?
Cosy patio
There’s no need for a massive outdoor space – keep it simple with two seats and a small fireplace. This creates an intimate and cosy atmosphere and is ideal for relaxing after a long day.
L-shaped outdoor kitchen
If you enjoy hosting and dining outdoors, we recommend an L-shaped layout for efficient use of space. This way, you can fit a fireplace, a barbecue, lounge seating, and a dining table.
Outdoor room
If your outdoor living space is limited, try to create an extension of your interior with an outdoor room. This space will flow seamlessly from indoors, making the most of your available space.
To make the spaces feel connected, consider adding a louvre roof and using cohesive materials.
Fireplace regulations and consent
If your fireplace is lower than 2.5 metres, more than 1 metre from the boundary, and has less than 1 sqm of cooking area, you don’t need building consent. However, if your outdoor fireplace will be attached to the exterior wall of your home, you will need building consent regardless of the dimensions. To learn more, read our article about consent for fireplaces.
In some cases, you may also need a fire permit to light a fireplace within 3 metres of the legal boundary. You can find the specific rules for your local area through your council or for more information, read our articles about how much space you need for an outdoor fireplace and installing a fireplace near your boundary.
Please also reach out to the team at Trendz as they are likely to already have experience in working with your local council regarding outdoor fireplaces.
Small outdoor fireplace NZ
If you’re ready to choose a fireplace for your small outdoor space, check out our range of space-efficient fireplaces. With an effortless blend of beauty and function in a compact design, these options have it all:
- Mini Burton — Our Mini Burton is the smallest fireplace in our range, featuring contemporary lines and an optional corten steel surround.
- Douglas — The Douglas is traditional and timeless, featuring subtle angles easing into the chimney.
- Hudson — The Hudson features a wide chimney with stunning symmetry.
- Fire pits — Our fire pit provides warmth and cooking capabilities to gather around.
Are you looking for more small space inspiration and outdoor fireplace ideas? Download our Guide to Creating the Ultimate Outdoor Space full of inspiration, ideas and examples of homes all over New Zealand.
Or, if you’re ready to find the perfect fireplace for your small backyard, download our Outdoor Fireplace Brochure for all the fine details. Whether you like cosy and intimate or bold and elegant, from accessories to dimensions, we explore what you need to know so you can choose the perfect size, shape, and style.
Have a question? Contact us