Gathering around a fire pit to share stories and evoke memories is my idea of time well spent. Do you want to enjoy such moments with your loved ones? Then you have to set up a cozy fire pit seating area in your backyard.
Not sure how to do it? Stay tuned – I am about to present 21 amazing fire pit seating ideas. Just remember that any fire close to your home is a potential risk and ensure you follow all the safety measures issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), especially if you reside in an area susceptible to brush fires.
Create A Timeless Look Around Your Fire Pit With Classic Adirondack Chairs
I am a great fan of classic outdoor furniture such as Adirondack chairs. They are not only great-looking and comfy but also durable and stable. Add beautiful scenery and a stone fire pit, such as the one in this picture, and you have yourself a recipe for total relaxation!
The unique design and shape of Adirondack chairs allow you to sit in a reclined position taking the pressure off of your spine. According to the experts from the Lordship Chairs, a reputable UK Adirondack chairs manufacturer, Adirondack chairs are of immense benefit to a bad back and to blood circulation.
Old Adirondack Chairs For Rustic Charm In Your Backyard
If you already own old Adirondack chairs you have inherited from your grandparents, there is no need to refurbish them. Use them as they are to create a rustic seating area around a fire pit built from old bricks.
A string of flickering lights is a simple yet effective way to shed some light and create a border between the seating area and the surrounding greenery.
I particularly like that ground beneath the firepit is covered with gravel. According to the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, gravel is the ideal “hardscape” material for a variety of landscapes. It’s cheaper and easier to set up than concrete or pavers, too.
Quick & Easy DIY Fire Pit Seating Area
Do you have some old bricks? If yes, you’re in luck – you have all you need to build a fire pit and border a seating area around it. Once you are done, simply add a few comfy chairs.
Use gravel to cover the area around the fire pit for safety. The guide issued by my city (Raleigh, NC) warns you should never place your fire pit directly on grass or leaves, but rather on a fireproof surface, such as:
Outfit Your Fire Pit With A Set Of Wicker Chairs
If your backyard is covered in concrete tiles and lacks a bit of warmth, you can add a wood-coated fire pit and a set of wicker chairs to create an inviting, cozy atmosphere! Wicker chairs are comfy and aesthetically pleasing. Their woven design adds a touch of hominess to every space.
As I learned from the professionals at Artex Nam An, an established Vietnamese wholesaler of eco-friendly handcrafted home decor, wicker is a timeless weaving technique. Outdoor (synthetic) wicker is even better, as it’s immune to moisture, UV damage, and external elements so you do not have to worry about it fading, staining, or cracking. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
Hug Yourself In Wicker Swivel Chairs
I fell in love with these round wicker chairs! Imagine sitting down in one of these plush seats and having the oversized cushions wrap you in comfort. It must feel like getting a big hug.
The only downside to these chairs is their size. If you want to be able to regularly host larger groups, the bulky swivel chairs are not exactly the ideal choice. This article I read in the New York Times suggests that bench-style seating is the better solution when you need to accommodate six to eight people.
Mix It All Up
Wood palettes on the wall, concrete tiles on the ground, a natural stone fire pit, an old bench, and bright turquoise patio chairs? Doesn’t sound like an ideal combo, but it can be! Just look at this picture – doesn’t this outdoor fire pit seating look great? I like it.
Mixing things up and customizing your outdoor space with unique DIY ideas can help create an original, super-fun space. The experts from the Association Of Professional Landscape Designers agree that your landscape design can integrate a wide variety of elements to achieve functional and beautiful outdoor space.
Outdoor Sling Chairs & A Modern Fire Pit Table
If you are more into wine-sipping than roasting marshmallows, you might appreciate this contemporary-style outdoor fire pit seating area. Outdoor sling chairs are one of the best outdoor fire pit seating ideas for people who want to relax after a long day at work. Their ergonomic design guarantees premium comfort and support.
Even though I am more inclined toward a brighter color scheme, I cannot help but admire the raw elegance of this neutral-colored outdoor decor. The only thing I would add is a bit more foliage.
A study conducted by the Center for Design & Health, School of Architecture, at the University of Virginia, suggests plants can impact your emotional, psychological, and physiological well-being. So, why not make the best of it?
Rock Yourself To Sleep By The Warmth Of Your Fire Pit
With the right choice of seating, relaxing in a chair next to your fire pit can feel like a mini vacation. You already know I am a big fan of Adirondack chairs, but I recently discovered there is something even better – rocking Adirondack chairs! I don’t think anything can top that.
According to the experts from LPA Medical, a reputable medical chair manufacturer, rocking chairs offer many therapeutical benefits, such as:
- improving your balance and blood circulation
- reducing muscle pain
- battling anxiety and depression
Modern Twist On Rocking Chairs
If you like the idea of rocking yourself to sleep next to your fire pit but you prefer modern outdoor furniture, you’ll like this outdoor seating and fire pit design. Thanks to their soft cushioning, these dark wood chairs are as comfy as traditional Adirondack chairs
The modern-looking gas fire pit gives this patio space a dose of elegance. The outdoor rug has the same effect, but I am not sure how safe it is to have it so close to an open flame. According to the inventors of the DeckProtect pad, a rug can absorb and trap heat, making it the worst possible option for the space underneath your fire pit.
Foldable Chairs For A Versatile Outdoor Space
It is certainly pleasant to sit back and relax by the fire, but it is not the only option. How about having a dancing party or letting your kids have some extra playing space? If you want the option to mix things up at your gatherings, you should consider getting foldable chairs.
But even though foldable chairs are definitely practical, I don’t know if they are the best option for people with mobility issues. Michaeleen Doucleff, Ph.D., a correspondent for NPR’s Science Desk, warns that most chairs are either too soft or too deep. She offers two solutions:
- sitting on the edge of the chair
- using your jacket or a blanket to build a perch
A Fire Pit Seating Area Next To Your Pool
When you have limited space next to your pool, the combination of foldable outdoor furniture and a compact fire pit design is the best choice you can make. In this way, you can use this space to sunbathe during the day and enjoy a friendly gathering by the fire pit at night.
Besides, camp chairs are affordable and take up minimal space. If you are worried they can’t hold your weight, don’t be. Nicole Segnini from the Wilderness Organization states there are numerous inclusive brands and outdoor gear and furniture manufacturers, making their weight limits a problem of the past. I applaud this!
Big Furniture For A Big Outdoor Space
If you are lucky enough to have a vast backyard patio overlooking glistening water, you shouldn’t hold back when it comes to your choice of fire pit seating ideas. Go big! I know I would. Choose large and comfortable sectional sofas that offer ample seating for all your guests. The fire pit should be as big as possible too.
When it comes to the choice of outdoor rugs, Brent Williamson from S&S Fire Pits company advises choosing a waterproof material that can withstand the elements without developing mold and mildew. If you want your rug directly underneath the fire pit, make sure it’s fireproof too!
Bulky Wooden Outdoor Patio Set
Having plenty of space to spare gives you an opportunity to choose grandiose outdoor furniture such as the wooden set in this picture. As far as I’m concerned, the modern fire pit table in this picture is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. Cozy seating sofa and armchairs sure beat my tree trumps too.
On the downside, this furniture is certainly not easy to move around, meaning you’ll have to maintain it year-round. According to Martha Stewart online magazine, patio furniture should be deep cleaned at least twice a year. You should also seal any wood to protect it from ultraviolet rays, dirt, and moisture.
Tree Stump Galore
After bashing my tree stumps, I feel obliged to say they are not that bad at all. Incorporating tree stumps can be one of the best fire pit seating ideas if you have kids or you want to give your outdoor area a unique natural touch.
If you are building your tree stump seating, ensure there are no splinters or sharp edges. Also, make sure the stumps are big and stable so that all your guests can sit on them without discomfort. As I read in Wood Magazine, a comfortable seating height for adults is 16 -18 inches from the ground.
Here is a great video I have found that shows how you can make colorful tree stumps for your fire pit area:
Tree Stumps & Wooden Bench Seating
Backyard seating can be a bit tricky when you have a lot of kids around. That is why I think combining different seating styles is a great idea for big families. Parents can sit back and relax in their comfy patio chairs, while children can spend time sitting on tree stumps or a built-in bench near the fire pit.
Make sure there is enough room between the fire pit and the seats. In the words of John Kammeyer, a fire chief from the Central County Fire Department serving the town of Hillsborough and the cities of Burlingame and Millbrae, you should take the following safety measures:
- Secure at least 10 feet of clearance from your fire pit
- Keep branches and foliage away from open flame
- Always have a supply of water at hand
- Check the weather forecast for high winds before lighting up your fire pit
Circular Bench Seating
Wooden benches for circular seating are a great alternative to patio chairs. Building them around your fire pit creates comfortable, stylish seating, while their curved shape maximizes the use of space.
I think wooden benches always add warmth and character to an outdoor area. They also create an inviting and cozy atmosphere ideal for entertaining your guests. Experts from Grup Fábregas, an urban furniture manufacturer from Spain, agree that wooden benches have great aesthetic and practical value since they are durable, weatherproof, and never become too cold or hot to sit on.
Circular Fire Pit Seating Ideas For Your Pool Area
Here is another great fire pit seating idea that utilizes the ultra-practical circular bench. As you can see, such a bench provides more room than most other seating arrangements. However, this is not its biggest advantage. Circular seating is also a godsend for easy-flowing conversations or playing some tried-and-true circle games proposed by the Student Conservation Association.
Being next to the pool with so many friends is a big plus too. Your fire pit gathering can turn into a pool party whenever you feel like it.
A Curved Stone Bench
A backyard as beautiful as this one calls for an equally beautiful fire pit seating area. It is an ideal opportunity to build another curved bench. Wood is not your only option, though. You can construct a curved bench from stone or concrete too.
I vote for natural stone. According to experienced professionals from the Hamparan Stone company, there are many advantages to using natural stone for your outdoor furniture, such as:
- Beauty and timeless elegance
- A choice of different colors, patterns, and textures
- Versatility
- Durability and resistance to scratches, chips, fire, mold, and bacteria
- Eco-friendliness
A Medieval-Style Fire Pit Area
If you are a Game Of Thrones fan, you’ll think this design is one of the best fire pit seating ideas you have ever seen! All you need is a bunch of natural stone blocks and you can become the king of your castle. The round bench seating area will allow you and your faithful retinue to gather around and discuss important matters such as whether or not the finale of this medieval fantasy television series met your expectations.
Besides, having a permanent natural stone fire pit can be highly beneficial. In the word of professionals from the World of Stones, a premier supplier of quality stones, it is a quicker and cheaper option than building an outdoor fireplace. I would just add that nothing beats the raw beauty bestowed upon the natural stones.
DIY Wooden Bench & Natural Stone Fire Pit Combo
DIY projects are the best way to create an affordable seating area around your fire pit. Your design will be one of a kind too, giving your fire pit area a unique vibe.
Handmade wooden benches are an excellent choice for outdoor seating near the fire pit. If you lack inspiration, you can always browse through an array of DIY tutorials or design ideas available online, such as the ones offered by the Construct101 website.
A Perfect DIY Fire Pit Seating Area
I have saved the best for last. This is one of the most magical fire pit seating ideas ever! As we already established, DIY benches are a great way to add fire pit seating without breaking the bank. However, even though this particular circular bench might not cost you a fortune, it does require quite a bit of material, tools, and plenty of know-how.
One thing is certain, though, if you manage to re-create this fire pit seating in your yard, you’ll be the envy of the entire neighborhood.
FAQs
How big of a seating area do you need for a fire pit?
How big of a seating area you need for a fire pit depends on the size of your fire pit and your outdoor space. It also depends on how many people you want to be able to entertain.
What kind of chairs do you put around a firepit?
You can put all sorts of chairs around a fire pit. The only thing that limits your creativity is your budget and the size of your fire pit area.
How tall should a chair be for a fire pit?
The chair for a fire pit should be tall enough to provide comfortable seating to an adult. According to Wood Magazine, a comfortable seating height for grown-ups is 16 -18 inches from the ground.
How many chairs should be around a fire pit?
How many chairs should be around a fire pit is defined by your personal needs. You should provide ample seating to accommodate all the people you invite to your outdoor gatherings.
How far should seating be around fire pit?
Seating around fire pit should be far enough not to pose a fire hazard. According to professionals from the JS Brick Corporation, a brick and pavers installation, supply, and maintenance service company, placing chairs four feet away from the fire pit allows room for walking around it.
Time To Light The Fire
Creating a welcoming atmosphere around your fire pit calls for the proper seating arrangement. Whether you opt for classic Adirondack chairs or a comfy wicker sofa, you must ensure safety is not compromised in any way.I hope my fire pit seating ideas have helped you make up your mind and you’re already enjoying your leisure time by the flames of a fire pit. If you need further assistance, leave a comment and I’ll get back to you.
