A backyard should be more than just an outdoor space—it should be a destination. In Narragansett, RI, where ocean breezes and crisp evening air set the perfect scene, a fire pit and retaining wall can create an inviting, functional retreat that extends your home’s living space.
If you’ve been thinking about elevating your landscape with expert craftsmanship and high-end materials, this is where to start. A thoughtfully designed fire pit and retaining wall in Narragansett, RI, not only enhances the beauty of your property but also adds structure, warmth, and year-round usability to your outdoor environment.
Related: Warm Up and Wind Down: Designing Your Ideal Fire Pit in Portsmouth, RI
Where Is the Best Place to Put a Fire Pit in Your Backyard?
The placement of a fire pit is just as important as the fire feature itself. It should feel intentional, seamlessly fitting into the natural flow of your outdoor space rather than feeling like an afterthought. A well-positioned fire pit enhances the ambiance, encourages gathering, and maximizes comfort—all while complementing the existing landscape design.
In Narragansett, the coastal climate and terrain play a key role in determining where your fire pit will thrive. With expert planning and high-end craftsmanship, we ensure your fire pit is installed in the ideal location for year-round enjoyment.
Accounting for Narragansett’s Coastal Winds
Even on the calmest nights, coastal breezes can pick up, making wind protection an essential factor when placing a fire pit. A poorly positioned fire pit can become uncomfortable to sit around if the wind is constantly blowing smoke into the seating area.
By thoughtfully integrating a fire pit near an existing retaining wall or constructing a custom-designed stone wall, we can help block gusts and provide a cozier, more enjoyable experience. Walls also act as heat reflectors, enhancing the warmth of the fire and making the space even more inviting on cool Rhode Island evenings.
Creating a Natural Flow to Gathering Spaces
A fire pit should feel like a natural gathering point, not a detached feature that feels separate from the rest of the landscape. We consider the movement and function of your backyard to ensure it integrates effortlessly into the design.
Patios – If you already have a paver patio, a fire pit can be built into the existing design for a polished, cohesive look.
Outdoor Kitchens – Many of our clients want their fire pit positioned near an outdoor kitchen, allowing guests to relax by the fire while food is being prepared.
Pergolas – If a pergola is part of the plan, a nearby fire pit enhances the ambiance, creating a luxurious lounge area.
We carefully design outdoor spaces so the fire pit feels like an extension of your home’s architecture, blending seamlessly with surrounding features for both function and aesthetics.
Maximizing Views and Ambiance
One of the biggest advantages of living in Narragansett is the potential for stunning backyard views. Whether your property overlooks the ocean, features rolling greenery, or is framed by beautiful coastal plantings, we ensure your fire pit is positioned to enhance—not obstruct—these views.
For homeowners with larger properties, a fire pit can be designed as a central focal point in the landscape, drawing attention to the most picturesque areas of the yard. Strategic lighting and seating placement further enhance the atmosphere, making the space feel curated and luxurious.
On smaller properties, a fire pit can be tucked into a cozy seating nook, offering a private retreat without overwhelming the yard’s layout. By incorporating thoughtful design elements, we make even the most compact spaces feel intentional and well-balanced.
How Far Should a Seating Wall Be From a Fire Pit?
The right balance of comfort and safety is essential when designing a seating wall around a fire pit. A well-placed seating wall not only provides a built-in gathering space but also enhances the aesthetics and functionality of your outdoor area. Every fire pit layout should allow for easy movement, a cozy atmosphere, and uninterrupted views, making the seating wall an integral part of the overall landscape design.
Finding the Right Distance
Spacing is key. A seating wall should be positioned 3 to 4 feet from the fire pit. This distance creates an inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy the warmth without feeling uncomfortably close to the flames. It also allows for versatile seating options, ensuring there’s room for additional chairs if needed.
Beyond comfort, maintaining this spacing prevents the wall from trapping excessive heat. With wood-burning fire pits, airflow is necessary to keep smoke from lingering in the seating area, while gas fire pits benefit from proper ventilation to maintain an even flame.
Determining the Ideal Height
A seating wall should be the perfect height for guests to relax comfortably without needing additional cushions or chairs. The recommended height is 18 to 24 inches, which mimics the standard height of a bench. This provides the right level of support while keeping guests at a safe distance from the fire.
For added comfort, some homeowners choose to incorporate a wider ledge at the top of the wall, allowing for more space to rest drinks or lean back comfortably.
Selecting the Best Materials for Narragansett’s Climate
Seating walls should be built to withstand Rhode Island’s coastal weather, which includes salty air, fluctuating temperatures, and periods of heavy moisture. The right materials ensure longevity and maintain the integrity of the design over time.
Natural stone – A timeless option that complements high-end landscapes while providing excellent durability.
Bluestone – Known for its rich color and ability to withstand Narragansett’s seasonal temperature shifts.
High-quality manufactured stone – An elegant alternative that mimics the look of natural stone with added customization options.
For a polished, cohesive look, we ensure that the seating wall integrates seamlessly with surrounding elements, whether it’s a paver patio, outdoor kitchen, or pergola.
A thoughtfully designed seating wall transforms a fire pit area into an exceptional outdoor retreat. With the right placement, materials, and craftsmanship, it becomes an inviting space where family and friends can gather for years to come.
Related: Enhance Your Landscape's Beauty for Fall Photoshoots With Mulching and Plantings in Westerly, RI
How to Landscape Around a Retaining Wall?
A retaining wall is more than just a structural solution for sloped properties—it’s an opportunity to enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. With the right landscaping elements, it can become a stunning focal point that blends seamlessly into the surrounding environment while adding depth, texture, and year-round visual interest.
In Narragansett, where coastal influences shape the landscape, strategic plant selections and design elements can transform a retaining wall into an elegant feature that enhances your backyard’s overall aesthetic.
Choosing Coastal-Friendly Plants
Plantings around a retaining wall should be both beautiful and well-suited to Rhode Island’s coastal climate. The salty air and occasional strong winds require hardy, salt-tolerant plants that can thrive year after year.
Hydrangeas – A classic choice for New England landscapes, hydrangeas add vibrant blooms and thrive in Narragansett’s coastal conditions.
Ornamental grasses – Varieties like switchgrass and fountain grass provide soft movement in the breeze and add year-round texture.
Evergreen shrubs – Boxwood, juniper, and holly create structure and maintain greenery through all seasons.
By layering different plant heights and textures, we can create a visually dynamic landscape that enhances the retaining wall’s design rather than making it feel like a purely functional element.
Incorporating Layered Planting for Depth and Interest
The best landscapes feel natural and well-integrated, rather than overly structured or rigid. We achieve this by using a layering approach:
Low-growing ground cover – Creeping thyme, sedum, or ivy soften the edges of the retaining wall and help with erosion control.
Mid-height shrubs – These serve as the middle layer, offering volume and seasonal color while blending the ground cover with taller elements.
Taller ornamental trees – Small trees like dogwood, redbud, or Japanese maple can add vertical interest and create a stunning contrast against the stone or masonry of the wall.
Strategic plant placement not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves the stability of the soil around the retaining wall, preventing erosion and ensuring longevity.
Adding Integrated Lighting for Ambiance and Safety
Outdoor lighting built into or around a retaining wall enhances both safety and nighttime aesthetics. Whether highlighting the texture of natural stone, bluestone, or manufactured stone, or providing subtle illumination for pathways, low-voltage landscape lighting is an essential finishing touch.
Recessed wall lights – Built directly into the retaining wall for a soft, ambient glow.
Pathway lighting – Placed at the base of the wall to guide movement and create visual interest.
Uplighting – Positioned behind taller plantings to highlight trees or architectural elements.
By incorporating lighting, we ensure that your retaining wall is not just a daytime feature but a beautifully illuminated backdrop for evening gatherings.
A thoughtfully landscaped retaining wall becomes a signature element of your backyard, seamlessly blending structure with nature. With expert design, high-end materials, and carefully selected plantings, it evolves from a functional necessity into a sophisticated, visually striking part of your outdoor space.
Can You Put a Fire Pit on a Paver Patio?
A paver patio and fire pit are a perfect pairing, combining elegance, durability, and practicality. When designed and installed by professionals, this combination creates a seamless outdoor gathering space that enhances both function and aesthetics. However, not all pavers or fire pits are suited for direct integration—careful material selection and expert craftsmanship ensure long-lasting performance and safety.
Choosing Heat-Resistant Pavers
Not all pavers can withstand the high temperatures generated by a fire pit. Selecting heat-resistant materials is crucial to prevent cracking, discoloration, or structural damage over time.
Porcelain pavers – These high-end pavers are not only heat-resistant but also exceptionally durable and stylish, making them a great choice for modern outdoor spaces.
Dense concrete pavers – High-quality concrete pavers designed for heavy use can handle the heat of a fire pit when properly installed.
Natural stone options – Granite, bluestone, and thermal limestone offer timeless beauty and excellent heat resistance, making them ideal for both paver patios and fire pit surrounds.
We ensure that the chosen pavers align with the overall landscape design and blend effortlessly with other features, whether it’s an outdoor kitchen, seating wall, or pergola.
Gas vs. Wood-Burning Fire Pits on a Paver Patio
Both gas and wood-burning fire pits can be installed on a paver patio, but each requires different considerations:
Gas fire pits are an excellent option for paver patios because they produce controlled heat and eliminate concerns about stray embers or direct flame contact with the pavers. They integrate seamlessly into the hardscape, offering a sleek, low-maintenance solution.
Wood-burning fire pits generate intense heat, which can damage certain paver materials over time. To prevent heat transfer, we install a fire-rated barrier or a dedicated fire insert, ensuring the fire pit remains safe and structurally sound.
Beyond functionality, the style of fire pit—whether built-in, sunken, or freestanding—is tailored to fit the patio’s layout, enhancing the overall look and usability of the space.
Ensuring Proper Drainage for Longevity
With Rhode Island’s coastal climate, moisture control is a key factor in designing a paver patio with a fire pit. Narragansett experiences varying moisture levels throughout the year, so proper drainage prevents standing water, shifting pavers, and long-term damage.
Permeable paver systems allow rainwater to filter through, reducing runoff and preventing pooling around the fire pit.
Graded installation ensures water drains away from the seating area, preserving the integrity of the patio.
Specialized jointing materials help lock pavers in place while allowing for necessary expansion and contraction with seasonal changes.
A well-built paver patio with a fire pit is a luxurious, long-lasting investment in your outdoor living space. By combining premium materials with expert installation, we create a functional, elegant, and durable patio that enhances the way you entertain, relax, and enjoy the beauty of your home.
Related: Custom Fire Pit Designs for Memorable Nights in Your Newport or South Kingstown, RI Yard
Can You Have a Fire Pit in a Pergola?
A pergola with a fire pit is the perfect blend of architectural beauty and functional comfort. It transforms an outdoor space into a luxurious retreat, offering shade during the day and warmth at night. However, combining these two elements requires thoughtful planning to ensure safety, longevity, and the best possible experience. With expert design and proper material selection, a fire pit under a pergola can become the highlight of your backyard.
Ensuring the Right Pergola Height for Safety
One of the most critical factors when placing a fire pit under a pergola is height clearance. The structure must be tall enough to allow heat and smoke to disperse safely without causing damage.
A pergola should have at least 8 to 10 feet of clearance above the fire pit to prevent excessive heat buildup.
If the structure is on the lower end of the height range, installing a heat deflector or non-combustible fireproof barrier can provide added protection.
The size and shape of the pergola should complement the fire pit, ensuring an open, breathable space that remains visually appealing.
By designing the pergola with the right proportions, we create a space that feels open and inviting while ensuring long-term durability.
Prioritizing Ventilation for Comfort and Safety
Proper ventilation is essential, even when using a gas fire pit, which produces less smoke than a wood-burning option. A well-designed pergola allows heat to escape while maintaining a comfortable, sheltered atmosphere.
Open-sided pergolas offer the best airflow, allowing warm air to rise and dissipate naturally.
Louvered or vented roof designs give homeowners the flexibility to adjust ventilation, making it easy to control airflow depending on the weather.
Gas fire pits are highly recommended for pergolas, as they eliminate concerns about rising embers and excessive smoke accumulation.
We design each space to enhance the outdoor experience, ensuring that the fire pit and pergola work together harmoniously rather than competing for airflow.
Selecting Fire-Resistant Pergola Materials
Since a fire pit generates significant heat, choosing the right pergola materials is crucial for both safety and long-term performance.
Steel and aluminum pergolas provide excellent fire resistance and durability, making them ideal for contemporary outdoor spaces.
Specially treated wood options, such as fire-retardant cedar or pressure-treated pine, offer a natural aesthetic while withstanding heat exposure.
Stone or masonry columns add architectural detail and increase the structure’s fire resistance, blending seamlessly with surrounding hardscape elements.
High-quality, heat-resistant materials, help ensure that your pergola remains a stunning and functional part of your outdoor space for years to come.
