Modern Fire Pit

Modern fire pits are incredibly popular. Here's how to achieve a similar look:

• Choose a rectangular, square, or L-shape design rather than the more traditional round fire pit.

• Use cast concrete or stacked concrete pavers to create a solid, smooth finish. For added visual interest, you can use a combination of both as seen at the Beitcher Residence.

• Fill the fire pit with colored glass in a dark grey or black. Colored glass is available by the pound through ASG Glass or Heritage Glass. Usually runs between $3 and $5 per pound.

• Burn natural gas or propane. Modern style fire pits are rarely wood burning; this has more of a rustic, country look.

• To make the fire pit stand out, incorporate a contrasting material, such as wood, around the fire pit.

Tip: If you want warmth, then be sure to avoid ethanol burning fire pits. They may be clean and vent-less but ethanol (of denatured alcohol) doesn't put of much heat.