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Column: Adding a spark to fire features

IO Sorrell 2

Home surrounds and budget influence the fire feature that best suits your outdoor living space. (Submitted photo)

Outdoor fire features are like well-planned granite kitchen counters, they are a destination for guests to gather around. And, it doesn’t matter if a fire is roaring or cooking taking place. They are fun magnets for gathering and entertaining.

Fortunately there are accommodating styles with moderating price points and we appreciate them all. Let your jazzed passion, home surrounds and budget influence the feature that best suits your outdoor living space. From the simple $100 fire bowls to formal outdoor fireplaces that generally start at $15,000 and quickly escalate with any customization.

Boulder and natural stone fire features are some of our favorites. They feel genuine, echoing nature and the highly textured surrounds of outside. The pictured fire feature resides in Carmel and was constructed with Chocolate natural stone with cut edges and consistent thickness. Capped with Tennessee Valley flagstone, its oversized dimension meets the ambitious homeowner demand for large gatherings with space around for sitting, smoking cigars and enjoying the golf course view. A definite “Carpe Diem” space.

To ensure your fire feature is safe, take the following steps:

• Never leave the fire unattended.

• Establish a child safety zone around the edge.

• Check for low hanging branched nearby and prune.

• Build fire features at least 10 feet from your home.

• Keep a fire extinguisher or hose convenient.

• Completely extinguish before leaving.

Let this fall season be one where we intentionally gather to appreciate the outdoors, family, neighbors and autumn’s brilliant display of colors. Schedule a cookout. Light a fire. Enjoy the outdoors like never before.

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