DIY: Outdoor Fireplace Plans

Including contrasting materials can add detail to the project.

Outdoor fireplaces are ideal places to entertain family and friends. You can construct an outdoor fireplace as a do-it-yourself project. In order to complete the project, you will need plans. An outdoor fireplace is built from bricks. The bricks are stacked into a three-sided rectangular structure. If you plan to cook over the fireplace, you can add a cast iron grate over the top of the rectangular structure. The plan can be modified to create different sizes and shapes for your fireplace.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Measure the area where you would like to construct the fireplace with a tape measure. Determine what dimensions would be appropriate based on the size of the space and your needs.

2. Select a shape for the fireplace. A common outdoor fireplace is rectangular, however you could make a plan for a round, oval or square fireplace.

3. Determine what materials you would like to use based on the style of your home's exterior. A traditional red brick would be well suited for traditional homes, while a rustic country home may be best complemented by bricks with an aged appearance. Bricks come in a variety of earth tones to suit any home's style.

4. Decide whether you want to use the fireplace as an outdoor cooking area. Select a wrought or cast iron cooking grate based on the size and shape of your fireplace. The grate can be placed inside the opening of the fireplace or you can build a separate cooking area into your plan on one side of the fireplace opening. Iron cooking grates come in many sizes and shapes, including square, rectangular and circular, so you will be able to find one to meet your fireplace plans.

5. Draw a plan on paper reflecting your decisions in Steps 1 through 3. Write down the measurements and style of brick in addition to any additional features that you want to include.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring the plan to the store when you pick up your building materials so that you will have a reference when looking everything over.

References

• Home Addition Plus: Outdoor Fireplace Plans
• Organic Gardening Tips: Constructing Your Own Outdoor Fireplace Made Easy