FIRE PIT IN THE GARDEN: From Tradition to Modern Design.

For Latvians, fire is more than just a source of warmth and light – it has long been a symbol of life, strength, purification, and unity. Whether in the midsummer bonfires of Jāņi, the winter solstice, Candlemas, or other seasonal traditions, fire rituals represent the return of light, protection against evil spirits, and the power of the family line. This ancient meaning remains alive today – a fire pit in the garden becomes a symbolic center for peace, togetherness, and the search for light in the dark evenings.

THE FUNCTION AND FORM OF A FIRE PIT

Today, fire pits in gardens are designed in various ways, tailored to the needs and preferences of the homeowners. A carefully planned fire pit area adds both functional and emotional value to the garden. When planning, attention should be given not only to the fire element itself and its design, but also to the surrounding garden space it creates. The more thoughtfully the placement and layout are considered, the more frequently and comfortably the space will be used.

FUNCTIONALITY OF THE GARDEN SPACE:

• A relaxation area with simple wooden benches or soft garden furniture – a place to spend time with children, friends, or family, whether chatting, playing games, or roasting sausages over the fire.

• A space centered around outdoor culinary experiences – perfect as an addition to a garden kitchen or Herb garden.

• A ritual and celebration space for honoring ancestral traditions or celebrating other festive occasions. In larger gardens, especially in rural areas, such spaces are often placed at a distance and aligned with the sun’s path, following ancient Latvian traditions.

• A practical solution in a natural landscape – serving as a source of warmth and light during the darker months of the year, with less emphasis on aesthetics.

• An aesthetic accent – the fire element can also function as a work of art, a striking component at the end of a garden axis or as a central feature in the garden composition.

Depending on the architecture of the building, the style of the garden, frequency of use, and intended function, it is possible to select the most suitable fire feature. It can be round or square, a rusted metal bowl or fire dish that can be relocated after use, or a permanently built element made of concrete or stone – such as a garden fireplace, a fire table, or other types of fire installations.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SURFACE MATERIAL

The choice of surface around the fire pit is also of great importance. When creating it for permanent use, it is recommended to lay a solid surface around it, such as loose aggregate, stone slab paving, or concrete pavers. Such surfaces will be both fire-safe and easy to maintain on a daily basis, while also adding an extra atmosphere to this garden feature.

SAFETY

Equally important is maintaining safe distances from flammable materials – such as wooden structures, hedges, buildings, or canopies. This is especially crucial for fire pits with an open wood-burning flame. Open fire always requires respect and caution. Even a light breeze can change the direction of the flames, making the location of the fire feature strategically important – ideally, it should be set slightly apart, while still allowing convenient access and visibility from the terrace or house windows.

A properly planned and safely installed fire pit area will allow you to enjoy the presence of live fire with peace of mind. Having a nearby water source, such as a garden tap, adds an extra layer of safety.

LIVE FIRE OR ALTERNATIVES?

Nothing can truly replace the experience of real fire – the crackling sound of burning wood, the warmth radiating from the flames, and the smoky aroma that gives the evening a timeless, natural atmosphere. However, live fire isn’t always practical or permitted – especially in urban environments, on terraces, or in areas where maintaining proper distance and meeting safety requirements is not feasible.

In such cases, fire features using bioethanol or gas offer excellent alternatives. These options provide a visually similar effect to natural fire while being safer, easy to use, and adaptable to smaller outdoor spaces, where atmosphere and comfort are the main priorities.

FIRE – WARMTH IN SPACE AND WITHIN PEOPLE

Fire is more than just a functional element. It draws people in, soothes, and unites. A fire pit in the garden becomes a special space – a place where time slows down, conversations grow deeper, and silence sometimes speaks louder than words. Whether it’s crackling firewood or a modern fire feature, fire always brings its own atmosphere – warmth both around us and within us.