A warm, welcoming vibe

Bring your outdoor spaces to life your way with new-look designer heating and lighting

- CARROL BAKER

HEATING OPTIONS

When choosing an outdoor heat source to keep you and your guests snug, there are some practical ways to narrow down your selection. The size and shape of the space and how it’s protected all factor into your decision. Then there’s the fuel source. Gas or electric? Wood, charcoal or bioethanol? Each has different benefits. Another consideration of course is budget — if yours is on the generous side, there are virtually unlimited options available to you.

FIREPITS AND FIRE TABLES

Outdoor entertaining spaces come in all shapes and sizes. If yours is small, a firepit is a great solution. They are relatively new to the marketplace and are one of the most popular contemporary heating sources. As an added bonus, a firepit is portable — move it around as needed. Add cosy seating for a pop-up party feel or to create an intimate space. Firepits are ground height or table height, so they won’t obscure any garden views. Wood-burning firepits also offer another way to cook simple foods with a grill plate on top. Your guests will love it. They are portable so you can also store away in the warmer months if you choose, but the ambience of a firepit can be enjoyed all year round.

Bioethanol freestanding fire tables or firepits are environmentally friendly, cost-efficient options to provide warm ambient heating. They are very versatile and can be used both indoors and out.

These are one of the fastest-growing additions to many outdoor spaces because of their good looks and versatility. They are available in an abundance of shapes and sizes.

A BESPOKE FIREPLACE