Some of the best designs are those that seamlessly blend with their surroundings. This recent project—an outdoor living space featuring a custom stone fire pit and natural hardscaping—demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform a yard into a tranquil retreat.
The Vision
The homeowners wanted to create a warm and inviting space that celebrated the beauty of their wooded property while drawing some inspirations from the local state parks that were nearby. Their goals included incorporating natural materials, ensuring low-maintenance landscaping, and creating functional zones for gathering, relaxing, and admiring nature.
The Design Process
Drawing inspiration from the site’s natural charm, the design team opted for locally sourced stone to ensure the new features blended effortlessly into the existing landscape. The fire pit, a standout piece, was crafted from a massive stone slab with its center hollowed to house a custom iron log set with a gas-burning flame. Surrounding the pit, natural stone was used to create a flagstone patio with stone inlays for accents.
To create depth and structure, strategically placed boulders were used as seating, edging, and to help retain grades where needed. Low-maintenance beds filled with native plants and unique evergreens soften the hardscaping, while winding stone pathways invite exploration.
Key Features
- “Fire Rock”: The stone centerpiece, in place of a traditional fire pit, provides both warmth and a natural aesthetic. Its rugged design feels as though it’s been part of the landscape for decades.
- Flagstone Patios and Walkways: Durable and timeless, the patios offers ample space for seating while maintaining a rustic appeal.
- Upright Sandstone Beams: Upright sandstone beams add height and sculptural interest to the layout. These monolithic stones evoke a timeless quality reminiscent of ancient stone formations.
- Cedar Split Rail Fence: The perimeter of the drive on one side is lined with a split rail fence. This introduces a vertical element to the design which adds interest as well as provides a subtle gradient between the gathering area and the surrounding features. Cedar also compliments the naturalistic design and colors of the surrounding stones.
- Naturalistic Plant Layout: Thoughtful planting ties the project into the forest backdrop. Plantings were kept simple and an emphasis was placed on unique specimen type plants to add focal points.
- Landscape Lighting: Discreetly integrated landscape lighting transforms the space after sunset. Uplights accentuate the sandstone beams and highlight key plant materials, while pathway lighting guides guests safely along the stone walkways. Edison bulb style string lights are draped above the patio casting a warm glow over the seating area. The combination of lighting elements ensures both safety and ambiance.
The Result
This project achieved the perfect balance between function and natural beauty. Whether enjoying a quiet evening by the fire pit or hosting friends, the space fosters connection—to nature, to family, and to moments of relaxation. It’s a testament to the transformative power of design that respects and celebrates its surroundings.
Project Designer: Nate Anderson
Project Build: Rost, Inc. Landscape, Lighting, Irrigation Divisions
Project Maintenance: Rost, Inc. Maintenance Division
