Erin enjoys attending various Home and Garden shows when she isn't spending time writing. She loves finding new ideas and inspiration to bring to her own outdoor spaces and share with you!
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Modern elegance, ambiance, and warmth. Those are just a few reasons why I love a contemporary fire pit. But it’s not just about elevating aesthetics. In my experience, a well-made fire pit is perfect for entertaining, making memories, and reminding yourself to enjoy life a bit more. In the wake of a few trying years, I think now, more than ever, adding a modern fire pit may be one of the best ideas for updating your home.
From tabletop fire pits for cramped spaces to large fire pits perfect for roasting marshmallows, today I’m sharing my favorite modern fire pit designs. My goal is to help you find the perfect fit for your home- with fire pits that are built to last. Modern features like electric ignition, adjustable flames, and wind guards will get you excited about the outdoors again.
Read on for my favorite ideas, my selection criteria, and plenty of inspiration.
Bottom Line Up Front Summary
Modern fire pits exude warmth, ambiance, and beauty. Fire pits are no longer one size fits all, but impressive with their updated features, easy operation, and improved safety standards. My favorite modern fire pit ideas reflect quality materials and hardware, unique features, signature designs, and exude warmth to keep you comfortable. At its best, a modern fire pit extends your outdoor space and encourages you to spend more time outdoors- something we could all use more of.
If I were to recommend just one modern fire pit idea for your backyard, it would be the Goodwin Fire Pit Table. First of all, a fire pit table is a versatile and modern interpretation of a fire pit- and this one comes in a small and larger sizes. The square shape features contemporary clean lines, and the weather-resistant construction means that you don’t have to worry about leaving it out in the rain. It easily converts into a coffee or side table, and the electric ignition pairs with an adjustable flame. With an impressive heat output of up to 50,000 BTU and CSA certification, it’s one of the best deals out there.
My Top Picks
- Bond Manufacturing Stone Fire Pit: Best Fire Pit Bowl
- Terra Flame Wave Fire Pit Bowl: Best Mini Fire Pit
- JHY Design Tabletop Fire Pit: Best Tabletop Fire Pit
- Goodwin Fire Pit Table: Best Small Convertible Fire Pit Table
- Polywood Square Fire Pit Table: Best Fire Pit Table Made in the USA
- Elementi Granville Outdoor Table: Best Natural Gas Fire Pit Table
- Fireside Trailblazer Fire Pit & Grill: Best Portable Fire Pit Grill
- Outdoor GreatRoom Company: Best Premium Fire Pit Table
My Selection Criteria
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how I selected each modern fire pit idea. While I was excited to showcase a range of styles, I wanted to make sure each design was one I would buy. That means that I considered safety, quality, and features.
Defining “Modern”
My first challenge was to define a modern-style fire pit. For me, that meant two things: style and mode of operation. For styles, I wanted to include several that fall under the broader modern umbrella. As such, I’m including fire pits that would either reflect or complement: minimalism, contemporary, industrial, modern farmhouse, and mid-century modern styles. This also informed my decisions for materials (which I will also explain).
Fuel Source
I wanted to see modern features, but I also opted for propane and natural gas fire pits. I see wood-burning fire pits are more traditional and classic. On top of that, both propane gas and natural gas fire pits are more fuel-efficient, easier to control, and tend to come with more contemporary features, such as electric ignition. For fire pits bowls and tabletop fire pits, I also considered gel fuel. I did make an exception for a fire pit grill- where a wood-burning pit provides the best taste.
Representing Different Types of Fire Pits
I also wanted to make sure I included fire pits for different purposes. That meant representing a range of styles not only for aesthetic purposes but also for fitting into the different backyard and patio spaces. Here’s a quick look at the styles I chose and why:
| Type of Modern Fire Pit | What I Chose It For |
| Fire Pit Bowls | Decorative Use/ Ambiance |
| Fire Pit Tables | Decorative and for small spaces |
| Tabletop Fire Pits | All-in-one entertaining and upgraded features |
| Fire Pit Grills | Preparing meats/ vegetarian proteins and entertaining |
| Rectangular/ Round Fire Pits | Large backyards and gardens – square and rectangular large fire pits tend to feel a bit more modern, with clean and streamlined edges |
Choosing High-Quality Materials & Construction
For materials, I wanted two things: weather resistance with durability, and something modern. I selected fire pits with the following materials: stainless steel, powder-coated steel alloy, concrete, Polywood, and high-tempered glass. The only downside to these is concrete- which does need to be filled sometimes due to naturally occurring cracks (this usually happens over a long period. Is gradual, and is cheap to fix). Smooth stone also made my list.
Finding Unique Features
Next, I wanted to find modern features that complete a contemporary fire pit design. Those features include safety standards, easy operation, and even some perks for entertaining:
- CSA, ETL Approval or Certification
- Automatic Shut Off
- Electric Ignition
- Wheels/ Folding Designs for Easy Transport
- Concealed/ Easy Access Door
- Glass Wind and Heat Guards
- Adjustable Flame
- Side Trays/ Tables
- Smokeless/ Ventless/ Low Smoke
- Customizable And/ Or Unique Styles
Where I Shopped
I was also pretty selective about where I looked- but not so much that I limited myself to some incredible fire pit designs. My rules were simple. I checked to see that the company has a fair reputation for shipping, returns, and general quality.
For individual fire pits, I considered detailed descriptions, warranties, customer reviews, and high-quality pictures. I shopped on larger sites for great prices- Amazon, Wayfair, Target- as well as home improvement stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards) and reputable specialty stores, such as Polywood, Fire Pits Direct, and more.
Upgrade Your Backyard with These Modern Fire Pits!
Here are some of my favorite ideas for modern fire pits for your backyard. Whether you have limited space and need a small fire pit bowl or you want a large fire pit for a contemporary addition, I have you covered. These modern fire pit designs are practical, and come in a range of dimensions and price points to get you inspired!
Bond Manufacturing Stone Fire Pit
If you want a subtle but warm addition to your patio, this fire pit bowl is a solid choice. I love the round, love profile stone for a contemporary but warm look. This fire pit bowl would look at home with contemporary, modern farmhouse, and modern with classic touches.
Unlike many fire pit bowls, it’s powered with propane and includes an adjustable flame. That means improved energy efficiency, and the ability to adapt to different weather conditions. The stone exterior is accented with a stainless steel burner: something I love for easy clean-up and a sleek touch. With appealing lava rocks and an impressive BTU output of 50,000, this fire pit bowl provides both ambiance and warmth for those chilly nights. Buy Here.
Terraflame Wave Fire Pit Bowl
If you love the look of a fire pit bowl but want something small and portable, this beautiful modern design from Pottery Barn is one of my favorites. Touches of warmth and stylish contemporary flare exude from the sculpted concrete bowl. I love that it’s smokeless and safe to use not only outdoors but also within a screened-in patio or porch.
The weather-resistant acid wash finish gives me slightly industrial-meets-boho vibes. It’s a good replacement for a candle, with convenient gel fuel canisters, and plush polished beach pebbles. So if you aren’t ready to commit to a full fire pit, this is a beautiful modern design you can use just about anywhere. Buy Here.
Check out our guide on the best portable fire pits here!
JHY Design Tabletop Fire Pit
I love tabletop fire pits for small spaces, adding a centerpiece to outdoor dining tables, and for a starter if you’re not sure you want a large fire pit. But I wanted to find a sleek, modern design that was exceptional in both form and function.
This tabletop fire pit hits both of those marks, with a smokeless, ethanol design. The glass on either side is not only beautiful but also serves as a wind and heat deflector. Together, I think that the stainless steel and tempered glass exude modern elegance- all the while providing the durability you need to enjoy it time after time. Buy Here.
Goodwin Fire Pit Table
A small fire pit table with this one is a fantastic choice for a patio, but even for delightful additions near a garden or fountain. This fire pit table is easily one of my favorite contemporary designs, with some incredible features for safe and versatile use (it’s also available in a larger 48-inch size!).
This is a modern fire pit design on full display, with the ability to switch from propane or natural gas. Entertaining is easy with electric ignition and a flame control knob. I love that this rust-proof fire pit can convert to a coffee table when not in use. It’s even CSA certified for safe use- and the 50,000 BTU output is nothing to sneeze at. I love how this fire pit packs in modern functionality with a durable design- and for a lower price than I expected. Buy Here.
Polywood Square Fire Pit Table
This is a great option if you want a customizable, low-maintenance fire pit table. It’s one of the few on the market built in the USA, and the modern quality is stunning. Depending on the finish you select, this Polywood fire pit table would look spectacular in contemporary and even modern farmhouse homes.
Place this on your patio or in your garden for a gorgeous addition. The stainless steel burner is easy to clean, while the circular wind and heat guard add ambiance and protection. I love the customization options and the marine-grade hardware: both features you won’t find in budget designs. Buy Here.
Elementi Granville Outdoor Table
The sleek, modern lines are perfect for a modern look- but it’s the quality and features that make this a fire pit table you should consider. If you’re looking for a large modern fire pit for entertaining, then this may be the best fit for you.
The beautiful natural gas is constructed with concrete and a stainless steel burner. It’s both CSA and CE certified- which is reassuring for such a large fire pit. Excellent customer ratings aside, I also like the 45,000 BTU heat output and the ambiance this brings to a patio. Buy Here.
HeatMaxx Fire Pit Grill
While most of my ideas focus on modern fire pits for your backyard patio or garden, what’s a list without a contemporary portable fire pit? With the upgrades and innovation to contemporary designs, I decided to go for a sleek, affordable, and multipurpose fire pit.
You can take this collapsible fire pit on the go or to your next barbeque. It’s made with stainless steel and features a smokeless burn. That means less mess and it’s a better option if you’re like me and have allergies. The grill top is just what you need for grilling up meat, seafood, or a vegetarian alternative. Buy Here.
Outdoor GreatRoom Company
I wanted to finish my list with one of the most presentation-worthy modern fire pits. This fire pit table may not be in everyone’s budget, but it features a gorgeous premium build, and stunning features, and may inspire you even if you want a smaller model like it. The stucco and the mosaic top are refined, elegant, and truly unique.
Clean lines pair with a stainless steel crystal fire® burner for a warm ambiance. With multiple colors to choose from and a complimentary gas conversion kit, this gorgeous fire pit table is made to be versatile. Finishing touches I love include glass wind guards (optional), a sliding access door, plus a UL listing for safe use. Buy Here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answer: Backyard fire pits can be safe or dangerous. The issue is that fire pits of any kind are open-burning. An exposed flame poses potential risks and is trickier to manage, but, when proper precautions are taken, a fire pit can be enjoyed safely. Fire pits need to be placed at least 10 feet away from the house, on level ground and must be operated with care.
Certain fire pits have safety features, such as automatic shut-off systems and approval or certifications from respected testing organizations (CSA, ETL, etc). The other mistake is wearing loose, flammable clothing or sitting too close to the fire pit.
Answer: Fire pits can safely be used on concrete. However, I advise using a fire pit liner and/ or insert to protect your patio from damage. Concrete will split and crack over time, even with a liner or heat shield.
Because of this, it’s important to check your patio every once in a while. While concrete cans are fine, wooden decks aren’t a safe alternative. A fire pit placed directly on a wooden deck is a recipe for a quickly spreading fire. The exception is a tabletop fire pit that’s not placed directly on your wooden deck.
Answer: Fire pits should never be used during an excessively windy day. A day that’s both windy and dry poses fire risks. Some regions are more susceptible than others- and there may even be warnings issued through the national weather service.
You should never use a fire pit in a covered area, anywhere without ample ventilation, and anywhere close to a foundation or something else that’s potentially flammable. Finally, everyone needs to check with their state’s laws and regulations. It’s usually legal to have a fire pit, but many states have regulations and restrictions for when and where you can either use a fire pit or burn materials in your fire pit.
Answer: Fire pits should never be used during an excessively windy day. A day that’s both windy and dry poses fire risks. Some regions are more susceptible than others- and there may even be warnings issued through the national weather service.
You should never use a fire pit in a covered area, anywhere without ample ventilation, and anywhere close to a foundation or something else that’s potentially flammable. Finally, everyone needs to check with their state’s laws and regulations. It’s usually legal to have a fire pit, but many states have regulations and restrictions for when and where you can either use a fire pit or burn materials in your fire pit.
Answer: A fire pit is a good idea for some, and less so for others. Fire pits produce more heat and warm more efficiently than patio heaters. They also arguably provide more ambiance than patio heaters.
At the same time, fire pits require upkeep and maintenance. They pose fire hazards if they aren’t being used correctly, and they aren’t going to be the best solution for everyone. With proper use and maintenance, however, a fire pit can be a truly enjoyable addition to your backyard.
Answer: A fire pit is a good idea for some, and less so for others. Fire pits produce more heat and warm more efficiently than patio heaters. They also arguably provide more ambiance than patio heaters.
At the same time, fire pits require upkeep and maintenance. They pose fire hazards if they aren’t being used correctly, and they aren’t going to be the best solution for everyone. With proper use and maintenance, however, a fire pit can be a truly enjoyable addition to your backyard.
Final Thoughts
Modern fire pits have come a long way. With easy electric ignition, heat-efficient models, and safety certifications, a modern fire pit can truly transform your entertaining space. At the same time, be honest with yourself about whether or not a fire pit is the best fit.
If you want a modern heating solution with less upkeep, patio heaters are a possible alternative. Whatever you decide on, buy a heating solution that will be practical and enjoyable. As a bonus tip, pair one of my modern fire pit ideas with a weather-resistant fire pit cover to keep it good as new for longer.
Final Recommendation
While I’ve selected some of my favorite ideas for a modern fire pit, the best fit for you depends on your budget, available space, and how you plan to use it. Have limited space and just want a little heat?
A tabletop fire pit makes the most sense. But for the average person, I recommend something like the Flowing Fire Pit Table. It’s available in two sizes so it’s a good match for patios and gardens of different sizes. I love that it’s CSA certified for safe use, equipped with electric ignition, and adjustable flame technology, and has a weather-resistant frame.
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