Top Outdoor Fireplace Designs for Ridgewood and Oakland, NJ Homes

outdoor fireplace ridgewood nj and oakland nj

If there’s one thing that makes a backyard in Ridgewood or Oakland, NJ, feel like an all-season retreat, it’s a beautifully designed outdoor fireplace. There’s something undeniably satisfying about stepping outside on a crisp evening, feeling the warmth of a glowing fire, and knowing your outdoor space isn’t just for summer. Whether it’s a classic brick hearth, a sleek modern statement piece, or a rustic stone gathering spot, the right fireplace turns an ordinary backyard into an inviting destination. Let’s explore the best designs to transform your outdoor space.

Classic Brick-Style Outdoor Fireplaces for a Timeless Look

There’s something reassuring about a brick-style outdoor fireplace—a design that feels like it has always belonged in the landscape. The structured, stacked look of wall block in a brick pattern provides that same classic appeal with modern durability. If you’re looking for an outdoor fireplace in Ridgewood, NJ, or Oakland, NJ, that offers warmth in every sense of the word, brick-style wall block is an excellent choice. It brings the charm of traditional masonry with the added benefit of being engineered for strength, ensuring your outdoor fireplace stands up to the elements year after year.

A Material That Ages Beautifully

Unlike materials that may fade or wear over time, brick-style wall block ages gracefully, settling into the surroundings while maintaining its structured, intentional look. That’s why it’s a favorite among landscape professionals—it delivers the charm of real brick with the resilience of engineered stone.

Classic Red Brick Aesthetic – Perfect for a traditional, inviting feel.
Weathered or Tumbled Finishes – Adds depth and character with a timeworn appeal.
Patterned Firebox Interiors – Herringbone or stacked designs enhance the look without overpowering the space.
Contrasting Mortar Colors – Darker tones make each block stand out, giving the fireplace a bold, defined appearance.

Designed for Year-Round Enjoyment

Outdoor spaces should be just as inviting in cooler months, and a brick-style wall block outdoor fireplace extends your backyard’s usability well beyond summer. New Jersey’s seasons can be unpredictable, but a well-constructed fireplace provides warmth and ambiance all year long.

Extended Hearth for Extra Seating – Creates a natural gathering spot around the fire.
Built-In Wood Storage – Keeps firewood close without taking up additional space.
Tall Chimney Designs – Helps direct smoke upward for a more comfortable experience.

Customization Without Limits

One of the greatest benefits of brick-style wall block is how easily it fits into different outdoor settings. Whether your home leans traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, professional designers can tailor the structure to match your aesthetic.

Brick-Style Archways – Adds a timeless, old-world charm.
Mixed-Material Accents – Incorporating natural stone elements can add dimension.
Decorative Inlays or Metal Details – Give your fireplace a custom, high-end feel.

A well-designed brick-style wall block fireplace isn’t just a backyard feature—it’s a focal point that makes outdoor spaces more inviting, functional, and beautiful in every season.

Modern Linear Fireplaces for a Contemporary Aesthetic

If classic brick-style outdoor fireplaces bring to mind crackling logs and rustic charm, modern linear fireplaces are their sleek, refined cousins—the kind that belong in a setting where the chairs are just as much about design as they are about comfort. These fireplaces aren’t just sources of warmth; they’re visual statements. Long, low, and streamlined, they create an atmosphere that feels effortlessly sophisticated, perfect for homeowners in Ridgewood and Oakland, NJ, looking for a contemporary outdoor feature.

A Design That Keeps Things Clean and Minimal

Linear fireplaces work exceptionally well in modern outdoor spaces because they embrace simplicity. There are no bulky hearths or oversized mantels—just a crisp, elongated flame that stretches across a slimline firebox. Professionals can integrate them into surrounding structures to create a refined centerpiece for patios and outdoor lounges.

A floating concrete or steel surround can give the fireplace a sculptural quality.
A frameless glass enclosure keeps the fire visible from every angle without adding bulk.
Recessed designs allow the fireplace to be built directly into a wall or seating area for a flush look.

Materials That Match a Contemporary Space

The materials used in a modern linear outdoor fireplace lean toward the bold and the understated—nothing too busy, just clean lines and solid textures. A professional design can incorporate materials that complement the existing architecture while giving the space a high-end feel.

Concrete: Offers a smooth, industrial edge that pairs well with modern furniture.
Steel or Metal Panels: Creates a striking contrast against greenery and wood elements.
Tile or Porcelain: Adds a polished finish with color and texture variations.

These fireplaces also allow for gas or electric options, meaning there’s no need to store firewood or clean up ashes. Just a simple switch or remote, and the flames appear like magic.

A Focal Point for Entertaining

Modern outdoor spaces are designed for gathering, and a linear fireplace naturally encourages conversation. Because of its elongated design, multiple people can sit comfortably around it, enjoying the warmth without being clustered in one spot. Professionals can also design it to fit seamlessly into built-in seating areas or outdoor dining spaces, making it feel like a natural part of the landscape.

Integrated LED lighting can add a soft glow when the fireplace isn’t in use.
Fire glass or lava rock can replace traditional logs for a more contemporary finish.
A linear fireplace set into a dividing wall can warm two areas at once, perfect for multi-use spaces.

For homeowners looking to bring a refined, modern touch to their backyard, a linear outdoor fireplace offers that perfect balance of warmth and design-forward appeal.

Rustic Stone Fireplaces for a Natural, Lodge-Inspired Feel

If a modern linear fireplace is all about sleek sophistication, a rustic stone fireplace is the exact opposite—it’s like stepping into a mountain lodge without leaving your backyard. There’s an undeniable charm to the way natural stone creates a gathering place, something that feels sturdy, welcoming, and built for storytelling. For homeowners in Ridgewood and Oakland, NJ, who love the idea of a warm, inviting outdoor space with a touch of the outdoors, a stone outdoor fireplace is the perfect centerpiece.

A Material That Feels Like It Belongs Outdoors

Stone has a way of making a space feel grounded, like it’s always been part of the landscape. A professionally built stone fireplace can take on different looks depending on the type of stone and layout chosen. Some homeowners prefer a rugged, stacked-stone approach, while others go for a smoother, more refined finish. Either way, the result is something that feels substantial and built to last.

Fieldstone or River Rock: Adds a rustic, natural appearance with earthy tones.
Cut Limestone or Bluestone: Creates a more uniform, elegant look with clean lines.
Reclaimed or Weathered Stone: Gives the fireplace a timeworn feel, perfect for a classic outdoor retreat.

Professionals can also mix different stone types to add depth and interest, giving the fireplace a one-of-a-kind appearance that complements the surrounding landscape.

An Outdoor Fireplace That Invites Gathering

A rustic stone outdoor fireplace is more than just a design choice—it’s an experience. The texture of the stone, the flicker of the flames, and the natural surroundings come together to create a space that feels warm and welcoming in every season.

A deep hearth provides extra seating, making it easy to pull up a chair (or just sit right on the stone).
An oversized chimney design helps create a grand, lodge-inspired aesthetic.
A built-in mantel made from reclaimed wood can add a touch of character and functionality.

Designed for Comfort and Longevity

A professionally installed stone fireplace isn’t just about appearance—it’s about creating a lasting feature that fits seamlessly into your outdoor space. Professionals can design it to work with existing patios, pergolas, or seating areas, ensuring everything feels connected.

Adding integrated wood storage keeps firewood within reach without cluttering the space.
A wraparound stone bench can extend the fireplace’s usability, creating a natural spot for guests to relax.
Soft uplighting can highlight the texture of the stone in the evening, adding to the ambiance.

For those who want their backyard to feel like a rustic retreat, a stone outdoor fireplace is the kind of investment that pays off in cozy nights, good company, and a space that always feels like home.

Dual-Sided Fireplaces for Maximum Enjoyment

There’s something undeniably appealing about a fireplace that does twice the work. A dual-sided outdoor fireplace brings warmth and atmosphere to multiple areas at once, making it a practical and visually striking addition to any backyard in Ridgewood or Oakland, NJ. Whether positioned between a patio and a pool area, an outdoor kitchen and a lounge space, or even as a transition between indoor and outdoor living, this design creates a seamless flow between different parts of the landscape.

A Fireplace That Works from Every Angle

Unlike traditional fireplaces that direct heat and attention to a single space, a dual-sided fireplace keeps two areas connected. This means you can enjoy the flicker of the flames from multiple vantage points, making outdoor entertaining feel more dynamic. Professionals can design these fireplaces as freestanding features or as part of an extended seating wall, depending on how you plan to use your space.

A freestanding design creates a bold architectural element, acting as a natural divider between different zones.
A built-in version can be incorporated into an existing patio wall for a more integrated feel.
A lower, elongated firebox can make the fireplace feel open and accessible from all sides.

A Statement Piece for Any Setting

Because a dual-sided outdoor fireplace is visible from multiple areas, the materials and design details matter. Professionals can customize it to complement the surrounding landscape, ensuring it fits naturally into the space while adding a sense of structure.

Stone or Brick: Adds texture and a sense of permanence, perfect for traditional and rustic settings.
Concrete or Stucco: Creates a modern, minimalist look that works well with contemporary outdoor designs.
Glass or Metal Accents: Bring a sleek, industrial edge that pairs well with modern patios and outdoor furnishings.

By working with a professional, you can select finishes that align with your home’s exterior while creating a standout feature that remains timeless.

Expanding Your Outdoor Living Space

A dual-sided fireplace doesn’t just add warmth—it expands the possibilities for how you use your backyard. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, this type of fireplace creates a central focal point that draws people in.

Placing it between an outdoor dining area and a lounge space allows guests to enjoy the fire from both settings.
A poolside installation provides a warm, cozy contrast to cool evening swims.
Pairing it with built-in seating ensures there’s always a comfortable spot to relax.

For homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor space, a dual-sided outdoor fireplace is a versatile choice that brings twice the ambiance, warmth, and charm.

Outdoor Fireplaces With Built-in Seating and Storage

An outdoor fireplace is already a focal point, but adding built-in seating and storage takes it from simple to exceptional. Instead of dragging out extra chairs or hunting for firewood every time you want to enjoy a cozy evening, everything is right where you need it. For homeowners in Ridgewood and Oakland, NJ, this design creates a comfortable, well-organized outdoor space that’s always ready for relaxing or entertaining.

A Seating Area That Feels Intentional

Built-in seating turns an outdoor fireplace into more than just a feature—it creates an inviting space that feels like a natural extension of your backyard. Professionals can customize seating to fit the layout, ensuring the area feels welcoming and well-planned.

A curved bench wrapping around the fireplace offers a cozy, intimate setup for gatherings.
Extended stone or brick ledges provide casual seating without the need for extra furniture.
Upholstered cushions can add a layer of comfort while complementing the surrounding design.

By incorporating permanent seating, the space remains structured and ready to use at any time, eliminating the need for constant rearranging.

Convenient Wood Storage That Keeps Things Tidy

There’s nothing worse than scrambling for firewood when you’re ready to enjoy a fire. Built-in storage ensures logs are always within reach without cluttering the space. Professionals can incorporate storage areas that are both practical and visually appealing.

Open cubbies beneath the seating keep wood accessible while maintaining a clean, organized look.
Side compartments built into the fireplace structure create easy access while maximizing space.
Covered storage options help protect firewood from the elements, keeping it dry and ready to use.

These details not only make the fireplace more convenient but also contribute to the overall design, giving the space a polished, well-thought-out appearance.

A Space That Feels Complete

When an outdoor fireplace includes built-in seating and storage, it becomes more than just a fire feature—it becomes a gathering place. Everything is designed to work together, making the area feel comfortable and effortless to use.

Integrated lighting can highlight seating areas for evening enjoyment.
Coordinating materials create a cohesive look that ties the fireplace into the rest of the landscape.
Thoughtful placement ensures the space remains open and inviting, whether used for quiet evenings or lively gatherings.

For homeowners who want their outdoor space to feel complete, a fireplace with built-in seating and storage offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and timeless appeal.

Landscape DesignHalstead Media GroupFebruary 7, 2025Green NatureLandscape Design, Landscaping, Fire Feature