Your pool may be the star of your backyard, but it shouldn’t stand alone. Adding a patio or fire pit creates a more complete outdoor living experience, ideal for entertaining, lounging, or enjoying Rhode Island’s cooler evenings.
This guide will show you how to combine a pool, patio, and fire feature in a cohesive design, covering layout, material choices, safety, and style considerations to help you create a backyard retreat that’s both functional and beautiful.
Why Combine a Pool, Patio, and Fire Feature?
Integrating these features maximizes the use of your outdoor space and encourages year-round enjoyment.
Benefits of Combining Elements
- Create defined zones for lounging, dining, and swimming
- Add warmth and comfort during spring, fall, and cool summer nights
- Boost curb appeal and property value
- Support entertaining with more seating and ambiance
- Design cohesion through matching hardscape materials and finishes
Start with a Solid Patio Foundation
Your patio sets the stage for all other outdoor features. It should offer enough space for furniture and foot traffic while visually connecting your pool to the rest of the yard.
Ideal Patio Locations
- Adjacent to one end of the pool for sunbathing or dining
- Slightly elevated for visual interest and drainage
- Surrounding one or two sides of the pool with lounge areas
- Near the house for easier access to the kitchen and restrooms
Recommended Materials
- Stamped concrete for a custom look
- Natural stone for elegance and durability
- Pavers for easy maintenance and repair
- Travertine for a cool-to-the-touch surface
Choose materials that are non-slip, heat-resistant, and complement your pool’s color palette.
Learn more: Hardscapes
Add a Fire Pit for Warmth and Year-Round Use
Fire pits extend your outdoor season and bring people together. When placed near a pool, they create contrast—warm, dry comfort alongside cool, reflective water.
Fire Pit Placement Tips
- Position the fire pit 10–20 feet from the pool edge to ensure safety and airflow
- Use wind direction and seating layout to guide orientation
- Ensure fire pit smoke won’t blow toward pool users or into the house
- Surround with comfortable, weather-resistant seating
Types of Fire Features
- Wood-burning: Affordable and classic, but requires ash cleanup and firewood
- Gas/propane: Cleaner, faster, and more controllable
- Built-in fire bowls: Modern, sculptural accents for upscale designs
- Outdoor fireplaces: Elegant, vertical structures that offer privacy and heat
Design Cohesion: Tie Everything Together
To ensure your pool, patio, and fire feature feel like part of the same outdoor space, focus on continuity in:
Materials
Use the same or complementary stone, pavers, or trim to transition between pool coping, patio surface, and fire pit surround.
Colors
Stick to a consistent color palette throughout hardscaping, furniture, and accessories to unify the design.
Lighting
Install ambient lighting to illuminate paths, stairs, and the fire pit zone. Add string lights or sconces to set the mood after sunset.
Add Functional and Decorative Features
Consider these enhancements to take your space to the next level:
- Built-in seating walls near the fire pit
- Pergolas or shade sails over patio areas
- Outdoor kitchen or grill stations
- Water features or accent landscaping
- Outdoor audio systems or integrated speakers
Each of these elements enhances usability, especially for entertaining guests or hosting family events.
Safety Considerations for Fire Features Near Pools
Combining fire and water elements requires extra care to protect your home and guests.
Follow These Guidelines
- Maintain clearances between open flames and seating or fencing
- Install non-combustible materials around fire features
- Include a gas shutoff valve or quick extinguisher nearby
- Follow local Rhode Island fire codes and building guidelines
- Ensure that flames are never directly exposed to splash zones from the pool
Always consult with a professional to make sure your setup is safe and code-compliant.
How Pools Plus Inc. Helps Bring It All Together
At Pools Plus Inc., we specialize in full backyard transformations. Whether you’re adding a patio to an existing pool or designing a new space from the ground up, we’ll guide you through:
- Material selection that’s both stylish and durable
- Safe and functional fire feature design
- Smart layout planning to create flow and comfort
- Integration of lighting, landscaping, and water elements
- Professional pool and hardscape installation that adds lasting value
Contact us to book a consultation and start planning your upgraded backyard experience.
Conclusion
Adding a patio or fire pit to your pool area isn’t just about style—it’s about making your outdoor space more functional, enjoyable, and valuable year-round. With the right design, materials, and professional help, your Rhode Island backyard can become a personal retreat that’s perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and making memories.
Ready to bring fire, water, and comfort together? Let Pools Plus Inc. make it happen.
