If you want a simple DIY firepit you can finish in time to light this weekend, keep reading. This guide shows an easy method to build a sturdy, attractive firepit that’s perfect for family nights and fall gatherings.
The supplies for this firepit were provided to me by Lowe’s.
This DIY is EASY PEASY!
SKILL LEVEL:
EASY. If we can do it, anyone can.
SUPPLIES:
You can purchase a firepit kit that contains the basic pieces needed for a similar build. For this project we chose to customize for greater height and to insert a metal firepit bowl. We used a mix of concrete firepit stones and a metal bowl with a lip, grate and cover to achieve the look we wanted. If you want the metal insert as shown, select a deep steel bowl designed for wood burning so it sits securely on the stone ring. Staff at home improvement stores can help you choose the right stones, bowl and quantity for your chosen size and height.
TIME INVOLVED:
This is a fast project when you have materials and a prepared surface. With everything ready it can take as little as 15 minutes to stack the stones into a complete firepit ring.
BUILD YOUR OWN FIREPIT INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Begin with a level, non-flammable base. We used a pea gravel patio, but a cement slab, brick, or stone surface also works well.
2. Arrange the first row of stones into a circle. Check the diameter against the metal bowl you plan to use so it will sit correctly.
3. Use a level to make sure each stone sits flat. Level each row as you build to maintain a balanced and even ring.
4. Stack the stones into four rows (or fewer if you prefer). Stagger joints between rows for stability. No mortar is required when stones are properly matched and staggered.
5. Set the metal firepit bowl into the top of the stone ring so the bowl’s lip overlaps the stones and holds it in place.
6. Step back and enjoy your work — then invite the family for S’mores. It’s a quick and satisfying build.
We watched a short instructional video for ideas before starting; such videos are a useful supplement to these steps.
We’re transforming a small new-construction backyard that started out rather uninviting into an outdoor room our family will use. The firepit and a pea gravel patio are central to creating a cozy gathering spot. My goal was to produce a practical, attractive outdoor space while keeping costs and complexity manageable.
As with many of my home projects, I planned the layout and materials carefully to achieve a useful result on a budget. I balance the design I want with what’s realistic to build myself, and I enjoy figuring out affordable ways to reach that look.
In addition to the firepit, we added useful outdoor equipment and plants to make the space functional for entertaining. We included a propane or electric outdoor heater to extend the season into chilly nights, and a BBQ for grilling meals so the space is inviting for longer gatherings. Plants placed around the pea gravel patio soften the area and add living texture that will continue to look better as they grow in.
Beyond this initial firepit and BBQ area, our plans include installing a flagstone patio on a newly leveled upper area to provide a dining space, plus building raised garden boxes in a back corner for vegetables. Privacy screens and additional plantings will help the yard feel enclosed and lush rather than bare. These improvements will be completed a few steps at a time as time and budget allow.
We’ll share further updates on laying pea gravel, setting flagstone, building garden boxes, and creating plant borders as the project progresses. The idea is to create an outdoor room that feels welcoming and is actually used by our family rather than staying an unused space.
We’re pleased with the progress so far — the yard already feels more inviting and useful.
This project demonstrates how a few well-chosen elements — a firepit, comfortable seating area, grill, and plants — can transform an ordinary backyard into an enjoyable outdoor living space. A modest investment in materials and a little planning can deliver big returns in daily enjoyment and entertaining.
Thanks to the suppliers who provided materials and products for this backyard update. We’ll continue to post progress and practical tips for completing the rest of the makeover.
