In this Guide
- Trend #1: Outdoor Kitchens Continue to Grow in Popularity
- Trend #2: Gas Fire Pits Are Replacing Traditional Wood Burning Fire Pits
- Trend #3: Outdoor Fireplaces Create Comfortable Gathering Spaces
- Trend #4: Outdoor Heating Expands Backyard Use
- Trend #5: Covered Outdoor Living Areas
- Trend #6: Outdoor Entertainment Spaces
- Trend #7: Low-Maintenance Outdoor Living Design
- Trend #8: Designing Outdoor Spaces Around Gathering
More
Why Outdoor Living Is Growing in Northern Arizona
Northern Arizona offers a unique climate that makes outdoor living appealing for much of the year.
Compared to many parts of Arizona, higher elevations provide:
- Cooler summer temperatures
- Four distinct seasons
- Comfortable evenings
- Opportunities for year-round outdoor entertaining
Many homeowners want outdoor spaces that allow them to:
- Gather with family and friends
- Cook and dine outdoors
- Enjoy evening fires
- Watch sports or movies outside
- Increase the functionality of their property
Rather than building larger homes, many families are choosing to improve their outdoor spaces.
01
Trend #1: Outdoor Kitchens Continue to Grow in Popularity
Outdoor kitchens remain one of the biggest outdoor living trends in Northern Arizona.
Today’s outdoor kitchens often include much more than a grill.
Popular Outdoor Kitchen Features
Homeowners frequently choose:
- Built-in grills
- Side burners
- Refrigeration
- Storage cabinets
- Sinks
- Pizza ovens
- Counter seating
- Bar areas
The goal is to create a space where cooking, dining, and entertaining happen in one location.
Why Homeowners Like Outdoor Kitchens
Benefits often include:
- More entertaining space
- Reduced indoor heat during summer cooking
- Easier hosting of family gatherings
- Better use of outdoor living areas
The exact features and costs vary depending on the size of the project and equipment selected.
02
Trend #2: Gas Fire Pits Are Replacing Traditional Wood Burning Fire Pits
Why Gas Fire Pits Are Trending
Gas fire pits offer:
- Push-button ignition
- No firewood storage
- Less smoke
- Easier cleanup
- Consistent flames
- Convenient operation
This convenience is especially appealing for homeowners who entertain frequently.
Safety Considerations
Gas fire pits should always be professionally installed, properly vented if required, located according to manufacturer clearances, and inspected periodically. Homeowners should always follow manufacturer guidelines and local building requirements.
03
Trend #3: Outdoor Fireplaces Create Comfortable Gathering Spaces
Outdoor fireplaces continue to be a favorite feature for homeowners who want a focal point in their backyard.
Unlike fire pits, fireplaces create a more defined seating area and can provide additional wind protection.
Benefits of Outdoor Fireplaces
Outdoor fireplaces can:
- Extend outdoor use into cooler months
- Create visual interest
- Add warmth to outdoor seating areas
- Define entertainment spaces
- Increase backyard comfort
Many homeowners pair outdoor fireplaces with patios, outdoor kitchens, and covered living areas.
Gas vs. Wood Outdoor Fireplaces
Both options can work well.
Gas fireplaces typically offer:
- Easier operation
- Less maintenance
- Cleaner burning
- Often has a lower installation cost
Wood-burning fireplaces may appeal to homeowners who enjoy:
- Traditional fires
- Wood-burning aromas
- Larger flames
The best choice depends on personal preference, maintenance expectations, and local requirements.
04
Trend #4: Outdoor Heating Expands Backyard Use
Northern Arizona evenings can become cool, especially during fall, winter, and spring.
As a result, outdoor heating systems continue to gain popularity.
Common Outdoor Heating Options
Popular choices include:
- Gas patio heaters
- Electric patio heaters
- Outdoor fireplaces
- Fire pits
- Infrared heating systems
These systems can make outdoor spaces more comfortable during cooler temperatures.
Safety Matters
Outdoor heating equipment should always:
- Be installed according to manufacturer instructions
- Maintain required clearances
- Be kept away from combustible materials
- Receive periodic inspections and maintenance
05
Trend #5: Covered Outdoor Living Areas
Many homeowners want outdoor spaces that provide protection from sun, rain, and seasonal weather.
Covered outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular throughout Prescott and surrounding communities.
Common Features
Covered spaces often include:
- Pergolas
- Patio covers
- Outdoor kitchens
- Ceiling fans
- Lighting
- Fireplaces
- Entertainment systems
These additions can improve comfort and encourage more year-round use.
06
Trend #6: Outdoor Entertainment Spaces
Backyards are becoming extensions of indoor living rooms.
Many homeowners are creating dedicated entertainment areas that include:
- Outdoor televisions
- Sound systems
- Comfortable seating
- Fire features
- Outdoor dining areas
The goal is to create spaces where family and friends naturally gather.
This trend aligns well with the growing desire for outdoor living spaces that support connection and relaxation.
07
Trend #7: Low-Maintenance Outdoor Living Design
Many homeowners prefer outdoor spaces that require less upkeep.
This trend influences decisions about:
- Fire feature selection
- Material choices
- Landscaping
- Outdoor furniture
- Cooking equipment
Gas fire features, durable countertops, weather-resistant materials, and quality appliances are often selected because they can reduce ongoing maintenance requirements.
08
Trend #8: Designing Outdoor Spaces Around Gathering
Perhaps the biggest trend is not a specific product. It is designing outdoor spaces around how people gather.
Homeowners are asking questions like:
- Where will people sit?
- How will guests move through the space?
- Where will conversations happen?
- What features will be used most often?
The most successful outdoor living projects focus on how families actually use the space rather than simply adding features.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Choosing Features Before Creating a Plan
Adding features one at a time without an overall design can create layout challenges. A complete plan often helps ensure all components work together.
Underestimating Utility Requirements
Outdoor kitchens and fire features may require gas lines, electrical service, water connections, and/or drainage. Planning these items early can help avoid costly changes later.
Ignoring Safety Clearances
Fireplaces, fire pits, grills, and heaters require specific clearances from combustible materials. Ignoring these requirements can create safety concerns.
Selecting Low-Quality Components
Outdoor equipment is exposed to weather year-round. Choosing products designed specifically for outdoor use can help improve longevity and performance.
When to Call a Professional
Many outdoor living projects involve fire, gas, heating, or built-in systems that benefit from professional installation.
Get professional help when
- Installing an outdoor fireplace
- Adding a fire pit
- Running gas lines
- Installing patio heaters
- Adding built-in grills
- Building an outdoor kitchen
PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE HELPS WITH
- Proper clearances
- Code compliance
- Safe operation
- Correct clearances
- Long term performance
Safety should always be a top priority when fire, gas, or heating equipment is involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get your answers to commonly asked questions for fire pits.
What is the most popular outdoor living trend in Northern Arizona?
Outdoor kitchens, gas fire pits, and outdoor fireplaces are among the most popular outdoor living features because they help homeowners create comfortable gathering spaces.
Are outdoor fireplaces worth it in Arizona?
Many homeowners find outdoor fireplaces valuable because they provide warmth, create a focal point, and allow outdoor spaces to be used more often during cooler months.
What is better, an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit?
Both have advantages. Fire pits typically encourage group seating, while fireplaces create a more structured gathering area and can offer additional wind protection.
Do outdoor kitchens increase enjoyment of a backyard?
Outdoor kitchens can improve convenience for entertaining by allowing cooking, dining, and gathering to happen in the same space.
Can gas fire pits stay outside year-round?
Most gas fire pits are designed for outdoor use, but homeowners should follow manufacturer recommendations regarding covers, maintenance, and seasonal care.
What outdoor heating option works best in Northern Arizona?
The best option depends on the space, desired heat output, fuel source, and homeowner preferences. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, patio heaters, and infrared heaters are all common choices.
How do I plan an outdoor living space?
Start by identifying how you want to use the space, then create a layout that considers seating, cooking, heating, traffic flow, and safety clearances.
