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Why Plan Your Outdoor Living Space Before Building?
Many homeowners start by choosing a grill, fire pit, or outdoor fireplace. While these features are important, the most successful outdoor living spaces begin with a complete plan.
A well-planned design helps you:
- Maximize available space
- Improve Traffic Flow
- Increase comfort and usability
- Reduce costly changes later
- Create a cohesive look
- Adjust safety requirements from the beginning
01
Start With Your Outdoor Living Goals
Every homeowner has different priorities. Ask yourself:
- Do you want a quiet place to relax?
- Will you frequently host family gatherings?
- Do you enjoy outdoor cooking?
- Do you want year-round use?
- Will children or pets use the area regularly?
Your answers will help determine the size, layout, and features that make the most sense for your property.
02
Common Outdoor Living Priorities
outdoor entertainment
Homeowners who frequently host guests often prioritize:
- Large seating areas
- Outdoor fireplaces
- Fire pits
- Outdoor kitchens
- Outdoor patios
- Outdoor lighting
Family Gathering Spaces
Families often focus on:
- Comfortable seating
- Safe fire features
- Durable surfaces
- Shade structures
- Flexible layouts
Outdoor Cooking
- Built-in grills
- Side burners
- Refrigeration
- Storage cabinets
- Pizza ovens
- Counter space prep
03
Consider Northern Arizona's Climate
One of the biggest advantages of living in Northern Arizona is the ability to enjoy outdoor spaces during much of the year. However, the climate should influence your design decisions.
Sun Exposure
Prescott, Cottonwood & Camp Verde
- Covered patios
- Pergolas
- Shade structures
- Strategic landscaping
- Outdoor-rated ceiling fans
Cool Evenings
Extending the Outdoor Season
Many communities cool off after sunset.
- Outdoor fireplaces
- Gas fire pits
- Wood-burning fire features
- Patio heaters
Wind conditions
Seasonal Winds
Winds can affect:
- Fire feature performance
- Outdoor cooking
- Seating comfort
- Smoke movement
04
Designing the Layout
Zone 1
Gathering Zone
Typically the focal point of the space:
- Outdoor fireplace
- Fire pit
- Comfortable seating
- Conversation area
Zone 2
Cooking Zone
Outdoor kitchens often include:
- Built-in grills
- Prep counters
- Storage
- Refrigeration
Zone 3
Dining Zone
Should provide:
- Comfortable seating
- Easy access to cooking areas
- Shade when possible
- Adequate lighting
Zone 4
Transition Areas
05
Choosing Between an Outdoor Fireplace and Fire Pit
Outdoor fireplace
- Creates a strong visual focal point
- Direct heat toward seating areas
- Provides wind protection
- Can enhance privacy
- Often complements patio designs
Fire pit
- Encourages social interaction
- Provides 360-degree seating
- Usually requires less space
- Often has a lower installation cost
06
Planning an Outdoor Kitchen
Cooking Style
Do you primarily Grill burgers and steaks, Smoke meats, cook pizzas, or entertain large groups? Your cooking preferences help determine the equipment you need.
Utility Requirements
- Gas lines
- Electrical service
- Water lines
- Drainage
Material Selection
- Stone
- Concrete
- Stainless steel
- Outdoor-rated cabinetry
07
Outdoor Living Safety Considerations
Fire Safety
keep fire features away from:
- Overhanging branches
- Patio furniture
- Combustible walls
- Decorative materials
Cooking Safety
Outdoor cooking appliances should:
- Be installed properly
- Have adequate ventillation
- Be positioned away from heavy foot traffic
Walking Surfaces
Reduce slips and trip hazards by selecting:
- Stable pavers
- Textured concrete
- Properly graded services
Lighting
Proper lighting improves safety after dark:
- Path lighting
- Step lighting
- Task lighting for cooking areas
- Accent lighting around seating spaces
08
Selecting Durable Materials
Northern Arizona weather can expose outdoor materials to UV sunlight and temperature fluctuations, rain, snow in some elevations, and wind.
Popular Options Include:
- Natural stone
- Concrete pavers
- Stucco
- Powder coated metals
- Stainless steel
- Composite materials
Design Note
Durable materials often require less maintenance over time
09
Planning for the Future
- Larger family gatherings
- Additional seating
- Outdoor television installation
- Expanded cooking equipment
- New landscaping
Planning for future expansion may help avoid costly renovations later.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Starting Without a Master Plan
Adding features one at a time can create layout problems and reduce functionality.
Ignoring Utility Requirements
Gas, electrical, and water needs should be considered early in the design process.
Choosing Features That Are Too Large
Oversized features can overwhelm smaller outdoor spaces.
Forgetting About Shade
Even beautiful outdoor spaces may go unused if they lack adequate shade during warmer months.
Overlooking Safety Clearances
Improper placement of fireplaces, fire pits, and grills can create safety hazards and code issues.
Focusing Only on Appearance
A beautiful space should also be comfortable, functional, and easy to maintain.
When to Call a Professional
Get professional help when
- Installing an outdoor fireplace
- Adding a gas fire pit
- Building an outdoor kitchen
- Running gas lines
- Modifying electrical systems
- Designing complex outdoor living layouts
What professionals ensure
- Proper clearances
- Safe installation
- Code compliance
- Utility coordination
- Long term performance
