How to Set Up an Amazing Outdoor Fireplace for Your Short-Term Rental
An outdoor fireplace can be a game-changing amenity for your short-term rental, offering guests a memorable experience and setting your property apart from the competition. Best of all, it doesn’t have to break the bank to deliver significant returns on investment. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing, setting up, and optimizing your outdoor fireplace to drive more bookings and guest satisfaction.
Choosing the Right Fireplace
There are two main options to consider for your outdoor fireplace: wood-burning fireplaces and gas (propane) fireplaces. Each has its pros and cons, so the best choice will depend on your property’s location, target audience, and maintenance capabilities.
Wood-Burning Fireplaces
Pros:
- Offers a nostalgic, sensory experience: the crackle of flames, the smell of wood smoke, and the joy of roasting marshmallows.
- Creates lasting memories for families and groups, tapping into the hospitality industry’s core: providing experiences.
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance, including cleaning the fire pit between stays.
- Guests need access to firewood, either provided by you or sourced locally.
- Higher fire risk, especially in wooded or debris-filled areas.
Best For: Large properties with families or groups looking for that quintessential campfire experience.
Gas (Propane) Fireplaces
Pros:
- Easy to use—guests can simply press a button to start the fire.
- Low maintenance—no need for firewood or post-stay cleaning.
- Lower fire risk, especially in areas with fire safety restrictions.
Cons:
- Doesn’t replicate the rustic charm of a wood-burning fireplace.
Best For: Smaller properties or those targeting couples, retirees, or guests seeking simplicity and convenience.
Setting Up the Fireplace Area
The setup around your fireplace is just as important as the fireplace itself. Follow these tips to create a safe, functional, and inviting outdoor space.
Safety First
- Clearance: Maintain 10–15 feet of space between the fire pit and any flammable materials, like trees, decks, or debris. Use gravel or non-flammable ground materials around the fire pit.
- Fire Safety Tools: Provide a fire extinguisher nearby, and keep fire-starting materials, like lighters and matches, out of reach of children.
Ample Seating
Make sure the seating matches your property’s capacity. For example, if your rental sleeps 15, ensure the fire pit can accommodate 10–15 people comfortably. Investing in adequate seating is a simple way to elevate the space for guests.
Ambience Matters
- Add string lights or lanterns to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
- Use gravel or a well-defined area to give the space a polished, intentional look.
The Importance of Professional Photography
A beautifully designed outdoor fireplace won’t drive bookings if potential guests can’t see its full potential in your photos. Here’s how to capture the magic:
- Dusk or Evening Shots: Highlight the warm glow of the fire with string lights for a cozy, inviting vibe.
- Aerial Views: Showcase the full layout of the fire pit area, emphasizing its size and appeal.
- Lifestyle Shots: Help guests envision themselves enjoying the space—think families roasting marshmallows or couples relaxing by the fire.
Something special
Consider adding something special to make your fire fit area stand out. This could be design only elements or something functional like swinging chairs.
One of the coolest fire pits I have seen has a metal sasquatch family around it.
Thinking outside the box can help you create an amenity that really stands out!
Final Thoughts
An outdoor fireplace is more than just a feature—it’s a way to create unforgettable guest experiences. Whether you choose a wood-burning or propane option, focus on safety, proper seating, and professional presentation to maximize its value.
Remember, hospitality is about evoking emotions and creating memories. When guests picture themselves gathered around your fire pit, sharing stories and laughter, your property becomes more than a place to stay—it becomes part of their story.
Have questions or need more tips? Feel free to reach out—I’d love to help you create the ultimate short-term rental experience!
