Custom fire feature installations that extend your outdoor season, create a gathering focal point, and are engineered for safe, long-term use in Illinois weather.
Let’s build something amazing
Most homeowners underestimate how much a well-designed fire feature changes how they use their outdoor space. A portable fire pit gets moved around and stored away. A properly designed and built fire pit or outdoor fireplace becomes a permanent focal point that brings people outside from early spring through late fall — and even into winter.
The difference is in the design and construction. H&M Gardening builds custom fire pits and outdoor fireplaces that are structurally integrated into your outdoor living space, properly sized for your patio layout, and built with materials that handle Illinois freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or deteriorating. We handle everything from design and gas line coordination to masonry and surrounding hardscape, so your fire feature works beautifully from day one.
H&M Gardening installs custom fire pits and outdoor fireplaces as standalone features or as part of a complete outdoor living transformation.
Round, square, rectangular, or freeform fire pit designs built directly into your patio layout with matching paver or natural stone surrounds. Available in wood-burning or gas configurations with integrated seating walls and proper ventilation.
Clean, low-maintenance gas fire pits with glass media, lava rock, or natural flame appearance. Requires a dedicated gas line connection — we coordinate all utility work and inspections as part of the project scope.
Full masonry outdoor fireplaces that serve as the architectural centerpiece of your outdoor space. Provides directed heat, full fire enclosure, and dramatic visual impact. Available in natural stone, brick, or stucco finish with wood-burning or gas insert options.
Complete fire feature environments with integrated paver or block seating walls that define the space, eliminate the need for movable chairs, and create a finished outdoor room feel.
Fire pits and fireplaces designed and built as part of a complete patio or outdoor living project — ensuring proper proportion, layout, and drainage integration from the start.
Every fire pit and outdoor fireplace installation includes proper structural planning, material selection, and safety compliance — not just the feature itself.
Submit an estimate request form. Share your goals, budget range, and project timeline with our team, and we will schedule an in-person consultation.
We will meet for an in-person estimate to walk the property, review your project in detail, discuss your goals, take measurements, talk about your budget, and set up a customized 3D design.
We create a custom 3D design tailored specifically to your home, needs, and budget, along with a detailed and transparent estimate. Our goal is to bring your vision to life before construction even begins so you can see exactly what to expect. With no surprises, no confusion, and full alignment from the start, we ensure every detail matches your expectations.
With over 30 years of experience, our team of specialists transform your vision into a thoughtfully designed outdoor living space. From initial concept through completion, we oversee every aspect of the process with precision and care delivering a seamless experience and an outdoor living space crafted for long-term beauty, functionality, and enjoyment.
Custom built-in fire pits with paver or stone surrounds typically start around $5,000–$10,000 for a basic design integrated into an existing patio. More elaborate fire pits with seating walls, gas lines, and premium stone work range from $10,000–$20,000+. Standalone fire pit additions to an existing patio are on the lower end; new patio and fire pit combinations are priced as a complete project.
Built-in outdoor fireplaces are a larger investment than fire pits due to the structural masonry work involved. Most outdoor fireplaces in Chicagoland range from $15,000–$40,000+ depending on height, materials, gas vs wood configuration, and whether a surround mantel or arch is included. They add significant visual impact and resale value to the property.
A: Both have advantages. Gas fire pits are cleaner, easier to use — push a button and you have fire — and produce no smoke or ash cleanup. Wood-burning fire pits give a more authentic campfire experience with crackle and natural flame. Gas is better for convenience and suburban neighborhoods with fire restrictions. Wood is better for those who prefer the traditional experience and have space for firewood storage.
A: Permit requirements vary by suburb. Most wood-burning fire pits do not require permits, but outdoor fireplaces and any project involving a gas line do. Gas line installations require a licensed plumber or gas fitter and inspection in most Chicagoland municipalities. We handle the permit process as part of every gas fire feature project.
Whether you are planning a simple built-in fire pit or a full outdoor fireplace as the centerpiece of your backyard, H&M Gardening is ready to help. Contact us to discuss your project with the owners directly.