26 Best Outdoor Fire Pit Chair & Bench Ideas for Cozy Fireside Seating
Updated: May 02, 2024
Turn your backyard into a relaxing, inviting oasis with these designer-inspired fire pit seating ideas for every lifestyle.
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Sitting around a backyard fire pit on a chilly evening is one of life’s little pleasures. To make the most of the warmth and glow, having plenty of seating for family and friends to gather around is essential, and you’ll want to create an environment that fits your outdoor space and lifestyle.
Fire pit seating furniture will be outdoors for the majority of its lifetime, so make sure to focus on quality pieces built with reliable materials and durability. Then, sit back, relax and enjoy the crackling logs from a pair of rocking chairs or on a snuggly wicker patio sofa.
Need a little inspiration? Cate Singleton, director of design at Tilly, shares her tips and trending insights, so you can choose the best fit out of these fire pit seating ideas. Plus, Matthew O’Grady, director at Thomas Matthew Kitchens & Furniture, shares tips and safety considerations for creating a warm, inviting space.
Create Closeness With Circular Seating
Latitude Run Rasmus 7-Piece Rattan Sofa
A half-moon couch creates a more intimate environment among guests, which can encourage good conversation—and what’s a night out by the fire without good conversation? The Rasmus 7-piece rattan sofa by Latitude Run features a curved design that intends to bring people together. It’s built from UV-resistant wicker and features two sofa separators that serve as drink tables. This set also comes with a circular center table. The sofa is modular, so you can take it all apart to move or clean it. Here’s what you need to know about wicker furniture, including how to clean it.
“Seating configuration can significantly influence how drawn people are to the space; consider creating a semi-circle or full-circle layout of comfortable seats facing inward to promote interaction and increase the sense of intimacy,” O’Grady says.
Streamline the Aesthetic With Bench Seats
Ivy Bronx Byington Acacia Outdoor Bench
Bench seats, like these garden bench seats, feature sharp lines and are geometrically pleasing, so they can offer a streamlined aesthetic to your outdoor fireplace area. Bench seats come in all sorts of sizes, colors and seating capacities, but our shopping editors are partial to these teakwood benches with eye-pleasing triangular legs. Pieces like this can really make your outdoor space pop with creativity. These particular benches are slatted—so you may consider adding cushions that match your existing color scheme—and can comfortably seat three people.
Open the Conversation with a Round Bench
Red Barrel Studio Curved Picnic Bench
“The curved shape of this eucalyptus bench is a great way to repeat the form of a round fire pit, while also adding a natural wood element to the space,” says Singleton. Why not purchase multiples of this backless pew to form a half-moon or full-circle arrangement? It’s a cool way to facilitate intimate conversations.
“Placing this piece on a square deck or against the corner of a fence can also help to soften the edge and provide visual interest.” We’re impressed by the fully wooden construction and 500-pound weight capacity. In a word, this bench is solid.
Flex Your Creative Muscles With DIY Wooden Benches
Millwood Pines Lavergne Bench
If you’d rather have a physical hand in the design of your firepit seating area, consider making your own outdoor benches. We even have a patio bench with end tables building plan already put together for you.
DIY wooden benches bring an element of charm, not to mention uniqueness, to your space—they are, after all, one of a kind! For ideas, take a look at this driftwood-like bench by Millwood Pines. It doesn’t get much more rustic than using logs as building materials!
Keep Things Vibrant With Colorful Cushions
Forever Patio Sunbrella Cushions
For an upbeat, beachy seating area, go with bright, saturated cushions. These sunbrella cushions by Forever Patio come in more than 16 punchy colors, with a variety of oranges, greens and blues available. Our shopping team particularly likes Canvas Tangerine; it’s reminiscent of a day out on the sand sipping cocktails and wearing sunhats. Colorful upholstery can make your fire pit area feel fun and inviting, even on particularly cold evenings.
Kick Your Feet Up With a Hammock Chair
Bungalow Rose Travis Hammock
A hammock chair adds a flair of fun to any seating space. Comfortable and perfect for warm-weather days, the classic rope-knit hammock style is a token of comfort. This single-person hammock chair by Bungalow Rose would create the perfect space for reading outdoors or simply enjoying your outdoor fireplace. Made from soft-spun polyester, it’s durable and sturdy yet flexible. Plus, it’s machine-washable! Here are more of the best hammocks for your backyard.
Say Yes to Versatility with an Accent Stool
AllModern Neil Concrete Accent Stool
The forest isn’t quite your vibe? How about something more industrial? If you’re looking for durable fire pit seating ideas, you can’t get much tougher than concrete. This accent stool has an hourglass shape and is made from a mixture of high-quality concrete and fiber mix to give it a faux terrazzo finish. Choose from gray, black or terracotta. “This stool can be used as a moveable seating option or a side table, plus, it will blend with almost any decor,” Singleton says. For the rest of your patio setup, learn how to protect outdoor furniture.
Create a Cocoon with an Egg Chair
Highland Dunes Wellow Baytree Egg Chair
This cute and comfy rattan egg chair with a white seat, back and side cushions, is a great place to sink into while enjoying time around the fire pit with family. Set on a metal base for extra stability and sturdiness, when cool nights turn too cold, bring the chair indoors—it creates a cozy reading corner in the living room when paired with a bookcase.
Create Clean Lines with the Solo Stove Chair
Solo Stove Adirondack Chair
You can’t beat the look of a classic Adirondack chair, unless, that is, it has a modern twist. This new-age Adirondack chair from Solo Stove is the perfect accessory when you want to put the focus on the fire pit, rather than the seating, says Singleton. “The clean lines of this contemporary style will also pair well with more rectilinear-shaped fire pits and furnishings,” she continues.
Crafted with lightweight, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in white or gray, the chair has a low-profile and ergonomic design for optimal comfort. In fact, you could find yourself spending the whole summer and fall in this chair! Trust us, we tested the Solo Stove Adirondack chair for ourselves.
Add Storage Space with Functional Furniture
Peak Home Furnishing Rattan Storage Bench
For smaller spaces, multifunctional furniture is key to keeping the area comfortable and clutter-free. Furniture with hidden storage space, such as beneath the seat of a chair or in a hidden compartment in a center or side table, allows you to keep items conveniently located but out of sight.
This flip-top rattan bench by Peak Home Furnishing features ample storage space beneath the seat cushion, allowing you to maximize your space. The bench is constructed of all-weather, UV-resistant wicker, while the cushion is upholstered in fade-resistant material.
Play Up the Neutrals with an Outdoor Set
Safavieh Ozark Wash 4 Piece Set
Often, the simplest solution is the best. This four-piece outdoor set is all you need to make your fire pit seating area an inviting gathering spot. Consisting of a love seat, two chairs and a table, the durable grouping comes with seat cushions, making it especially ideal when patio space is tight. When your cushions get stained or dirty, read our guide on how to clean cushions.
“The nontraditional color is a nice way to make the space feel cozy, and because of the more monochromatic shade, you can introduce pops of color by adding pillows and throws,” says Singleton.
Go Traditional with a Wooden Recliner
Astola Teak Recliner Lounge Chair
This handsome teak recliner is an outstanding option to nestle among a cottage-style garden or other traditional landscape design settings. Built for year-round enjoyment, it has hand-carved details and is constructed from the highest quality maritime-grade teak that’s kiln-dried to prevent warping, splitting, cracking and developing mold and mildew. The chair manually reclines to a flat position, so it’s ideal for afternoon naps by the fire.
Invite the Whole Neighborhood With a Large Sectional
West Elm Portside Outdoor Sectional
Do you have a large family, or are you a social butterfly who’s friends with the entire neighborhood? Either way, a large outdoor sectional sofa might be the right seating idea for your outdoor fire pit.
The build-your-own Portside outdoor sectional from West Elm is an excellent option for those looking to entertain. You can add as many seats as you’d like, so you can customize this outdoor couch to meet your exact needs. It features a weathered wood finish and plush cushions. It also has a built-in ledge to hold drinks, so it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Looking for an indoor sectional too? We rounded up the best sectionals for your living room.
Extend Your Indoor Space with Swivel Seats
Casainc Aluminum Swivel Chairs
Singleton likes this rotating patio chair set, a smart backyard design idea for smaller patio spaces. By placing this pair of swivel patio chairs next to the fire pit, you’ll not only have better back support, but you’ll be free to turn back and forth. This makes it easy to chat even when people are moving around. “The dark aluminum style ties in well with iron trellises for climbing vines and colorful container plantings,” she says.
Serve Up Goodies with a Dining Sectional
Better Homes & Gardens Brookbury 5-Piece Dining Sectional Set
Instead of chairs for fire pit entertaining, why not go with this five-piece wicker dining sectional instead? Best for those who like to entertain, “You can host a lot of guests or a large family with the ottomans serving as versatile pieces to move around for additional seating and/or serving space,” Singleton explains. It even comes with a table for dining alfresco in front of the backyard bonfire. There’s plenty of room for appetizers, game-day goodies, or a full meal. While you’re at it, check out these gorgeous outdoor kitchens.
Go Old World With Tree Stump Stools
Welland Tree Stump Stools
If you’re chasing an old-world, garden-fairy, magical-forest vibe, tree stump stools would make a great addition to your fire pit seating area. Simple but stunning, this seating option brings fairytales to life. In fact, you can decorate with tree stumps throughout your home and garden.
Welland tree stump stools are made from reclaimed cedarwood and have a natural lacquer finish that’s easy to care for. They’re 14 inches high, making them suitable to use as a low stool, side or end table, or footrest. Because they’re made from reclaimed wood, no two stools are exactly alike, so these stools will bring a natural aesthetic to your seating area.
Live Large with a U-Shaped Sofa Set
Christopher Knight Home Acacia Wood Sectional Sofa Set
This 12-piece acacia wood set has enough room for ten people to sit comfortably around a larger fire pit. Try arranging the seats in different ways to find what works for you and your group. Singleton advises incorporating accent pillows, side tables and potted plants into this space. If styled correctly, she says the set can look very high-end and custom. The best part? A gas fire pit is included!
Save Space With Foldable Furniture
Eila Fold and Store Dining Set
If you have a smaller backyard, you may wish to stow away your outdoor furniture when not in use, so that your pets can have more room to romp, or so you can set up yard games or do yard work. If that’s the case for you, consider foldable or stackable outdoor furniture, such as this seven-piece foldable eucalyptus outdoor dining set.
This set from Eilaf is built entirely from eucalyptus wood and comes with six chairs and an oval table, all in a stunning natural wood with a satin finish and stainless steel hardware. The chairs fold up and store beneath the table, and the sides of the table fold down. This creates a sleek, small counter that you can move as needed, thanks to the transport wheels.
Go Unique with a Plush Papasan
Torrey Wicker Papasan Chair
This charming papasan chair with a plush seat and two back cushions envelop you in comfort. Sitting in one is like getting a big hug. The chair’s rounded shape pairs well with a round fire pit—just place a few around the flames and snuggle in. Singleton thinks this piece has a very luxe feel, even though it’s durable and low-maintenance. “It’s a great option for lounging on a patio, gathering around an outdoor fireplace or relaxing by the pool,” she shares.
Go Green With a Garden Bench
Erika Pine Wood Outdoor Planter Bench
Do you love to garden? For a plant-centric fire pit seating area, add an outdoor bench with built-in planters to add some greenery to your space. This is an especially good idea if you live in a more arid climate where yards tend to be dominated by rocky features rather than plant life.
This garden bench, available at Walmart, features a classic slatted wood design, but the seating area is bookended by square planters. Since the planters are teak wood, it’s recommended to place a potted plant in each one, rather than fill the planters with potting soil. Add even more delight to your yard bench by planting flowers that attract hummingbirds.
Add a Pop of Color with Rocking Chairs
SUNCROWN Outdoor Rocking Bistro Set
This affordable three-piece bistro rocking chair set brings charm and comfort to your fire pit area. The seats are an updated version of the traditional rocking chair, and have thick seat cushions of layered polyester wrapped in a thick foam core. The colorful upholstery would pair amazingly with a concrete fire pit with a light wash, or in a seating area that contains ample foliage for a tropical scene. Top it off with a tempered glass side table to hold all your snacks and drinks, and you’re set!
Make Seating Easy with a Foldable Chair
CleverMade Tamarack Folding Chair
When fire pit season is over (is it really ever over?), it’s nice to have an option that easily stores away. This ultra-modern folding wooden chair is more attractive than plastic or metal, yet just as convenient. Place a blanket over the back or include seat cushions for added comfort. “Folding chairs are excellent options for extra seating,” Singleton says. “The natural material is a beautiful addition to stone and concrete patios, as well as masonry fire pit spaces.”
Embrace the Lounge Area with an Outdoor Sofa
Better Homes & Gardens Delahey Folding Sofa
Crafted of a gray wooden frame, this folding outdoor sofa placed in front of the fire offers ample space for two to cuddle up. Each of the arms folds down, allowing room to stretch out, and the four detachable polyester-filled cushions are easy to remove for cleaning and storing in the off-season. Singleton recommends pairing the love seat with transitional pieces, such as coordinating end tables, rugs and lamps, to create an inviting outdoor living space.
O’Grady says that incorporating aesthetically pleasing elements that echo the interior design style of the house can make the outdoor space feel like an extension of the living area, enticing people to wander out and enjoy the open air, which makes an outdoor sofa an excellent choice.
Play Up the Nostalgia with Tulip Chairs
Crosley Tulip Retro Armchair Set
Back in the limelight, these playful tulip chairs metal chairs are just the thing for anyone who loves all things vintage. The charming scalloped chairs come in a pair and feature sturdy, yet flexible, steel construction coated in a durable non-toxic, powder-coated finish to resist rust and fading. Choose from a rainbow of retro colors, such as aqua, pink and white.
Cuddle Up With an Oversized Chair
Montane Oversized Swivel Chair
During gatherings, swivel chairs make it easier to make conversation among the group while people are up and about. The round silhouettes are inviting and warm, too, creating an air of charm. The Montane oversized all-weather wicker swivel chair from World Market features a handwoven resin wicker frame that’s UV- and fade-resistant, and easy to clean. Oversized, there’s room to cuddle on this chair, or just spread out and enjoy the extra space. Either way, your guests will love that they can swivel to keep the convo going as you head inside for more snacks.
Establish a Beach Theme with a Bean Bag Chair
Jaxx Juniper Outdoor Bean Bag Patio Chair
This extra-squishy navy cabana-striped bean bag chair is typically something you might see poolside or at the beach, but why limit yourself? Get fully relaxed in front of the fire—more like swaddled—thanks to the inner bead filling that conforms to your body, cradling you in support and comfort as you while away the hours toasting marshmallows while backyard camping.
What to Look for When Buying Outdoor Fire Pit Seating
Since there are so many options for outdoor fire pit seating, the most important thing to consider when looking for some new pieces to buy is what will work best for you and your family or guests. Take into account how much space you have, the terrain your seating will be on, the climate you live in and how many people you need to fit around the fire.
“Creating inviting outdoor fire pit areas is all about combining comfort, style, warmth and functionality,” says Thomas Matthew, director at Matthew Kitchens & Furniture. “Firstly, choosing weatherproof and comfortable furniture pieces can greatly elevate the welcoming aura of the space. Pillows, cushions and throws can add a touch of coziness, warmth and texture.”
Additionally, consider other elements that already exist in your space. Do you have a lot of plants, fairy lights, or other designs in place already? This will affect what kind of outdoor seating will look great in the space, Matthew says.
If you tend to host large gatherings, a sectional or bench is a good fit. If it’s typically just you and your spouse roasting s’mores next to the fire then a pair of Adirondack or rocking chairs might be the way to go. An option that folds up for easy storage or is a durable metal would be good for those with colder winter seasons who pack up their outdoor furniture to prep for ice, snow and freezing temperatures. Whereas a nice finished wood or light-colored wicker is a good choice for those in warmer, dryer climates.
Why You Should Trust Us
Toni DeBella has covered many topics for Family Handyman and is an expert when it comes to reviewing products. She knows how to gather new items that the FHM audience will love, taking into account price, durability and customer reviews. To give her a leg up in the trends of outdoor furniture, DeBella consulted Cate Singleton, director of design at Tilly, a company that creates custom landscape and outdoor design plans for clients. Amanda Capritto, Family Handyman contributor, is a professional commerce writer and gear reviewer, and has more than seven years of experience writing shopping content. She consulted with Matthew O’Grady, director at Thomas Matthew Kitchens & Furniture, and expert in home furnishings and remodeling.
How We Found the Best Outdoor Fire Pit Seating
In addition to consulting with a professional designer, we consulted with additional experts in the home decor, furnishings and interior design spaces to help us identify trusted brands known just as much for quality as they are for style. We also heavily researched these picks and dove deep into real-world customer reviews to see how the furniture stands up over time.
FAQ
How do you make a fire pit seating area?
The first step in this process is creating an open space for a fire pit in your backyard or on your patio. Add some seating options from the list above and you’ve got yourself a cozy and comfortable area to gather around the fire. Make sure that the ground under and around the fire pit is level and that there’s open space above for the smoke and flames to safely disperse. Always make sure you follow basic fire pit safety guides. Then, add as much or as little seating as desired and enjoy the warmth.
What is the best material for outdoor fire pit seating?
As mentioned earlier, this really depends on personal preference as well as the type of climate you’re in. You want something that is going to withstand the weather while still being comfortable. The options listed here include metal, wicker, wood and concrete. Choose a material that works and then add cushions and pillows for comfort and a pop of color.
How far should your seating be from the fire?
“It’s crucial to place the fire pit in an open area, away from trees, overhanging branches, arbors or any enclosed or covered spaces to prevent fire hazards,” says O’Grady. “Seating should be placed at a safe distance from the pit, usually a minimum of three feet. Flame-resistant materials should be used where possible, especially when choosing accessories or furnishings for the area. If tables will be placed near the fire pit, ensure they are sturdy and resistant to extreme heat, or avoid placing them directly next to the fire pit.”
As an added precaution, make sure you aren’t wearing loose clothing or have a long blanket wrapped around you that could get close to the flames or sparks coming from the fire. If you have seating that can easily be moved around, try to avoid sitting with the wind blowing in your face so you don’t inhale smoke. Once your fire pit and seating is safely set up, use one of these ways to light a fire.
Originally Published: July 09, 2021
