Create Clean Lines with the Solo Stove Chair
You can’t beat the look of a classic Adirondack chair, unless, that is, it has a modern twist. This up-to-date 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 optimum 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.
Play Up the Neutrals with an Outdoor 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, which comes with the seat cushions, it’s especially ideal when patio space is tight.
“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.
Open the Conversation with a Round 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.
Go Traditional with a Wooden Recliner
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.
Extend Your Indoor Space with Swivel Seats
Singleton likes the rotating feature of this set, which makes it a smart pick 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 for optimum chatting and small-group socializing. “The dark aluminum style ties in well with iron trellises for climbing vines and colorful container plantings,” she says.
Get the Party Started with a Dining Sectional
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.
Say Yes to Versatility with an Accent Stool
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.
Live Large with a Round Wicker Set
This rounded wicker set has enough room for eight people to sit comfortably around a larger fire pit. Try arranging the quarter seats in different ways (two half-circle seats are shown here)—you decide what works best for you. 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, as well as a stylish table to hide the propane tank.
Go Unique with a Plush Papasan
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.
Add a Splash of Color with Rocking Chairs
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. 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
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.”
Create a Cocoon with an Egg Chair
This cute and comfy oversized rattan egg chair with a white seat, back and side cushions, give little ones a place to sink into when 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 makes a fun addition to a playroom and creates a cozy reading corner in a kid’s room.
Embrace the Lounge Area with an Outdoor 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.
Play Up the Nostalgia with Tulip Chairs
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.
Establish a Beach Theme with a Bean Bag 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 filing that conforms to your body, cradling you in support and comfort as you while away the hours toasting marshmallows or grilling hot dogs.
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.
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.
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. 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?
All seating should be about four feet away from 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.