Fire Pit vs Fire Bowl vs Outdoor Fireplace: The Complete 2025 Buyer's Guide

Planning to add warmth, ambiance, and a gathering spot to your outdoor space? You're facing one of the most common dilemmas in outdoor living: choosing between a fire pit, fire bowl, or outdoor fireplace. Fire pits offer 360-degree social gathering, fire bowls provide portable convenience and style, while outdoor fireplaces create formal architectural statements with built-in smoke management. Each serves different needs, budgets, and entertaining styles.

With outdoor fire features becoming essential elements in modern landscape design, understanding the distinctions between these options ensures you make the right investment for your space, lifestyle, and long-term enjoyment. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about fire pits, fire bowls, and outdoor fireplaces to help you choose the perfect outdoor fire feature for your home.

What Are Fire Pits, Fire Bowls, and Outdoor Fireplaces?

Before diving into comparisons, let's establish clear definitions for each type of outdoor fire feature.

Fire Pits: The Social Circle

A fire pit is an open, typically circular or square depression designed to contain a controlled fire for warmth, cooking, and ambiance. Fire pits can be permanent installations built into patios or temporary portable units that can be moved as needed. They range from simple metal bowls to elaborate stone constructions integrated into outdoor living spaces.

Fire pits are characterized by their open design that allows people to gather around them in a complete circle, creating an inclusive social atmosphere similar to a traditional campfire. Most fire pits burn wood, though gas-powered versions have become increasingly popular for convenience and clean burning.

Key Characteristics:

• Open, circular or square design

• 360-degree access and viewing

• Social gathering focal point

• Available in portable and permanent options

• Wood-burning or gas-fueled

Fire Bowls: The Portable Statement

A fire bowl is a standalone, bowl-shaped fire feature designed for portability and visual appeal, typically elevated on legs or a pedestal base. Fire bowls emphasize aesthetic design and mobility, making them ideal for homeowners who want flexibility in their outdoor arrangements or have smaller spaces.

Fire bowls often feature decorative elements and can serve as sculptural pieces even when not in use. They're generally smaller than fire pits and focus more on ambiance than large group gatherings, though they still provide meaningful warmth and atmosphere.

Key Characteristics:

• Bowl-shaped design with elevated base

• Portable and repositionable

• Emphasis on aesthetic appeal

• Typically smaller scale than fire pits

• Often used as decorative focal points

Outdoor Fireplaces: The Architectural Statement

An outdoor fireplace is a permanent structure featuring an enclosed firebox, chimney, and often a mantel, designed to replicate the experience of an indoor fireplace in an outdoor setting. Outdoor fireplaces are built installations that become integral parts of outdoor living spaces and landscape architecture.

Unlike fire pits and bowls, outdoor fireplaces direct heat and viewing primarily toward one side, creating a more formal seating arrangement. The enclosed design with chimney draws smoke up and away from the seating area, making them ideal for covered patios and areas where smoke management is important.

Key Characteristics:

• Permanent architectural structure

• Enclosed firebox with chimney

• Directional heat and viewing

• Smoke management system

• Often includes mantel and hearth

• Formal seating arrangement

Detailed Comparison: Fire Pit vs Fire Bowl vs Outdoor Fireplace

Size and Space Requirements

Fire Pits: Fire pits typically range from 30 inches to 60 inches in diameter for round models, or equivalent square footage for rectangular designs. The total space requirement includes the fire pit itself plus a safe perimeter of 6-10 feet for seating and safety clearance.

• Small fire pits: 30-36 inches (accommodate 4-6 people)

• Medium fire pits: 42-48 inches (accommodate 6-8 people)

• Large fire pits: 54+ inches (accommodate 8-12 people)

• Total space needed: 15-20 feet diameter including safety clearance

Fire Bowls: Fire bowls are generally more compact, with most models ranging from 24-40 inches in diameter. Their elevated design and smaller scale make them suitable for tighter spaces like small patios, decks, or urban outdoor areas.

• Typical size range: 24-40 inches in diameter

• Height: Usually 24-30 inches including base

• Total space needed: 10-12 feet diameter including safety clearance

• Best for: Smaller groups of 3-6 people

Outdoor Fireplaces: Outdoor fireplaces are the largest option, typically measuring 4-8 feet wide and requiring substantial depth for proper construction and safety clearance. They need significant space not just for the structure itself but for appropriate seating arrangements.

• Typical dimensions: 4-8 feet wide, 6-10 feet tall

• Depth requirement: 3-5 feet for structure plus clearance

• Total space needed: 12-15 feet width, 8-12 feet depth

• Best for: Large patios and dedicated outdoor rooms

Heat Output and Distribution

Fire Pits: Fire pits provide radiant heat in all directions, making them excellent for warming multiple people simultaneously. The open design allows heat to disperse evenly around the perimeter, though wind can affect heat distribution and smoke direction.

• Heat distribution: 360-degree radiant heat

• Effective warming radius: 6-8 feet from fire pit edge

• Heat intensity: High, especially with wood burning

• Wind sensitivity: Moderate to high

Fire Bowls: Fire bowls offer more controlled heat output due to their smaller size and elevated design. While they provide less total heat than larger fire pits, the concentrated flame can be very effective for smaller groups and creates excellent ambiance.

• Heat distribution: 360-degree but more concentrated

• Effective warming radius: 4-6 feet from bowl edge

• Heat intensity: Moderate, focused on ambiance

• Wind sensitivity: Moderate due to elevated design

Outdoor Fireplaces: Outdoor fireplaces provide directional heat that's concentrated toward the seating area in front of the fireplace. The enclosed design and chimney create efficient heat reflection and better heat retention than open fire features.

• Heat distribution: Directional, focused forward

• Effective warming area: 8-12 feet in front of fireplace

• Heat intensity: High and well-directed

• Wind sensitivity: Low due to enclosed design and chimney

Installation Requirements and Timeline

Fire Pits: Installation requirements vary dramatically between portable and permanent fire pits. Portable units require minimal setup, while custom permanent installations can take several days and require professional construction.

• Portable fire pits: 15 minutes to 2 hours setup

• Permanent fire pits: 2-5 days professional installation

• Permits: May be required for permanent installations

• Foundation: Level surface for portable, concrete pad for permanent

• Utility connections: Gas line if applicable

Fire Bowls: Fire bowls offer the quickest and easiest installation of all fire feature options. Most are designed for immediate use with minimal assembly required.

• Typical setup time: 15-30 minutes

• Assembly: Usually minimal, often pre-assembled

• Foundation: Any level, stable surface

• Permits: Rarely required

• Professional installation: Not typically necessary

Outdoor Fireplaces: Outdoor fireplaces require the most extensive installation process, involving foundation work, construction, and often utility connections. This is always a professional installation requiring permits and inspections.

• Installation timeline: 1-3 weeks depending on complexity

• Professional requirement: Always requires licensed contractors

• Permits: Required in most jurisdictions

• Foundation: Concrete foundation required

• Utility connections: Gas line, electrical if applicable

Cost Comparison Guide

Fire Pits: Fire pit costs vary enormously based on materials, size, and installation complexity. The range extends from budget portable options to luxury custom installations.

• Portable fire pits: $150-$2,000

• DIY permanent fire pits: $500-$3,000

• Professional permanent installation: $2,000-$10,000

• Luxury custom fire pits: $8,000-$25,000+

• Annual operating costs: $200-$800 (wood/gas)

Fire Bowls: Fire bowls generally represent the most budget-friendly entry point into outdoor fire features, with most options falling into accessible price ranges.

• Basic fire bowls: $100-$800

• Designer fire bowls: $500-$2,500

• Premium/artistic fire bowls: $1,500-$5,000

• Installation costs: $0-$200 (minimal)

• Annual operating costs: $100-$400 (fuel)

Outdoor Fireplaces: Outdoor fireplaces require the highest initial investment but can add significant property value and create substantial outdoor living enhancement.

• Prefab outdoor fireplaces: $3,000-$8,000

• Custom outdoor fireplaces: $8,000-$25,000

• Luxury outdoor fireplaces: $20,000-$50,000+

• Installation costs: $3,000-$15,000

• Annual operating costs: $300-$1,200

Fuel Options and Considerations

Wood-Burning Options: All three fire feature types can burn wood, providing the traditional crackling fire experience with natural aromas and the ability to cook over the flames.

Pros:

• Authentic fire experience with sounds and smells

• Lower operating costs if wood is readily available

• Excellent for cooking and roasting

• Higher heat output

Cons:

• Requires wood storage and preparation

• Produces smoke and sparks

• More maintenance and cleanup required

• Subject to local burning restrictions

Gas-Powered Options: Natural gas and propane options are available for all fire feature types, offering convenience and clean burning without smoke or sparks.

Pros:

• Instant ignition and easy control

• No smoke, sparks, or ash

• Consistent, controllable flame

• Lower maintenance requirements

• Often permitted during fire bans

Cons:

• Higher initial installation costs for gas lines

• Less authentic fire experience

• Limited cooking capability

• Ongoing fuel costs for propane

Alternative Fuels: Some fire features can burn alternative fuels like ethanol or gel fuels, offering clean burning with easy setup.

Pros:

• Very clean burning

• No gas line or wood storage required

• Can be used indoors and outdoors

• Minimal installation requirements

Cons:

• Higher per-hour operating costs

• Limited heat output

• Less traditional fire experience

• Fuel availability considerations

Safety Considerations and Requirements

General Safety Requirements: All outdoor fire features require attention to safety considerations including placement, clearances, and local regulations.

Fire Pit Safety:

• Minimum 10-foot clearance from structures

• Level, non-combustible surface required

• Screen or spark arrestor recommended for wood burning

• Water or sand for extinguishing nearby

• Clear overhead space (no low branches)

Fire Bowl Safety:

• Stable, level placement essential due to elevated design

• Adequate clearance from furniture and structures

• Wind consideration due to open flame

• Proper base material (stone, concrete, or metal)

• Easy access for monitoring and extinguishing

Outdoor Fireplace Safety:

• Professional installation ensures proper clearances

• Chimney height requirements for draft and safety

• Spark screen at chimney top

• Proper foundation and structural support

• Regular chimney cleaning and inspection

Maintenance Requirements

Fire Pits: Maintenance varies significantly between portable and permanent fire pits, with material choice affecting long-term care requirements.

Regular Maintenance:

• Remove ash and debris after each use

• Cover or store portable units when not in use

• Clean grates and screens regularly

• Inspect for rust or damage

Seasonal Maintenance:

• Deep cleaning and inspection

• Touch-up paint or protective coatings

• Check gas connections if applicable

• Winterization in cold climates

Fire Bowls: Fire bowls generally require the least maintenance of all fire feature options due to their simple design and portable nature.

Regular Maintenance:

• Empty ash and clean bowl after use

• Wipe down exterior surfaces

• Check stability of base and connections

Seasonal Maintenance:

• Store indoors during harsh weather if possible

• Apply protective treatments to metal surfaces

• Inspect for wear or damage

Outdoor Fireplaces: Outdoor fireplaces require the most comprehensive maintenance due to their complex construction and permanent installation.

Regular Maintenance:

• Remove ash from firebox

• Clean glass doors if present

• Check damper operation

• Clear debris from chimney cap

Annual Maintenance:

• Professional chimney inspection and cleaning

• Inspect mortar and structural elements

• Check and seal any cracks

• Service gas components if applicable

When to Choose Each Type of Fire Feature

Choose a Fire Pit When:

You prioritize social interaction and group gatherings. Fire pits excel at creating inclusive environments where everyone can participate equally in the fire experience. The 360-degree access means no one sits with their back to the fire, and conversation flows naturally around the circle.

You want cooking capabilities. Fire pits offer the best platform for outdoor cooking, from roasting marshmallows and hot dogs to more elaborate campfire cooking. The open design and ability to add grates makes food preparation easy and enjoyable.

Budget is a primary consideration. Fire pits offer the widest range of price points, including very affordable portable options that still provide excellent fire experiences. You can start with a basic model and upgrade later.

You have adequate space for safe installation. Fire pits work best when you have sufficient room for the unit plus safe seating distance. If you have a large patio or yard, a fire pit can become the central gathering point.

You enjoy the traditional campfire experience. For those who love the authentic crackling, popping, and smoky aroma of wood fires, fire pits deliver the most traditional fire experience.

Choose a Fire Bowl When:

Portability and flexibility are important. Fire bowls shine when you want the ability to move your fire feature to different locations, whether around your property or for camping and outdoor adventures.

You have limited space or a small patio. Fire bowls require less total space than fire pits while still providing meaningful warmth and ambiance. They're perfect for urban patios, small decks, or intimate gathering spaces.

Aesthetic appeal is a priority. Fire bowls often feature more decorative designs and can serve as attractive garden elements even when not in use. They function as both functional fire features and artistic focal points.

You prefer intimate gatherings. Fire bowls naturally accommodate smaller groups and create cozy atmospheres perfect for couples or small family gatherings. The scale encourages closer, more intimate conversations.

Quick setup is essential. Fire bowls typically require the least setup time and can be ready for use almost immediately. Perfect for spontaneous gatherings or when you want fire without the commitment.

Choose an Outdoor Fireplace When:

You want a permanent architectural feature. Outdoor fireplaces become integral parts of your home's architecture and landscape design, adding substantial visual impact and property value.

Smoke management is crucial. The enclosed design and chimney system of outdoor fireplaces effectively manages smoke, making them ideal for covered patios, close neighbors, or areas where smoke direction matters.

You prefer formal entertaining. Outdoor fireplaces create elegant, sophisticated atmospheres perfect for dinner parties and formal gatherings. They complement upscale outdoor furniture and dining areas.

Weather protection is needed. Outdoor fireplaces can be integrated with covered patios, pavilions, or outdoor rooms, allowing fire enjoyment even during light rain or snow.

You want maximum property value impact. Well-designed outdoor fireplaces typically add more property value than other fire features due to their permanent nature and architectural integration.

Next-Generation Outdoor Fireplaces: The ModFire Innovation

While traditional fire pits, fire bowls, and outdoor fireplaces each serve specific needs, traditional outdoor fireplaces face significant limitations in setup time, portability, and installation complexity. Next-generation designs like ModFire have revolutionized the outdoor fireplace category with modern solutions that address these traditional limitations.

Combining the Best of All Worlds

ModFire's next-generation outdoor fireplaces represent a revolutionary approach that combines:

• Fire pit social appeal with 360-degree viewing and gathering capability

• Fire bowl portability with quick 15-minute setup using QuickLux technology

• Traditional fireplace sophistication with contemporary design and weather resistance

This innovation addresses common frustrations with traditional outdoor fireplaces: extensive construction requirements, permanent installation limitations, and weather-dependent setup timelines.

The 15-Minute Revolution

Traditional installation timelines vs. ModFire QuickLux technology:

• Traditional permanent fire pits: 2-5 days professional installation

• Traditional outdoor fireplaces: 1-3 weeks construction timeline

• ModFire modern fireplaces: 15 minutes setup time

This dramatic difference in installation time means you can enjoy sophisticated outdoor fire features without construction disruption, permit delays, or weather-dependent installation schedules.

Multi-Fuel Flexibility

Unlike traditional fire features that typically commit you to one fuel type, ModFire offers multiple fuel compatibility within the same design platform:

• Natural gas for instant, controllable heat

• Propane for portability and areas without gas lines

• Wood burning for traditional fire experience

• Ethanol for clean burning and indoor/outdoor versatility

Weather-Resistant Modern Design

ModFire products address the durability concerns of portable fire features while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of contemporary design:

• Weather-resistant construction handles diverse climates

• Clean, contemporary lines complement modern architecture

• Premium finishes including weathered steel and copper patina

• Architectural integration without permanent installation

Addressing Common Fire Feature Limitations

Traditional Fire Pit Problems ModFire Solves:

• Long installation timelines → 15-minute setup

• Permanent placement limitations → Portable yet substantial

• Limited fuel options → Multi-fuel compatibility

• Maintenance complexity → Simple, durable construction

Traditional Fire Bowl Problems ModFire Solves:

• Limited heat output → Substantial warmth generation

• Lightweight construction concerns → Robust yet moveable design

• Basic aesthetic options → Award-winning contemporary styling

• Size limitations → Full-scale options available

Traditional Outdoor Fireplace Problems ModFire Solves:

• Extensive construction requirements → Quick assembly

• Permit and inspection delays → No permits needed for most models

• Weather-dependent installation → Set up regardless of conditions

• Single-location limitation → Relocatable for different seasons

Advanced Considerations for Your Decision

Climate and Regional Factors

Cold Climate Considerations: In regions with harsh winters, fire features must withstand freeze-thaw cycles and potential snow loading. Outdoor fireplaces typically handle cold weather best due to their substantial construction, while portable options should be stored in protected areas.

Hot Climate Considerations: Desert and consistently hot climates favor gas-powered options that can be controlled precisely and don't add excessive heat during already warm periods. Heat retention becomes less important than quick heat when needed.

Wet Climate Considerations: Areas with frequent rain or high humidity need fire features with excellent weather resistance and quick-drying capabilities. Covered installation options become more valuable in consistently wet climates.

Property Value Impact

Outdoor Fireplaces: Typically add $5,000-$15,000 in property value Permanent Fire Pits: Usually add $2,000-$8,000 in property value
Portable Fire Features: Generally don't directly impact property value but enhance lifestyle appeal

Homeowner Association and Local Regulations

Before selecting any fire feature, research local regulations including:

• Setback requirements from property lines and structures

• Permit requirements for permanent installations

• Burn ban policies that may restrict wood-burning options

• HOA restrictions on fire feature types and placement

• Insurance implications for different fire feature categories

Long-Term Lifestyle Considerations

Growing Families: Consider how your entertaining needs may change over time. Fire pits accommodate expanding social circles better than fire bowls.

Aging in Place: Outdoor fireplaces with built-in seating and easy access may become more appealing over time.

Mobility Plans: If you might move within 5-10 years, portable options retain their value better than permanent installations.

Making Your Final Decision

Decision Framework Questions

1. How many people do you typically entertain outdoors?
   

• 2-4 people: Fire bowl or small fire pit

• 5-8 people: Medium fire pit or outdoor fireplace

• 9+ people: Large fire pit or substantial outdoor fireplace

2. What's your available outdoor space?
   

• Small patio/deck: Fire bowl

• Medium yard/patio: Fire pit or compact outdoor fireplace

• Large outdoor area: Any option, size based on needs

3. What's your installation timeline preference?
   

• Immediate use: Fire bowl or portable fire pit

• Weekend project: DIY fire pit

• Major improvement: Outdoor fireplace

4. What's your budget range?
   

• Under $1,000: Fire bowl or basic fire pit

• $1,000-$5,000: Quality fire pit or prefab outdoor fireplace

• $5,000+: Custom installations or premium options

5. How important is portability?
   

   • Essential: Fire bowl or portable fire pit

   • Somewhat important: Innovative options like ModFire

   • Not important: Permanent installation

The ModFire Advantage Summary

For homeowners who want the benefits of traditional outdoor fireplaces without the typical limitations, ModFire's next-generation designs offer:

• Quick Setup: 15 minutes vs. days or weeks • Portability: Relocatable vs. permanent • Substantial Heat: Full-size capability vs. limited fire bowl output • Modern Design: Award-winning aesthetics vs. basic functionality • Multi-Fuel Options: Gas, wood, propane, ethanol compatibility • Weather Resistance: Year-round durability in all climates • No Permits Required: For most models and installations

Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Fire Feature

The decision between fire pits, fire bowls, and outdoor fireplaces ultimately depends on your specific needs, space, budget, and lifestyle preferences. Each category offers distinct advantages:

Fire pits excel at social gatherings and traditional fire experiences but require more space and installation time for permanent versions.

Fire bowls provide maximum portability and aesthetic appeal while working well in smaller spaces but with limited heat output.

Outdoor fireplaces create sophisticated architectural statements with excellent smoke management but require significant investment and permanent installation.

Modern innovations like ModFire offer a fourth category that combines the best aspects of all three traditional options while addressing common limitations through quick setup, portability, and contemporary design.

Consider your primary use cases, space constraints, budget, and long-term plans when making your decision. Remember that the best fire feature is the one you'll actually use and enjoy for years to come.

Whether you choose a traditional fire pit for authentic campfire experiences, a stylish fire bowl for intimate gatherings, a sophisticated outdoor fireplace for formal entertaining, or an innovative modern solution that transcends traditional categories, adding a fire feature to your outdoor space will enhance your property and extend your outdoor living season significantly.

The warmth, ambiance, and gathering power of outdoor fire creates lasting memories and transforms ordinary evenings into special occasions. Choose the option that best fits your vision for outdoor living, and start enjoying the magic of fire in your own backyard.

Ready to Explore Your Fire Feature Options?

If you're interested in learning more about innovative fire feature solutions that combine the best aspects of traditional categories, explore ModFire's collection of modern outdoor fireplaces. With 15-minute QuickLux installation, multiple fuel options, and award-winning contemporary design, ModFire offers a unique alternative to traditional fire pits, fire bowls, and outdoor fireplaces.

Contact ModFire for a free consultation:

Phone: 1-855-MODFIRE

Email: info@modfire.com

Available in Arizona and shipping anywhere in the United States and Canada. For international shipping, please contact us. Visit https://modfire.com/terms-and-conditions for information about shipping and installation.

Say Hello to our Modern Naturals Collection

Introducing the modern naturals collection by Modfire. Designs inspired by the patterns of nature, cultural shapes and sacred geometry. Reimagined color schemes, that echo palette of the outdoors. It’s 70s style meets Boho. With fresh designs like Branch, Apache and Flora, this new collection will bring harmony to your outdoor space. Pre- Sale Special Order Only! Contact brandon@modfire.com

The Modhauler gets a makeover.

When we first started Modfire is was always a dream to have a cool, Modfire branded , delivery truck. Well it only took 11 years but the results have been worth the wait. We started with a 1996 Isuzu NPR box truck that was pretty ugly to start with but with Modfire icon artwork done by the Uber talented Jon Arvizu of Trapdoor Studios and creative layout by the genius mind of Matt Fischer of Provoke Creative there was a high probability that this thing would be epic well, it sure as hell is. Say hello to the Modhauler, Also a hinge thank you to AZ Wrap pros for doing such an incredible job! It takes a village to make good things happen. I’m so grateful to all involved to bring this vision to life!

Palm Springs

This ModHauler

Tiki Oasis AZ 2022

Well after a plandemic inspired shutdown of all cool things Tiki, the magic that is Tiki Oasis AZ came back better than ever! Hosted at the mid-century marvel, the Valley Ho hotel, It was a spectacle of rum soaked soirées and Polynesian inspired clothing from a faraway time. Modfire was on point and we had an amazing outpouring of love for our fab fireplaces. We introduced the Mini-Tiki an ethanol fueled fire feature, and it was a huge hit. We are going to make the journey this year to the big Tiki Oasis in San Diego and look forward to more adventures.

Introducing the Retrofire

Every year we launch a new design, of course covid put that on hold last year, thank covid. So, this years design had to be extra special and I think this is one of our most impressive designs yet. The Retrofire is just stunning in person. It’s 40” diameter is generous in proportion but delicate to behold. The radial series of sweeping mid- century spires encompass a transparent perforated firebox that showcases the fire. Did we mail it? The Retrofire sure has received lots of love. Want your very own? The Retrofire is currently available through special order. and soon in our online store (that really means I have to do some amazing photo shoot so I can put her up online!)

Modfire Homes

Client images of their beautiful spaces, giving us a peek at their Modfire style.

Tiki Oasis AZ

A show like no other! This was the inaugural year of Tiki Oasis AZ at the magnificent Valley Ho Hotel, a mid- century masterpiece in downtown Scottsdale. Imagine being swept away to a faraway place and time traveling to a 50’s Hawaiian luau. Everyone is period correct, over the top and loving every minute of it. We were in heaven, this Polynesian paradise exists only two times a year and we at Modfire had a blast. This is a sister show to the infamous Tiki Oasis San Deigo, I’ve only heard stories, like the “up and down bar” in the hotel elevator that serves drinks to it’s passengers.

We officially launched Tikifire and as you can imagine it was a huge hit. The god of fire ruled the night. 

The hotel grounds were a beautiful backdrop for our Modfire booth, I think it looked amazing.  

These kids love a good themed party! What an amazing time with this girl, she’s so fun! Proud to be a part of the magic that is Tiki Oasis. 

A quick pose with Miss Tiki Oasis in front of the “Big Kahuna” look at us, we’re all matchy matchy! 

See you next year!  

Tikifire - Four years in the making.

Back in 2015 when Jon Arvizu, illustrator extraordinaire worked up some sweet branding items for Modfire, he pitched me on a steel sleeve that would fit over an existing Modfire and turn it into a Tiki face. It was clever, but the timing wasn’t right. However the vision of it stuck in my mind and I kept revisiting it. Four years later Jon and I were lucky enough to finally collaborate on  our latest design The Tikifire. 

It only took four years...then one day, The Stars aligned, the island natives didn’t riot and the fire gods approved. This limited edition wonder comes to life in a 4ft. (Tikifire) or 7ft. (Big Kahuna) edition. 

We will be launching Tikifire this Weekend during AZ Tiki Oasis at the Valley Ho Hotel in Scottsdale  April 12-14 (10-4pm) FREE ADMISSION. Come check out Modfire and get your very own ultra-rare, fire belching TIKIFIRE sticker.

Want your very own 4ft or 7ft Tikifire before the official launch? Call or Email us for details and pricing. Contact Us

Boxfire photo session

For me Modfire has always been about creating timeless iconic designs that function more as art objects that look stunning at rest, but once ablaze they are truly magical.

 The Boxfire was a huge design challenge to create something rectilinear that wasn’t a tired rehash. I tried to embody a lightness and elegance to the design and am really pleased with the result. I hope you are as well. 

I had this all set up the night before, ready to shoot and forgot the key to the key valve that controls the gas so I had to wait a full 24hrs to get this image, but it’s so good!

These are some of the highlights of this remarkable space, the Boxfire felt really right on this ledge.  

And then that moment when your buddy takes a pic, of you, taking a pic of your fireplace. Thanks Geno!

Vintage Trailer Show - 2019 Modernism Week

What do you do when your 1970 Airstream Ambassador is already in Palm Springs? You score a spot at the Vintage Trailer Show to feature your mostly original Airstream and ModFire fireplaces.! 

We were super blessed to get a spot as they fill up waaaay in advance, but they loved ModFire and with only 36 hrs. We hustled back to Phoenix to grab our fireplaces and headed back, with some cute pillows and rugs for our trailer Rosie of course!

It’s almost showtime

The weather was perfect to feature our fireplaces actually burning, a nice treat and we got a ton of ModFire love. 

If you gotta warm your bums, do it in style! 

This was my kind of show, I even busted out the vintage Hawaiian shirt for the occasion. It brought together some of my favorite things and gave Marne and I another weekend to work/play together. Pretty awesome, thanks for sharing in our adventure. 

Until 2020 keep your trailer rubber side down and the flames on your fireplaces burning.  

Modernism Week 2019

Once again Modfire makes the pilgrimage to the Mecca that is Modernism Week in Palm Springs. It’s a phenomenal concentration of Mid-Century style and a wonderland of eye candy bringing in people from all corners of the globe. 

This is the look of two people sliding out of town to work at Modernism Week...Without their kids.

Game faces, channeling our inner Freddie Mercury and Audrey Hepburn. 

Palm Springs Modern Expo - 2019 Palm Springs Convention Center

So pleased with this Tribalfire in crisp white!

Booth looks amazing this year! 

I always do a new design for Modernism Week and this design is lucky number seven. Say hello to the Boxfire.  

The Boxfire shares the same DNA as our entire Modfire line and its great design solution for long, linear spaces.

This girl is on point with that outfit. My lovely assistant/wife Marne makes it look easy!

Win this 7ft Tribalfire!

Be the light, elevate your life. All it takes is $50 and some luck to win this 7ft Tribalfire, our new flagship design from Modfire. It’s our first raffle and it’s for a good cause! Imagine helping someone in need and maybe even becoming the owner of this bad boy. Buy entries and read the story here. https://go.rallyup.com/fireforlife/DXTKSU

Win this 7ft Tribalfire. Winner will be announced Jan. 1st. 2019

Desert and Denim - 2017

We had such an incredible experience at this year's desert and denim. This "renegade tradeshow" in its third year and was open to the public for the first time. It was really wonderful to see everyone interacting with our fireplaces in such an authentic setting.

Modfire was proud to be one of the extraordinary brands showcased who were offering really great work.

Made new friends, got inspired and resonated with this tribe. The Looking forward to an even bigger Desert and Denim in 2018

Our all aluminum Firestream was right at home and got a lot of love

Wander with friends out in the wild and gather by the fire

A perfect place to showcase our striking new fireplace the Hellfire

Yeah...that's me posing like a proud Dad over my new creation.  

Swapping stories and telling tales are always better by a fire, especially when there's a Range Rover in the mix 

Till Next Year... 

Modfire Celebrates Six Years

Six years ago today the Modfire fireplace shifted from an interesting idea to an actual working prototype. Vision became real. A tangible form crafted in steel. My heart raced as I sanded the last seam. I didn't know what this would all become, just that I satisfied my soul in the act of doing. Loving the process, feeling the metal bend to my will. In that moment, this iconic shape would define the Modfire aesthetic and launch a company that would change the idea of what a fireplace could be. I wouldn't have gotten very far had it not been for that guy next to me, Martin Young, my founding business partner. His brilliance brought all the other aspects of the company together and help launch a Wildfire. I'm so grateful that Modfire company has grown and evolved over those six years with spectacular new designs while maintaining the quality that only comes from hand crafting each piece. Today I'm celebrating the American dream, a place where you can still take an idea, make it your own and turn it into something special. Thank you to all of my fans and supporters for loving Modfire as much a I do.

Brandon Williams and Martin Young - Modfire Co-Founders

Hand Crafted and American Made

Turning Up the Heat at Modernism Week!

We packed the truck, hitched the Airstream and made our yearly trek to the desert to help celebrate the modern spirit at Palm Spring's Modernism Week.

This year we had a great booth space at The Camp and the folks running the show asked us if we could supply some fireplaces for the main schmoozing area, to which we excitedly obliged. 

The fireplaces ended up being a great addition to the space since the desert has some chilly nights in the winter. All in all it was a blast and another very successful Modernism Week. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello.

See you all next year!

Welcome to the new Modfire.com!

We are pleased to announce the launch of our shiny new website!

The store is finally set up and is ready to take orders, so shop away!

More to come so stay tuned!