Successful entertaining calls for ambience. Delicious food, great company, a stylish setting, and the gratification of knowing that you’ve taken care of everything to put your guests at ease. Nothing speaks to outdoor comfort like a fire feature that’s attractive and functional.
During their own getaway at a Georgian Bay cottage, Peter Briese and his partner Jenn fell in love with a fire globe at that property and quickly added one to the outdoor space at the Muskoka BBQ and Outdoor Kitchen design centre.
“We’ve now sourced some absolutely beautiful fire features to offer clients for the coming season,” says Peter. “One difference between these and some fire features is that these offer actual warmth in addition to being aesthetically pleasing.”
Sculptural pieces with a live fire capability are several steps beyond traditional fire pits. Even when there’s no fire burning, the custom-built fire bowls are gorgeous to behold.
“You’re adding style to the outdoor entertainment space while taking the edge off those cooler evenings,” Peter explains.
Exciting options Wood-burning fire bowls are just one option for taking the chill off the outdoors. Muskoka BBQ also has a line of propane or natural gas-fueled fire features. Each unit can be customized around a central burner.
“They’re conversation pieces you can arrange seating around if desired. They can be built with legroom beneath the concrete tabletop, space to set down drinks and food, with a cozy fire in the centre,” says Peter.
Time flies
For obvious reasons, summer is the most popular time for getting together to enjoy meals and drinks on decks and docks. Hearty types can withstand a late November barbecue, but why suffer when warming options are at the ready?
“Extending outdoor entertainment time for the shoulder seasons is made entirely possible with fire features that provide a steady heat source,” says Peter.
Muskoka BBQ also offers a range of electric and propane Bromic heaters that allow for comfortable outdoor dining and stargazing late into the season.
Peter and Jenn love their own fire globe, as do guests at their outdoor entertainment space at home. There’s something truly wonderful about knowing firsthand how much these fire features add to the vibe.
“We use the products we feature ourselves before we decide to add them to our lines,” Pete says. “These fire features are really something special. I’m excited to see clients adding them to their own unique spaces.”
TEXT MARNIE WOODROW | PHOTOS SCOTT TURNBULL