Outdoor Fireplaces in Chicago – Custom Designs for Luxury Outdoor Living
A custom outdoor fireplace is one of the most impactful upgrades you can add to your home. It brings warmth, ambiance, and year-round enjoyment to your outdoor space. At JWD Landscaping & Outdoor Living, we specialize in designing and installing high-end outdoor fireplaces in Chicago and surrounding suburbs. Our team builds fireplaces that combine aesthetic beauty, structural durability, and lifestyle functionality. Whether you’re creating a cozy seating area or transforming your backyard into a complete outdoor living environment, we deliver craftsmanship that stands out.
Outdoor fireplaces are not just fire features—they are architectural elements that significantly elevate your patio, backyard, or outdoor kitchen. From rustic natural stone to streamlined contemporary designs, we customize every element to match your home’s style and your vision.
If you’re searching for reliable outdoor fireplace contractors in Chicago, our team offers local experience, premium materials, and expert installation backed by years of specialized hardscaping knowledge.
Why Outdoor Fireplaces Are a Top Upgrade for Chicago Homes
Outdoor fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular due to their functionality, aesthetic value, and the ability to extend outdoor enjoyment through multiple seasons. Key benefits include:
Year-Round Outdoor Enjoyment
Chicago’s climate makes heating essential for outdoor gatherings. A professionally installed fireplace allows you to enjoy your backyard even during cooler months.
Instant Visual Impact
Outdoor fireplaces become focal points that draw attention and add architectural depth to patios and outdoor living spaces.
Higher Home Value
Outdoor living upgrades—especially fireplaces—are among the top features buyers look for, adding strong resale appeal.
Versatile Entertainment Space
Whether hosting guests or relaxing with family, your fireplace becomes the heart of your outdoor setting.
Safe, Durable, and Built to Last
Compared to portable fire pits, a masonry fireplace ensures better safety, ventilation, and long-term durability.
Our Outdoor Fireplace Services
Custom Outdoor Fireplace Design
Your project begins with a detailed design consultation. We take the time to understand your vision, preferred style, and how you plan to use your outdoor space. We evaluate:
- Patio or backyard layout
- Gas or wood-burning preferences
- Material choices (stone, brick, concrete, stucco)
- Size, height, and architectural style
- Outdoor living features you may add later
The result is a custom plan that integrates seamlessly into your property while enhancing comfort and functionality.
Professional Outdoor Fireplace Installation
Our highly trained team handles the full construction process, ensuring the highest safety and quality standards. Installation includes:
- Fire-rated masonry construction
- Proper ventilation and airflow
- Gas line installation if needed
- Reinforced foundation requirements
- Moisture-resistant and weatherproof materials
- Heat-resistant stone and brick options
We build fireplaces designed to withstand Chicago’s seasonal extremes while maintaining their beauty year after year.
Outdoor Fireplace Styles We Build
Stone Outdoor Fireplaces
Natural stone delivers a timeless, rustic, and elegant look. They are extremely durable and ideal for upscale outdoor spaces.
Brick Outdoor Fireplaces
Classic brick fireplaces complement traditional homes and create a warm, inviting look suitable for both small patios and larger backyards.
Gas Outdoor Fireplaces
For convenience, gas fireplaces offer push-button ignition, clean flames, and low maintenance. They’re perfect for urban Chicago homes and modern outdoor living areas.
Wood-Burning Outdoor Fireplaces
Ideal for homeowners who love authentic crackling fire and a cozy atmosphere. Wood-burning units offer unmatched heat output and traditional charm.
Modern & Contemporary Fireplace Designs
We also build sleek, contemporary fireplaces including:
- Linear burners
- Two-sided fireplaces
- Smooth stucco designs
- Concrete fireplaces
- Integrated entertainment walls
Each feature can be customized to match your outdoor architecture.
Outdoor Fireplace Cost in Chicago
The cost of an outdoor fireplace varies based on:
- Materials (stone, brick, concrete, precast)
- Gas vs wood-burning
- Foundation and patio requirements
- Size and custom detailing
- Added features such as mantels, seating walls, and lighting
On average, most professionally designed outdoor fireplaces in Chicago range between $6,500 and $18,000+ depending on design and materials.
We provide detailed, transparent estimates to help you choose the best option for your budget.
Outdoor Fireplace Ideas for Your Home
If you’re planning your project, here are some popular ideas homeowners in Chicago request:
- Outdoor fireplace centered on a patio
- Fireplace with custom seating walls
- Stone fireplace connected to an outdoor kitchen
- Modern concrete fireplace with clean lines
- Wood-burning fireplace under a pergola
- Gas fireplace integrated with a TV wall
- Landscaped fireplace area with lighting features
We help you transform inspiration into a detailed design plan.
Outdoor Kitchens + Fireplaces Combined
Many clients choose to combine an outdoor fireplace with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen for a complete entertainment space. Our design team can integrate:
- Built-in grills
- Countertops
- Storage
- Dining areas
- Bars
- Pergolas
- Fireplaces
This combination creates a cohesive backyard environment perfect for cooking, gathering, and relaxing.
Outdoor Fireplace Maintenance and Repair
To ensure long-term performance, we offer:
- Fireplace cleaning
- Seasonal inspection
- Masonry repair
- Gas line safety checks
- Replacement of damaged materials
- Structural reinforcement when needed
Ongoing maintenance ensures your fireplace operates safely and continues to look beautiful for years.
Service Areas
JWD Landscaping & Outdoor Living proudly installs outdoor fireplaces throughout the Chicago metropolitan region. We serve:
Whether you need a modern gas unit for a city home or a rustic wood-burning fireplace for a suburban backyard, our team brings the expertise to design and install the perfect solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to build an outdoor fireplace?
Most outdoor fireplaces take between 1 and 2 weeks to complete, depending on size, materials, and weather conditions. Complex or fully customized fireplaces may require additional time.
2. What type of outdoor fireplace is best for Chicago weather?
Stone and brick fireplaces perform exceptionally well in Chicago’s climate due to their durability and resistance to freezing and thawing. Gas fireplaces are also popular for convenience and clean operation.
3. Can an outdoor fireplace be added to an existing patio?
Yes. We can build your fireplace directly onto an existing patio as long as the foundation can support the structure. If modifications are needed, we will recommend reinforcement options.
4. Do outdoor fireplaces require maintenance?
Yes, routine maintenance ensures safety and longevity. Wood-burning units need more attention, including ash removal and chimney inspection. Gas fireplaces need periodic line checks and burner cleaning.
5. How much does a custom outdoor fireplace usually cost?
Most outdoor fireplaces range from $6,500 to $18,000+ depending on materials, size, fuel type, and customization. We provide detailed estimates so you can choose the best option.
6. Do you build both gas and wood-burning fireplaces?
Yes. We install both options and help you decide based on your lifestyle, budget, and local regulations
7. Do I need a permit for an outdoor fireplace in Chicago?
Permits may be required depending on your municipality and the type of fireplace. We handle all permit requirements for your project to ensure compliance.
Ready to Build Your Outdoor Fireplace in Chicago?
Transform your backyard into a warm, inviting outdoor living space with a beautifully crafted fireplace.
Contact JWD Landscaping & Outdoor Living today for a free consultation and estimate.
Our experts will help design and install a custom outdoor fireplace that enhances your home’s comfort, beauty, and value.