WES Blog

There is nothing better than sitting outside on a warm summer evening watching the sun set. But then as those warm breezes start to turn a little chilly; our thoughts turn to patio heaters.

But before you look at those boring old tall, metal heaters, consider a gas fire pit. A fire pit is far more useful than a mono-directional bar heater, it’s circular design means that people seated 360 degrees around the pit can enjoy the warmth of a blazing fire.

 A fire pit from Oriflamme combines urban style with the outdoors. Not only do gas fire pits provide ambiance to your outdoor patio, they are easy to use. These fire pits are where you and your family or guests can gather round, or you can enjoy some alone time in front of the flickering blaze. They are so easy to use that you wouldn’t think twice about going outside on your own, starting the fire and relaxing.

With a traditional fire pit there is a lot more work to do to get it lit, and while those are fun, and have their place, Oriflamme fire pits are so easy and so different, you’ll find yourself using it far more often. Entertainers and homebodies alike will love a fire pit which adds warm ambiance to your outdoor patio area.

Many people dislike overhead gas or electric patio heaters, although they work well in Parisian sidewalk cafés, with plastic "walls" zipped to contain the heat. The problem is overhead rays sometimes cook your head while your legs freeze.

Patio fire pits and tables, fueled by propane or natural gas, are a brilliant addition and a red-hot outdoor trend. To see what all the buzz is about, come see one for yourself at West Sport in Sudbury, serving all of MetroWest, MA.

In this economy there's not much leftover spending money, backyards are the vacation of choice for many. Just open the door and there you are!

How to make your backyard a relaxing and fun refuge? The experts say good lighting, fire pits and good seating and/or dining spaces are essential. Don't forget the grill.

Making the backyard a fun place to relax will cost some money, but it will always be there, so it is an investment.

Is there space in the backyard for a mini-kitchen? A complete outdoor grilling area where you can cook a full meal is the new hot item in homes; entertaining and cooking while you and your family and friends are enjoying your wonderful backyard. 

How about patio furniture? For a comfortable outdoor space, get rid of the old folding patio chairs. OutdoorSeating that is comfortable, and that you like, not seating that is on sale, is important if this is to be your new vacation spot. Buy patio furniture that is waterproof and won't need sanding and staining or painting on a regular basis.

Even some summer evenings can get cool so fire pits are a great investment. There's nothing like a controlled fire in your backyard to enjoy on a regular basis. An in Massachusetts, gas fire pits are easy work and they extend your summer into the cooler nights of fall.

If you need help deciding what will work for your space, visit us at The Fireplace and Grill Shop at West Sport, conveniently located near Natick, Framingham and Marlborough. We can help you with ideas and design, and we’ll come to your home to measure too.

Your second home, that summer place, is no farther away than the backyard. And where better to spend an evening as the sun sets and a breeze cools down the overheated city?

Rachel and Joe Allen are in the process of turning their backyard into a suburban oasis. They’re putting in a swimming pool and adding a patio and outdoor kitchen, along with new landscaping. They’ll bring in deck furniture to sit beside the pool, casual seating pieces and a new gas fire pit.

“We’re looking to create an outdoor-living environment and expand our livable space,” Joe Allen said. “We had a nicely landscaped yard, but there was no feature to draw you outside.”

High gasoline prices and a halting economy may have some families rethinking their vacation plans for this year and instead investing in new patio furniture and other accessories for at-home leisure and dining.

Patio-furniture manufacturers have improved on recent trends. And, people are extending their homes by bringing more seating outside.

Outdoor living is definitely on the rise. Global Industry Analysts Inc. predicts that, by 2015, U.S. consumers will spend more than $4.4 billion on outdoor furniture.

Americans have long loved to picnic in their backyards, adding outdoor kitchens and barbecue islands to the landscaping. But more and more, they’re making the great outdoors their summertime living room, as well.

Another trend that continues to gain traction is the fire pit, a perfect gathering spot for chilly evenings. They’re fueled by wood or propane and are turning up in both coffee and dining tables.

And many outdoor-furniture manufacturers are going “green.” Telescope Casual Furniture has a line of outdoor furniture made from marine grade polymer (MGP), which is completely recyclable and quite durable.

Original article by Dixie Reid