Outdoor living spaces are getting more and more popular with homeowners who want to extend the comfort and convenience of their home. Outdoor kitchens in particular are a great way to incorporate custom brick features such as built-in benches or pizza ovens. Not only do these elements serve a practical purpose, they add character and long-term value to your property.
From fun backyard pizza parties to cozy fire-side seating, check out this guide on how to design and build timeless brick features such as these. The first step is to hire a trusted masonry contractor in Oakland County.
Determine the Space’s Purpose
First off, you have to decide how you want the space to be used:
- Brick Bench: This is great for casual seating around a fire pit, along a garden path, or as part of your overall patio design. Benches not only create structure and flow, they’re also built to last as low-maintenance, durable seating options.
- Pizza Oven: A wood-fired brick oven is a functional centerpiece where you can cook homemade pizza, fresh bread, roasted veggies, and more – all without having to run back and forth from the kitchen while entertaining.
Now it’s time to start shaping the layout.
4 Creative Layout Tips
From ideal location to multi-level designs, here are some things to consider when creating a layout.
1. Location, Location, Location
- Brick Bench: Ideal placements for semi-circle or L-shape designs include along a retaining wall, patio edge, or curved around a fire pit.
- Pizza Oven: Choose a spot with proper ventilation and away from low-hanging tree limbs, ideally near your dining area for easy serving.
2. Integrate with Existing Hardscape
Incorporate the bench or oven into an existing hardscape element, such as a patio or walkway. Strive to match paver patterns, stone textures, or mortar color for uniformity.
3. Use Multi-Level Design
- Enjoy a built-in planting ledge with a slightly raised brick bench back.
- Consider built-in prep counters or wood storage underneath your pizza oven.
4. Lighting and Ambiance
For nighttime enjoyment, install low-voltage lights under the bench seat or around the oven base. Add lantern-style lighting or string lights above the patio for warmth and functionality.
Which Brick Materials Should You Use?
From clay to reclaimed brick to fire brick, here’s a look at the ideal materials for this type of project.
- Clay Brick: Because clay brick is so durable and heat-resistant, it is ideal for benches and pizza ovens.
- Reclaimed Brick: Best for historic or farmhouse-style yards, reclaimed brick adds a rustic charm.
- Fire Brick: You’ll need this type of brick for the interior of your pizza oven because it is highly heat resistant and won’t crack.
Now that you know which brick to use, now the question is: what about the mortar and grout?High-heat refractory mortar is best for pizza ovens; standard mortar works well for benches, but look for a weather-resistant type.
You may also consider adding on the following materials for aesthetics and protection:
- Stone caps or paver tops forsitting or prepping.
- Stucco or veneer stone for asmooth, modern look.
Whether you’re hosting weekend pizza nights or enjoying quiet evenings under the stars, a custom brick bench or pizza oven brings lasting value and enjoyment to your home.
Contact It’s The Brick Guys
Let our masonry contractors in Oakland County bring your backyard vision to life with precision and craftsmanship. Just contact us today for a free quote and consultation.
