Backyard Fire Circle: Creating Campfire Ambiance in a Seattle Garden

Twilight beckons with fireside comfort. Carolyn Temple brought mountain campfire intimacy to her Madison Park, Seattle garden—no Cascades required.

Design Strategy

Layered plantings fringe the property line, stepping down toward the garden interior to create a thick, textured screen. Scattered pots with foliage and seasonal flowers enhance seclusion.

The Fire Feature

• 16.5-foot diameter gravel circle framed in brick
• Central 40-inch brick platform elevates portable metal fire bowl
• Charcoal-colored crushed rock fills the ring
• Fire bowl: <$350 from garden store
• Sparks land on gravel and expire—safe and stylish

The understated focal point anchors the wild plant assortment, creating a sophisticated yet wild sanctuary.