Add Focal Points That Perform

If your outdoor space feels flat or lacks a clear gathering point, adding a fire pit, outdoor fireplace, waterfall, or fountain creates a functional and visual anchor. Alfresco Landscapes designs and installs custom fire and water features for Grand Rapids homes, using materials and engineering suited to West Michigan freeze-thaw cycles and lakefront humidity. These elements add warmth, sound, and atmosphere to patios, pool areas, and garden zones.

Fire features include built-in fire pits, fire bowls, and outdoor fireplaces that run on natural gas or propane, with options for manual ignition or electronic controls. Water features range from naturalistic waterfalls and streams to contemporary fountains and linear water walls. Each feature is built with proper drainage, circulation, and safety in mind, and designs are integrated into surrounding stonework or planting beds for a cohesive look.

Explore custom feature options through a design consultation in Grand Rapids to see what works for your space and budget.

During the design phase, you'll discuss where the feature will be located, what purpose it serves, and how it should look in relation to your home and landscape. Fire features are planned around seating areas, and gas lines are routed during site preparation. Water features are designed with pump sizing, basin depth, and flow patterns that create the right sound level and visual effect.

Installation involves excavation, plumbing or gas line work, and stone or masonry construction to create the feature structure. Alfresco Landscapes uses premium materials such as natural stone, steel bowls, and mortared masonry to ensure long-term stability. After installation, you'll notice a clear focal point that draws people in and changes how the space is used for entertaining or relaxation.

Water features include recirculating pumps, filtration systems, and overflow drains to handle seasonal rainfall and prevent stagnation. Fire features are vented properly and built to code, with flame height and heat output tailored to the size of the seating area. Features are designed for seasonal shutdown and winterization, and clients are walked through maintenance procedures during the final walkthrough. This service does not include ongoing cleaning or seasonal startup unless added to a maintenance plan.

Clients often have questions about fuel types, noise levels, and how these features hold up through winter. These answers cover the most common concerns before projects begin.

Once your feature is installed and operating, it becomes a natural gathering spot that functions through spring, summer, and fall, with clear instructions for winterizing before cold weather arrives. Get in touch to discuss design options and schedule a consultation in Grand Rapids.