When reader Darryl emailed Pam looking for good sources for a wok-like fire bowl — the search was on. There are plenty of modern retro looking fire bowls in a variety of shapes and sizes out there — but they don’t always come cheap.
Hi Pam,
Big fan here…thank you for all you do! I’m looking for “wok-like” planters and fire bowls that are on posts elevating them from the ground. (Very George Jetson). I’m hoping that you would know a source.
Thanks,
Darryl
Palm Springs, CA
Ok Darryl — after extensive internet research I’ve been able to find a number “wok-like” fire bowls with George Jetson appeal — listed below from most to least expensive. Hopefully one of these is just the fire pit you’ve been searching for.
Update a few years later: Lots more models out there now that midcentury modern design (and fire pits) are so popular. Be sure to shop around!
Stardust Modern Gandia Balasco Brasero Modern Outdoor Firepit — $1,120 Update: Now discontinued but they have other options including one that looks like this.
Design Within Reach Fire Bowl — $495
All Modern, Skagerak Denmark Olympia Fire Pit — $415
Etsy, Fire Pits Atlanta 42 inch Fire Pit Industrial Duty — $400
Amazon, Esschert Design Fire Bowl Extra Large — $279.99
All Modern, Real Flame Four Can Outdoor Fire Pit — $139.65
All Modern Halo Fire Pit — $61.36
So there you have it — proof that you can find an appropriate retro inspired fire bowl for your backyard patio in any price range. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled at yard sales, estate sales and on Craigslist too — you could find just what you’ve been searching for at a reasonable price without having to fork over money for shipping.
willow murawski says
before you invest in a firepit make sure they are permitted in your town. where i live you cannot have any firepit, even with a screen due to air pollution regulations. just because the stores in your town sell them does not make them legal.
pam kueber says
Thanks for that tip, Willow!
Elaine says
Just when I am looking for a firepit to put on a cement slab where a shed formerly blocked my view of the Indian River! What timing!
Darryl says
Once again you’ve come through for your readers Pam! Thanks for such a great article. I really like the Stardust models. I’ll keep you posted on my progress and send you photos when the landscaping is complete. Darryl
Nathan says
An FYI to anyone considering the Design Within Reach or Skagerak models – they are one in the same. We purchased the Skagerak several years ago (it was not as costly then!) and have enjoyed it very much. It is constructed of natural cast iron, which does eventually take on some patina/rust and might be something to consider. Otherwise, it’s a great size, nicely designed, and the built in handles make for easy moving and cleaning.
Rebecca@MidcenturyModernRemodel says
I really like the Preway’s but I am not in harmony with my other half. Boo.
Suzanne says
I would love to find one of those cone fire pits. I think they’re super cool. However, when my husband tore down the pidgeon coop that was rotting in the backyard, he found a big pile of red brick. I guess we’re going to have a red brick fire pit this summer.
nina462 says
We made ours out of brick that was “found” in the lot we just bought. The lot was a neighborhood dumping ground for 30+ years – we had fun finding stuff that the housebuilders had thrown there (extra slate tiles, red bricks, concrete bricks, liquor bottles 🙂 )
Barbara says
FYI, please be careful about placement of any firepit. Some friends of my family had a house fire caused from a firepit placed on a wooden deck. That being said, these are very cool.
Ms. FMV says
We are currently having a local steel fabricator construct a custom design fire pit for our own. I worked with the fabricator to come up with the design… based on the works of Richard Serra and forms borrowed from origami bowls. The custom fire pit will cost around $450-$600. Not a bad price considering given the quality and fact that it will be a one of a kind. I’m super excited to see the completed piece in my yard. Should be just a couple of weeks now til it’s done! Having a custom design from a local artisan is something to consider. You will have a super unique item, support local business and likely save money over high-end designer alternatives.
nickarmadillo says
Thanks for this! As with all retro-modern things, most of them seem pretty pricey, but that All Modern version for $62 fits the bill perfectly. Might have to pick one up.
Katie says
Alternately, if you have a good Asian grocery store in your area (or can order online, though shipping can be spendy) you can find 24 or 30 inch woks for around 50 bucks, although you’d still have to make a base, or find someone who can.