Advances in technology have reduced a lot of the heavy lifting involved in getting close to nature, says Jeff Ciarlo, general manager of Casual Marketplace in Hockessin.
There’s no hauling wood or cleaning out ashes with a gas-fueled fire pit. Consumers have the option of piping gas underground or using a 20-pound propane tank, just like the one that fuels a gas grill. Prices typically range from $1,099-$1,899.
“A lot of people go for gas because they like the safety of being able to turn off the fire pit when they go to bed,” he says.
So-called “fire-and-ice” pits are outfitted with glass crystals in the burner pan.
“It’s very pretty,” Ciarlo says, “and you can use it as a coffee table when you don’t have a fire.”
A fountain refreshes the spirit with the soothing sound of running water. Opulent waterfalls cascade into koi ponds. A bubbling ceramic urn can be stationed on a deck or porch.
At his home, Ciarlo has a recirculating fountain, mounted on the side of the house.
“You fill it with water, plug it in and the fountain does the rest,” he says. “All you have to do is sit back and enjoy it.”
You don’t need to venture far to embrace the outdoors and enjoy the open air. The pleasure of communing with family, friends and Mother Nature is right outside your door.
