The Outdoor Plus: Custom Fire and Water Features for Luxury Patios

If you're working with a client who has a specific vision—who knows exactly how a fire feature should fit into their patio space and isn't settling for anything off-the-shelf—The Outdoor Plus is the conversation you need to have.

I've collaborated with their design team on projects ranging from small urban courtyards to sprawling resort patios. What distinguishes them isn't flashy marketing or the latest trends. It's their obsessive focus on custom specifications and build quality that makes architects and serious outdoor designers keep coming back.

The Outdoor Plus operates in the luxury segment. If you're quoting budget-conscious projects or clients who want "something nice" without deep customization, this might be overkill. But for projects where aesthetics matter, performance is non-negotiable, and lead times are flexible, they're genuinely special.

What The Outdoor Plus Does Differently

Most fire table manufacturers offer a catalog of fixed designs. You pick a model, choose a color, place an order. The Outdoor Plus inverts that model: they see fire and water features as design opportunities rather than furniture SKUs.

Their approach means you're not buying a product—you're commissioning a piece. That mentality shapes everything from initial consultation through installation.

When I work with their team, the conversation starts with context. How does this feature integrate with the existing hardscape? What's the sight line from inside the home? How much usable table surface does your client actually need? What entertainment patterns will this enable?

These questions shift specifications. Someone else might specify a generic 36-inch fire table. The Outdoor Plus might recommend a 42-inch oval with a lower edge detail that doubles as casual seating, fire box depth that accommodates oversized wood, and a surrounding bench built into the larger landscape.

Understanding GFRC and Material Options

The Outdoor Plus's flagship material is GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete). This is the technical foundation of their customization advantage.

GFRC isn't standard concrete with fiberglass mixed in. It's a specific formulation where glass fibers are carefully distributed throughout a cement matrix, creating a material that's lighter and more durable than conventional concrete while remaining visually indistinguishable from high-end stone.

Why this matters: GFRC allows The Outdoor Plus to create forms and shapes that traditional stone or concrete cannot achieve. They can mold complex curves, thin edges, intricate pattern details, and unexpected proportions. Your client wants a 15-foot linear water feature with integrated seating and custom waterfall elements? GFRC makes it feasible.

The material benefits extend beyond aesthetics:

• Weight distribution: GFRC is significantly lighter than stone, easing installation on elevated decks or rooftops where structural load is critical.
• Freeze-thaw performance: In cold climates, concrete struggles. GFRC formulations handle freeze-thaw cycling better through specific mix design.
• Surface finishes: GFRC accepts various surface treatments—polished, honed, textured, embedded aggregates. Each changes the visual and tactile experience.
• Color integration: Unlike painted concrete, GFRC color runs throughout the material. It doesn't chip or fade like surface finishes.

The Outdoor Plus also works with stainless steel components, powder-coated aluminum, and natural stone where projects call for material mixing.

Fire Feature Customization: Beyond the Standard Catalog

Shape and Proportion

You're not limited to rectangular. The Outdoor Plus produces irregular forms, organic curves, sculptural shapes. I've specified oval tables, hexagons, custom L-shapes for corner installations, and asymmetrical pieces that echo the architecture of the home.

Each shape variation influences fire box placement, seating dynamics, and how the piece relates to surrounding landscape. This is why initial consultation matters—the "right" shape depends entirely on context.

Fire Box Options

The Outdoor Plus offers propane, natural gas, and wood-burning fire boxes. Each demands different engineering:

• Propane/Natural Gas: Clean burning, controllable flame, consistent heat. Gas burner components can be customized for flame aesthetics—multi-burner systems, linear flame patterns, or traditional centered fire boxes.
• Wood-burning: Genuine wood fire (if your client wants atmosphere over convenience). Requires different ventilation engineering and grate design. Works beautifully in less formal entertaining spaces.

The Outdoor Plus engineers fire box depth, flame area, and surround design to create the experience the client envisions. Want dramatic tall flames? Different engineering than a low, intimate fire. Want to balance heat output with visual appeal? They'll spec that balance explicitly.

Water Feature Integration

This is where The Outdoor Plus really separates. Many fire table makers grudgingly acknowledge water features. The Outdoor Plus treats fire and water as complementary design elements.

Water features range from subtle spillways and cascades to dramatic multi-tier fountains integrated into the same installation. I've seen projects where water features frame a fire table, creating zones within a larger entertaining space. GFRC's moldable nature makes complex water circulation paths possible—they're engineered, not assembled from separate components.

Pump systems are specified by performance needs: circulation rate, pressure, noise level. They can hide completely within the GFRC structure or become an intentional design element.

Seating and Functional Details

The Outdoor Plus frequently integrates seating benches, ledges, or custom detailing into the fire feature itself. A table might have a rear seating edge at 18 inches high, built-in footrests, or coping details that function as casual seating.

These integrated elements reduce the need for separate furniture while creating cohesive spaces. It's another reason custom specification matters—your client's entertaining patterns might call for bench seating on one side and conversation furniture on the other.

Material Palette and Aesthetic Options

GFRC is offered in standard colors, but custom color development is possible for significant projects. Surface finishes include:

• Smooth and honed (contemporary, minimal texture)
• Textured (adds visual interest and slip resistance)
• Embedded aggregates (polished stones, glass, metals within the surface)
• Acid-washed (reveals aggregate composition differently)
• Radiant finish (contemporary aesthetic with subtle sheen)

Component finishes matter equally. Stainless steel trim can be polished, brushed, or powder-coated. Fire box surrounds might contrast the main GFRC body. Copper or brass accents can be integrated for warm luxury finishes.

The cumulative effect is that two Outdoor Plus installations rarely look identical, even if they use similar base components. Customization extends to every visual detail.

Lead Times and Production Reality

This is the honest conversation: The Outdoor Plus lead times are long. Custom fire features typically require 12–20 weeks from order confirmation to delivery, depending on complexity and current production queue.

Simple orders (standard GFRC fire table, basic configuration) might compress to 10 weeks. Complex installations (multi-feature designs, integrated water elements, bespoke seating) easily push past 20 weeks.

Plan accordingly. If a client needs installation within 8 weeks, custom The Outdoor Plus work isn't realistic. But if you're planning a major patio renovation with realistic timelines, the lead time is manageable and often overlaps with hardscape and landscaping work.

During production, The Outdoor Plus provides photo updates and mock-ups of finishes. This isn't just courtesy—it protects against specification mismatches and allows last-minute adjustments before final production.

Installation Logistics and Site Prep

Custom fire features arrive mostly assembled, but "mostly" is relative. Depending on complexity, you might be managing:

• Large GFRC components that require careful positioning and leveling
• Gas line connections (natural gas or propane)
• Water circulation systems (pump installation, drainage planning)
• Electrical for pumps, LED lighting, or integrated systems
• Final surface sealing and protection

I strongly recommend having experienced installers on site. These aren't DIY projects. You're working with significant weight, fluid systems, and combustible elements. Licensed gas and electrical contractors are non-negotiable for liability and code compliance.

Site preparation demands precision. GFRC needs absolutely level surfaces (typically concrete pads). Water features need proper drainage planning. Gas lines need safe routing from meters or tanks.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

GFRC is significantly lower-maintenance than stone or standard concrete, but it's not zero-maintenance:

• Sealing: Initial seal is applied at production. Resealing every 1–2 years extends protection and prevents staining.
• Cleaning: Mild soap and soft brush for routine cleaning. Avoid pressure washing, which can damage GFRC surface.
• Winter care: GFRC handles freeze-thaw, but covering features during harsh winter reduces weathering stress.
• Water system maintenance: Annual pump inspection, filter cleaning, winterization in cold climates.

Unlike stone that develops patina and character over time, GFRC maintains its finish. That's desirable for modern aesthetics but requires proactive care if you want to avoid weathering changes.

Comparing The Outdoor Plus to Alternatives

How does The Outdoor Plus stack against other premium fire feature makers?

Patiofyre (see our Patiofyre review) offers curated modern designs with minimal customization. Superior for quick installations; less flexible for truly bespoke projects.

Local custom fabricators might be cheaper for simple work, but lack engineering depth for complex systems. You're also carrying more risk if something fails.

Mass-market brands offer immediate availability and low cost. The Outdoor Plus competes on quality, customization, and performance—not price.

For clients willing to invest and plan ahead, The Outdoor Plus delivers measurable advantages in customization, engineering, and material quality.

FAQ: The Outdoor Plus Fire Features

Can I modify a design after I've placed an order?

Early in production, yes. Modifications become impossible once actual fabrication begins. That's why detailed design consultation upfront matters—catch changes before production starts. Contact your sales representative immediately if specification changes are necessary.

What's the difference between custom and their standard catalog options?

Standard options are pre-engineered and stock designs that avoid custom tooling costs, resulting in faster lead times (typically 8–12 weeks). Custom work offers unlimited configuration flexibility but requires full engineering and longer production. The Outdoor Plus can advise which approach fits your project and budget.

Are The Outdoor Plus pieces suitable for cold climates?

Yes, but specify accordingly. GFRC formulations can be adjusted for freeze-thaw performance. Gas fire boxes operate in cold weather. Water features in harsh climates require winterization planning—drain lines, cover protection, annual maintenance.

Can I integrate The Outdoor Plus features into an existing patio?

Usually, but site conditions matter. If you're adding a fire feature to established hardscape, assess:

• Structural capacity (especially on decks)
• Gas line access and routing
• Drainage (especially for water features)
• Aesthetic integration with existing materials

The Outdoor Plus can advise on feasibility, but contractor site assessment is essential.

What happens if an GFRC surface cracks or chips?

Minor surface cracks are cosmetic and don't affect performance. Deep chips can be repaired with epoxy, though perfection shouldn't be expected. If major structural failure occurs (rare with proper installation), The Outdoor Plus can discuss options, but costs will be significant. This underscores the importance of experienced installation.

Do you offer financing for custom projects?

Check with your sales representative about available financing partnerships. Custom work budgets are substantial, and flexible payment options may be available.

Final Assessment: Is Custom Right for Your Project?

The Outdoor Plus isn't for every project. They're ideal when:

• Your client has a specific vision for how the fire feature integrates their space
• Timeline allows 12+ weeks for production
• Budget supports premium pricing
• The project benefits from custom engineering (complex water features, integrated seating, specific performance requirements)

They're less suitable when clients want immediate installation or budget constraints are tight.

For high-end residential projects, luxury resorts, or any installation where the fire feature is a centerpiece of the entertaining space, The Outdoor Plus offers unmatched customization and quality. The lead time investment pays dividends in a finished product that's genuinely one-of-a-kind.

Looking for other premium outdoor kitchen and fire feature options? Explore our Fire Magic series comparison or our guide to Bull BBQ outdoor kitchens.