404 Landscape Design, Installation, and Management Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Firepits Firepits have become a popular addition to many landscapes. Firepits are usually integrated into the entertainment area and can range from very simple to elaborate and expensive designs. The design should complement the home and sur- rounding hardscape. The area around the fi repit is made of hard- scape materials, such as stone or pavers, to create a safe and secure location for the fi re. The center of the fi repit holds the fi rewood or a natural gas or propane burner. All fi repits must have a means for water drainage and adjustable ventilation for a successful fl ame. Firepit designs may be subject to local regulations and installation ordinances and may need to be submitted for review and approval, Figure 15-8. Hardscape Design Hardscape design provides an opportunity to use creativity while building function and fl ow through outdoor rooms and walkways. First, the designer must consider user safety when creating a hardscape design because much of the hardscape is designed for foot traffi c and movement of people through the area. Other important considerations include water fl ow and permeability through the materials, patterns, and acceptable slope for safety and drainage. Safety To ensure a safe hardscape design, a designer must consider multiple aspects of the site, includ- ing the slope of the land and the amount of daylight the area receives, especially at dusk and dawn. As stated earlier, slope is the rise and fall of the land surface or a change in elevation from a fi xed point. Rapid changes in slope should be avoided, as they are more likely to cause trips and falls. A designer can indicate up and down directions on steps using lighting, signage, or markings on the path. A handrail or marker post designating a change is helpful in the case of a step up or down. In the case of sight impaired persons, a series of tactile pavers may be used. Neil Podoll/Shutterstock.com Figure 15-8. Another popular feature is the open firepit. Firepits extend the utility of a living space, as many families enjoy late nights sitting around the fire. Seating may be built as part of the design, or enough space is provided to accommodate chairs. Neil Podoll/Shutterstock.com randy andy/Shutterstock.com