Before or after the season, braziers and outdoor fireplaces are the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors. But how do you choose between the two, and what criteria should you take into account? VULX helps you decide.
Brazier or outdoor fireplace: why compare?
What braziers and outdoor fireplaces have in common is their ability to bring warmth and conviviality to outdoor evenings, in your garden or terrace.
The brazierwith its simple design and often elegant appearance, is easy to move and install, making it an asset for those who like to reorganize their garden or terrace. It's perfect for creating an intimate, relaxed atmosphere around a log fire, whether for warming up or toasting a few marshmallows.
The outdoor fireplace is more imposing and offers a more permanent appearance. It is often the center of attention in outdoor design. Powerful in terms of heat, she is ideals for cool evenings. However, it requires a greater investment in terms of time and cost.
What are the main differences between braziers and outdoor fireplaces?
The brazier and the outdoor fireplace each have their own particularities that influence the way they transform an outdoor space. Both allow you to enjoy evenings al fresco, but their operation and aesthetics are different.
- The brazier is generally smaller and easier to install. Its open shape creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. There are also glazed braziers, such as the IGNIS of VULXa brazier can also be used in the garden or on the balcony. A brazier is equally at home in the garden or on the balcony. Its use is mainly focused on creating atmosphere, rather than providing a real source of heat.
- More imposing, the outdoor fireplace can be integrated into the design of the garden or terrace, adding character to the space. In terms of performance, it diffuses heat more efficiently, with its closed or semi-closed hearth channelling the heat better and reducing the risk of embers spattering. However, a fireplace often requires a greater investment, both for installation and maintenance.
Criteria to consider before choosing
In addition to aesthetics and price, there are several other criteria to consider when choosing between a brazier and an outdoor fireplace.
- The space you have available: if your garden is large, an outdoor fireplace can become a centerpiece that structures the space. On the other hand, if space is limited, or if you want to be able to modulate your installation, a brazier is more suitable. Easy to move around, it lets you choose the ideal location to suit your needs, whether for an intimate evening or a larger gathering.
- How you want to use it: If you're looking for a convivial atmosphere, where you can warm up watching the flames dance, the brazier is for you. On the other hand, if your aim is to create a real source of heat to extend the cooler evenings, you're better off opting for an outdoor fireplace.
- Your outdoor style: A brazier often brings a nomadic, bohemian spirit, perfect for a relaxed atmosphere. FUEGO of VULX, for example, creates a particularly pleasant “campfire” atmosphere. An outdoor fireplace adds a more sophisticated touch to your garden.
- Maintenance and everyday practicality: The simplicity of the brazier means it requires little care, although theputting out a brazier fire requires a few precautions. Simply empty the ashes and store it away in case of bad weather. An outdoor fireplace, on the other hand, requires more maintenance to ensure its smooth operation and durability.
The benefits of a brazier
- Simplicity and mobility: light and easy to move, it adapts to any space configuration, whether on a terrace, in a garden or even on a balcony, provided the latter is sufficiently spacious. This flexibility means you can change the ambience and layout of your outdoor space as you please, without the need for a fixed installation.
- User-friendliness: The brazier is a natural invitation to relax and share. Placed centrally, it creates a warm, intimate atmosphere. The dancing flames, the diffused, enveloping light and the scent of burning wood all contribute to creating a soothing, authentic atmosphere, ideal for convivial moments with friends or family.
- The possibility of use as a barbecue or plancha : some braziers come with a grill or plancha to place on the embers. Add a playful, gourmet touch to your evenings!
- A wide variety of models. Whether you prefer a rustic, modern, minimalist or more designer style, there's a brazier to suit everyone's taste. During the day, you can even use it as a decorative feature when it's not lit.
- Cost: Compared to an outdoor fireplace or other outdoor heating systems, it's more affordable to buy. What's more, it often runs on wood, a natural, renewable resource, making it an environmentally-friendly option.
- Low maintenance: Simply empty the ashes after each use and, depending on the brazier material, protect it from the elements to extend its life.
Some models even come with lids or protective covers to make storage easier.
Brazier or outdoor fireplace: what's best for your needs?
The choice between a brazier and an outdoor fireplace depends mainly on your needs, the size of your space, and the atmosphere you want to create.
The brazier, for mobility and ease of use
The brazier is often appreciated for its mobility and simplicity. It can be moved as required, making it ideal for smaller spaces or for those who like to regularly change the layout of their garden or terrace. Easy to install, it's usually ready to use in just a few minutes, and requires no landscaping work.
The outdoor fireplace: for personality and warmth
If your aim is to benefit from a more substantial heat source and create an architectural focal point in your garden, an outdoor fireplace is an excellent choice. It takes more time and money to install, but once installed, it adds undeniable charm and value to your garden. What's more, it diffuses heat more efficiently, making it usable longer into the season.
And for the pros ?
A brazier or outdoor fireplace is a great way to offer your guests a warm, convivial experience. Not only does this equipment enhance the unique character of B&Bs, guesthouses or restaurants, but it also allows you to extend evenings outdoors, even when temperatures drop, and to continue consuming digestifs or herbal teas, for example. They also represent a way of differentiating yourself from competing establishments by offering privileged moments, thus increasing the satisfaction and attractiveness of your establishment. This encourages customer loyalty and word-of-mouth, while adding value to the experience customer.
