Sunken fire pit and barbecue

[Prawns]

This clever backyard fire pit and barbecue uses an old water mains cutoff to create an outdoor entertaining area you can mow right over.

• The project
• How to build a fire pit
• More fire pit inspiration

The project

When I bought my first (and probably only) house a few years ago it needed a good yard clean-up, among a lot of other stuff.

I discovered some old water mains cutoffs underneath the jungle behind the back sheds. I always wanted a fire pit and wood barbecue, so I worked out something just with what I had laying around.

I laid the pipe on the ground sitting upright and started using the shovel around the outside of the pipe to make sure I got a nice circle.

I was a little worried about airflow for the fire (it's 60cm plus below ground) and was prepared to install a metal "breather" pipe from the bottom of the firepit to ground level if it was needed for airflow to the bottom but it wasn't necessary. 

I also made a dodgy wooden cover so nobody falls in and I can just mow over the top. 

How to build a fire pit

A well-designed fire pit provides a great space to come together with friends and family and can work as a decorative element in the landscape. Follow this step-by-step guide by experienced Bunnings Workshop community member Adam to build your own.

More fire pit inspiration

Check out these incredible projects shared by Bunnings Workshop community members and let us know if we can help create your own fire pit entertaining area in your backyard.

[Juli]

Loving the fire pits 

[Noyade]

Good afternoon @Prawns!

Looks fantastic - it really does.

"old water mains cutoff"

But that pipe. What is it - 500 mm diameter - 15 mm thick? Not something the average householder has laying around in the backyard. Do you know how much a section would be worth if someone wanted to replicate what you've made?

Or I wonder if the local council could be approached? Maybe they would have seconds?

Anyway, great idea. 👍