A fire feature can completely change the way an outdoor space is used. It can create a natural gathering point, extend the usable season, and add another layer of warmth and atmosphere to a garden or outdoor living area. 

But not every fire feature serves the same purpose. A traditional fire pit, architectural fireplace, and fire table each create a different experience and can have very different impacts on the design of a space.

When planning an outdoor living area, it is worth considering not only how the fire feature looks, but also how people will gather around it, how much space it requires, and how it works with the surrounding architecture.

Fire Pits

Fire pits are one of the most flexible ways to introduce fire into an outdoor space. Because they are generally open on all sides, seating can be arranged around the fire, creating a natural gathering area.

A fire pit can be as simple as a low masonry structure or as refined as a custom architectural feature integrated in...

A home's entrance is more than just a doorway. It is the transition between the outside world and the space within, setting the tone for the architecture that follows. One of the most elegant ways to enhance this transition is with a thoughtfully designed portico.

For centuries, porticos have been used to create grand entrances, provide shelter from the elements, and add architectural character to homes of every style. Whether inspired by classical architecture or interpreted with a more contemporary approach, a well-designed portico brings both beauty and function to a home's exterior.

At FineHouse, we believe every outdoor structure should be designed with intention. A custom portico not only improves curb appeal but also creates a welcoming entrance that complements the home's overall architectural style.

What Is a Portico?

A portico is a covered entrance supported by columns or posts that projects from the front of a building. Unlike a full porch, a portico is typically designe...

When planning an outdoor structure, ventilation may not be the first thing that comes to mind. Homeowners and designers often focus on the structure's size, materials, roof design, and overall appearance, but proper airflow can play an important role in how comfortable and durable the finished space will be.

From pavilions and gazebos to enclosed garden rooms and other covered structures, ventilation can help manage heat, moisture, and air movement. For landscape professionals, considering ventilation early in the design process can lead to outdoor spaces that perform better and remain more comfortable throughout the year.

Ventilation Helps Control Heat

One of the most noticeable benefits of ventilation is improved comfort.

Covered outdoor structures can trap heat, particularly during the summer. Warm air naturally rises, which means heat can collect near the ceiling or roof. Without a way for that hot air to escape, the space underneath can become significantly warmer than the sur...

□ Define How You'll Use Your Pergola

Before choosing a style or size, think about the pergola's purpose.

-Outdoor dining area

-Lounge or conversation space

-Outdoor kitchen

-Hot tub or spa cover

-Garden feature

-Poolside shade

-Outdoor workspace

Knowing how you'll use the space will influence nearly every design decision that follows.

□ Choose the Best Location

Walk around your property and consider:

-Sun exposure throughout the day

-Existing trees and landscaping

-Views you want to highlight

-Areas you'd like to screen from neighbors

-Wind exposure

-Drainage after heavy rain

A pergola should complement both your home and your landscape.

□ Measure Your Space

Before selecting a pergola size:

-Measure the available area.

-Leave enough room for walkways.

-Account for furniture dimensions.

-Ensure doors and gates have adequate clearance.

-Consider roof overhangs and nearby structures.

Pro Tip: Consider using props, such as ropes and buckets as the perimeter an...

An outdoor living space should feel like a natural extension of your home, comfortable, intentional, and designed around the way you actually live. Whether you’re creating a quiet retreat for relaxing mornings or a space built for entertaining guests, functionality is what transforms a backyard into a true outdoor living experience.

The best outdoor spaces balance beauty with usability. A thoughtfully designed pergola, pavilion, or garden structure doesn’t just improve the look of your property, it creates an environment that supports the way you gather, dine, work, and unwind outdoors.

Start with How You Want to Use the Space

Before choosing materials, furniture, or finishes, think about how the space will function day to day. The most successful outdoor living areas are designed with purpose.

Ask yourself:

What will this space primarily be used for?
Do you want an outdoor dining area?
Are you looking for shade near a pool or patio?
Will the space need protection from sun or rain...

In landscape design, every material tells a story — of craftsmanship, durability, and aesthetic intent. Few materials express all three quite like copper. With its warm sheen, graceful aging process, and remarkable weather resistance, copper doesn’t just complement garden structures — it enhances them, season after season.

At FineHouse, we believe every detail should serve both form and function. Copper excels at both.

A Living Finish That Ages with Grace

Copper begins its life outdoors with a brilliant, burnished glow — a statement of elegance and warmth. But its true beauty is revealed over time, as exposure to air and moisture naturally transforms its surface. Without any intervention, copper develops a patina that gradually shifts from golden hues to deep umber, and ultimately to shades of blue-green and soft gray.

This transformation is one of copper’s most valued traits. It doesn't deteriorate — it evolves. The material reflects its surroundings and responds to climate and...

At FineHouse, we specialize in a unique offering: bespoke prefabricated garden structures. These designs combine the flexibility and personalization of bespoke solutions with the efficiency and convenience of prefabrication, giving you the best of both worlds.

Customization Without Compromise
FineHouse’s bespoke prefabricated kits are tailored to your preferences, ensuring your structure aligns with your vision and complements your property. You have the freedom to choose materials, finishes, and styles that reflect your aesthetic while benefiting from the precision and consistency of a prefabricated approach.

Efficiency Meets Elegance
Unlike traditional bespoke structures, which can require lengthy timelines, our prefabricated kits are designed for streamlined assembly. The components are crafted to exacting standards, allowing for a quicker installation process without sacrificing quality or detail.

Quality That Lasts
Every FineHouse prefabricated kit is built using premium materials...

A water level can be a very efficient and cost effective alternative to a laser level. When in the field a water level can allow the ability to maneuver around corners.

So the client eventually settled on this design for the south side of the garden (the private side), but had not decided on a gate or materials yet. We proposed SynCore, our own composite material, Accoya, the premiere natural wood product with a 50 year warranty, or Sapele, a tropical hardwood like Mahogany, but less expensive.

The client ultimately decided on Accoya for all of the components, both for it's long life, and it's sustainability. Also, the decision was made to make everything white.

Arched Entry Scheme Selected for South Entrance

On the North side of the garden the owner wanted to make a more meaningful statement, as this was going to to be the public face of the garden. The gate decision was made here also, and we would be putting a matching garden gate at the South side as well.

 Public Facing Arbor with Gate

  Mid project a lower garden was added to the project along with additional picket fencing, a complimentary gate, and some architectural...