Summer is here (finally), and for the first time since moving to rainy old Manchester, I feel like the weather is finally on my side. Okay, so the sunshine isn’t going to last, but heck, that’s not going to stop me getting involved in the garden décor scene – and neither should it you.

Outdoor fireplaces have been getting cheaper and more accessible for a while now, with chimineas at long last sweeping back into fashion. Easy to set up and impressive looking, these tall, Mexican-style fires are an effective and inexpensive way to spice up your garden.

What is a Chiminea?

Chimineas are basically large, pear shaped pots, with elongated tops and a hollow centre in the middle which houses a fire, as well as the wood/coal/biofuel used to feed the flames.  Chimineas were supposedly invented hundreds, if not thousands of years ago in southern Mexico. Clay was dug from riverbeds and moulded into crude pots, which were heated in makeshift kilns. The result were large, distinctly shaped pots that could be used for both campfire heating and cooking food.

This ancient tradition has survived for centuries, and has now resurfaced as a stylish and practical way to both decorate gardens and host barbecues. Having a chiminea in the modern day has a great number of advantages, including the following:

• They are a great source of outdoor heating.
• They can make a beautiful focal point to gather around, especially in the evening.
• They are Relatively inexpensive.
• They are easy to set up and light.
• Low maintenance - just purchase a cover for rainy days and you can leave them outside all year!
• Safety - many offer fire grates to cover the flame.
• Many chimineas can also be used to barbecue food.
• There are a great variety of styles, shapes, fuel types and materials to choose from.

One thing that has changed since ancient times is the sheer variety of Chimineas that are avilable . From tiny candle burners to gigantic cast iron behemoths, you have a tough choice ahead if you decide to invest in one. Below is a basic breakdown of some of the more common varieties.


 

1. Mexican Clay Chimineas

Definitely one of my favourites, clay chimineas are usually based on the original classic Mexican design. I really love the way the clay gives the shape and colour an irregular, rustic look, imbuing it with an almost organic quality that makes it perfect for outside use. These types of chiminea, in true Mexican fashion, often make great use of colour and texture, and so are perfect for pairing up with an equally colourful garden, or for giving some spark to a dull one.

2. Cast Iron Chimnea

Bigger, bolder, and much more cast iron-y than their clay counterpart, cast iron chimineas were developed as an alternative to the classic design. Apart from having a more dramatic and formidable appearance, cast iron chimineas are much more durable than any other type of chiminea, and are able to withstand higher temperatures for much longer. They are also often assembled in pieces using nuts and bolts, meaning transportation and delivery of them is often easier. If you feel your garden is lacking in character or could do with a strong focal point, a cast iron chiminea would be ideal.

3. Modern Chimineas

Despite being an ancient design, it doesn't mean your chiminea has to be stuck in the past. In fact, many companies produce extremely modern, contemporary chimineas that double in function as works of art in their own right. Modern chimineas come in a huge range of colours, sizes and shapes, from straight lined, minimalist varieties to large, opulent creations with lots of bells and whistles. Many also come with a built in barbeque, so be sure to shop around to find one that’ll be perfect for your garden.


 

4. Candle Chimineas

If your budget is a little smaller, then a more petite candle chiminea might just be up your street. Although not much use for heating (or cooking for that matter, unless you're cooking a single baked bean), candle chimineas are a cute and effect way to add some charm to your garden. Although small, when you pop in a candle and dim the porch lights they look superb, and when grouped together or nestled around your plant pots can create a harmonious atmosphere both outside the house and inside. For me, the traditional clay varieties like the ones below just can't be beat!

  
    
As you can see, chimineas can be beautiful, and if selected properly will completely change the look and feel of your garden. Although you may not be sure if these charismatic fires are for you, especially if you live in the city centre like me (although that doesn't mean you can't have an inspiring garden according to this post by Abigial Ahern), chimineas are relatively cheap, so I say if unsure, just go for it!


Image Credits: Header Image - White Stores, Image 1 - Garden Gear, image 2 - Will and Mary, Image 3 - Garden More, Image 5 Chiminea -  Image 6 - Home Hardware direct