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While it may seem incongruous to think about a blazing fire in the dead of summer, the fact is when it comes to outdoor style, there’s nothing hotter – literally – than a fire feature. In some ways, it’s a throwback: After all, who appreciated a heap of burning embers more than our ancestors, the cavemen? Luckily for Southern Californians, cool evenings and a year-round temperate climate means that gathering around flickering flames can be a nightly ritual, both for grown-ups who think that nothing is finer than a fireside glass of pinot, and kids who know for certain that nothing beats the taste of a freshly charred marshmallow.

NAUTICAL BY NATURE
This jaunty fire pit will have you dreaming of sailing the high seas – or sunning on a yacht – when staring into its hypnotic flames. Composed of polished concrete, stainless steel and heavy-duty rope, the 42-inch-round, 22-inch-high Loop model comes in your choice of fuel type: natural gas, liquid propane or bioethanol. ($4,795)
Brown Jordan at SoCo Collection, 3323 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa, 949.760.6900

:: brownjordan.com

MIDCENTURY MODERN
If your taste runs to 1950s atomic ranches and rocket ships, the mod, eye-popping design of the Bonfire fireplace ($3,880) could become your newest obsession. Available in more than a half dozen colors, including turquoise, avocado and tangerine (pictured), the nearly 7-foot-tall beauty will give your patio an instant pop of pizazz and provide a playful focal point for festive gatherings.
Just Modern, 901 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, 760.322.5600 :: modfire.com

SLEEK AND STYLISH
With its clean design and low, 12.5-inch height, the Topanga fire table ($2,195) will undoubtedly look as stylish 10 years from now as it does today. Made from fibercast concrete – both weather- and heat-resistant – it comes in two finishes (limestone or slate) and in round and rectangular shapes in addition to the 43-inch square one shown.
Restoration Hardware at South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa, 714.540.1445

:: restorationhardware.com