Outdoor Kitchens & Fireplaces

Custom Concrete Outdoor Kitchens & Fireplaces in Bellingham, WA

Outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular throughout Bellingham and Whatcom County as homeowners seek to maximize use of their properties year-round. Despite our reputation for rain, Bellingham's mild temperatures and beautiful summer weather make outdoor kitchens and gathering spaces excellent investments—particularly when properly designed with covered structures that extend usability into the shoulder seasons. Concrete plays a crucial role in these outdoor spaces, providing durable countertops, structural support for built-in appliances, fire pit surrounds, fireplace hearths, and built-in seating that withstand our Pacific Northwest climate.

Bellingham's Outdoor Living Culture (Rain or Shine)

Bellingham residents embrace outdoor living more than the rainfall statistics might suggest. From late April through October, our community spends countless hours on patios, decks, and in backyards, taking advantage of mild temperatures, long summer days, and stunning views of Mount Baker and Bellingham Bay. Increasingly, homeowners are investing in covered outdoor structures—pergolas, pavilions, and roof extensions—that allow comfortable outdoor entertaining even during the rainy months.

This outdoor culture makes well-designed outdoor kitchens and fireplace features particularly valuable. A covered outdoor kitchen in neighborhoods like Edgemoor, Fairhaven, or South Hill becomes a true extension of the home's living space, used for family dinners from May through September and for hardy entertaining year-round. An outdoor fireplace or fire pit creates ambiance and warmth for cool summer evenings and fall gatherings, allowing outdoor use well beyond the peak summer months.

Concrete Countertops for Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchen countertops must withstand conditions that would quickly destroy interior materials: temperature fluctuations, constant moisture exposure, freeze-thaw cycles, UV radiation, and potential impacts from dropped tools or serving dishes. Concrete is an ideal outdoor countertop material, offering durability, customization options, and resistance to Bellingham's marine climate when properly sealed.

Our outdoor concrete countertops include:

Custom dimensions and shapes to fit specific layouts and appliances
Integrated sinks and drain boards formed directly into the concrete
Built-in trivets and hot pan areas for grilling convenience
Reinforcement for overhang areas (bar seating or table extensions)
Color options through integral pigments or acid staining
Edge profiles from simple square edges to decorative bullnose or ogee profiles
Embedded features like cutting boards, ice bins, or bottle openers

The key to long-lasting outdoor concrete countertops in Whatcom County is proper sealing. We apply commercial-grade sealers specifically designed for exterior exposure and food contact surfaces. These sealers protect against moisture intrusion (our primary concern in Bellingham), staining from food and beverages, UV degradation, and minor scratching. We recommend resealing every 2-3 years for maintained protection.

Edgemoor outdoor kitchen project: We created custom concrete countertops for an extensive covered outdoor kitchen overlooking Bellingham Bay. The design included an 18-foot L-shaped counter with integrated stainless steel sink, 42-inch bar seating overhang, and cutouts for a built-in gas grill, side burner, and refrigerator. We formed the concrete to include a drain board area next to the sink and embedded a cutting board holder. The countertops were colored with earth-tone integral pigment, finished with a hand-troweled texture, and sealed with a two-part commercial sealer. The installation has withstood five Pacific Northwest winters without any deterioration, providing a beautiful and functional outdoor cooking space.

Weatherproof Sealing for Marine Climate Exposure

Bellingham's marine climate is particularly challenging for outdoor concrete features. Our high humidity, frequent rain, and proximity to saltwater (especially in neighborhoods near Bellingham Bay like Edgemoor, Fairhaven, and Squalicum) create constant moisture exposure. Additionally, occasional freezing temperatures mean water that penetrates concrete can expand and cause spalling or cracking.

Our sealing approach for outdoor concrete in Whatcom County includes:

Proper curing before sealer application (minimum 28 days for most sealers)
High-quality penetrating sealers that protect from within rather than surface coatings that can trap moisture
Multiple sealer coats for maximum protection (typically 2-3 applications)
Food-safe sealer options for countertops and dining surfaces
UV-resistant formulations that won't break down in sunlight
Maintenance recommendations including cleaning procedures and resealing schedules

We've found that properly sealed concrete outdoor features in Bellingham require resealing every 2-4 years depending on exposure and use. Covered structures naturally last longer between sealings than fully exposed features.

Fire Pit & Fireplace Regulations in Bellingham

Outdoor fires are regulated in both Bellingham city limits and Whatcom County to protect air quality and prevent accidental property damage. Before installing any fire feature, homeowners need to understand current regulations, which can vary by location and property size.

City of Bellingham fire pit regulations include:

Gas fire pits are generally allowed without permits (though building permits may be required for built-in structures)
Wood-burning fire pits may require approval and must meet specific distance requirements from structures and property lines
Solid fuel regulations implemented by the Northwest Clean Air Agency limiting wood burning on poor air quality days
Setback requirements (typically 15-25 feet from structures depending on jurisdiction)
Chimney and spark arrestor requirements for permanent fireplaces

Whatcom County regulations outside city limits may differ, particularly in rural areas where open burning regulations apply. We help homeowners research applicable regulations and design fire features that comply with all local requirements.

Many Bellingham homeowners are choosing gas fire pits and fireplaces due to the regulatory simplicity, convenience (no wood storage or ash cleanup), and ability to use them during burn bans. We install concrete surrounds for both gas and wood-burning fire features, with designs customized to the heat source and intended use.

Concrete Fire Pit Surrounds & Seating Walls

Fire pits have become backyard staples throughout Whatcom County, providing gathering spaces for cool summer evenings and extending outdoor season enjoyment into fall and spring. Concrete is ideal for fire pit surrounds, offering heat resistance, durability, and design flexibility.

Our concrete fire pit installations include:

Fire pit rings or bowls (gas or wood-burning) set into concrete surrounds
Raised seating walls at comfortable height (typically 18 inches) with cap stones
Integrated bench seating with concrete seat caps and decorative bases
Stamped or stained concrete patios surrounding the fire feature
Built-in log storage for wood-burning fire pits
Proper drainage to prevent water accumulation in fire pit areas

Fairhaven fire pit patio project: We installed a custom fire pit area for a historic home with a large backyard. The design included a 12-foot-diameter circular stamped concrete patio (flagstone pattern) with an integrated gas fire pit in the center. We formed curved concrete benches on two sides of the circle, providing permanent seating for 6-8 people. The benches have stamped concrete decorative bases matching the patio and smooth-troweled seat caps for comfort. The gas line was run underground and coordinated with a licensed plumber. The homeowners use this space from April through October, often with blankets and coats on cooler evenings, taking advantage of the fire's warmth and ambiance.

Integration with Pacific Northwest Landscaping

Outdoor kitchens and fire features in Bellingham should complement our region's natural landscape aesthetic. We work with homeowners and landscape designers to integrate concrete elements with native plantings (sword ferns, salal, Oregon grape), regional stone accents (basalt, granite boulders), and natural wood elements (cedar pergolas, fir beams).

Popular design approaches in Bellingham include:

Natural stone veneer over concrete structures to blend with Northwest landscape
Earth-tone concrete colors (tans, browns, grays) that complement cedar and stone
Stained or textured concrete mimicking natural materials
Integration with existing landscape features like retaining walls or garden beds
Native plantings around concrete structures to soften edges and provide screening

Built-In Seating & Entertainment Areas

Permanent concrete seating eliminates the need for outdoor furniture that deteriorates in Bellingham's weather or requires storage during winter months. We design and install concrete benches, seat walls, and integrated seating areas that provide comfortable, low-maintenance gathering spaces.

Built-in concrete seating options include:

Raised seat walls with comfortable cap stones (18-inch height is standard)
Curved benches formed to follow patio edges or garden beds
L-shaped seating maximizing corner areas
Integrated planters combining seating with landscape elements
Backrests for extended comfort (typically 15-18 inches high)
Storage cavities within seat wall structures for cushions or outdoor supplies

For comfort, concrete seat walls are typically capped with smooth-troweled or polished concrete, natural stone, or even wood insets that provide a warmer feel. Seat dimensions follow ergonomic standards: 18 inches high, 15-18 inches deep, with backrests positioned appropriately for comfortable long-term seating.

Concrete Pizza Oven Pads & Hearth Bases

Outdoor pizza ovens have gained popularity throughout Bellingham as homeowners embrace artisan cooking and outdoor entertaining. Whether installing a pre-fabricated pizza oven unit or a custom masonry oven, a proper concrete base is essential for supporting the substantial weight (600-2,000 pounds) and providing a stable, level foundation.

Pizza oven base requirements include:

Load calculations ba
Reinforced concrete slab (minimum 4 inches thick, often 6 inches for heavier ovens)
Proper base preparation with compacted crushed rock
Level installation (critical for even heat distribution and proper cooking)
Integration with surrounding patio or deck for convenient access
Heat-resistant work surfaces adjacent to oven for food preparation

We've installed pizza oven bases throughout Whatcom County, from standalone units in backyard patios to ovens integrated into comprehensive outdoor kitchen designs. Each installation considers the oven type, intended use frequency, surrounding materials, and property layout.

Entertainment Area Design for PNW Weather

The key to maximizing outdoor space use in Bellingham is designing for our actual climate, not aspirational California-style weather. That means covered structures, windbreaks, and heating elements that extend comfortable outdoor time beyond the peak summer months.

Design considerations for Bellingham outdoor entertainment areas:

Covered structures (pergolas with polycarbonate roofing, solid roof extensions, retractable awnings)
Heat sources (fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, infrared heaters) for cool evenings and shoulder seasons
Wind protection (privacy walls, landscape screening, strategic placement near house)
Drainage design ensuring water doesn't pool on patios or seating areas
Lighting integration for extended evening use and ambiance
Storage solutions for cushions, grilling tools, and outdoor dining supplies

South Hill entertainment area project: We completed a comprehensive outdoor kitchen and fireplace project for a family wanting to maximize their sloped lot's view potential. The design included a 400-square-foot covered concrete patio (stamped with ashlar slate pattern), an outdoor kitchen with concrete countertops and built-in gas grill, and a stone-veneered outdoor fireplace providing both ambiance and warmth. We installed concrete seat walls on two sides of the patio creating permanent seating for 10-12 people. The covered structure allows the family to use the space comfortably from April through October and occasionally during mild winter days. The concrete has performed excellently through four Pacific Northwest winters with only routine cleaning and sealing maintenance.

Serving Bellingham & Whatcom County Outdoor Living Projects

We design and install outdoor concrete features throughout Bellingham and Whatcom County—from Edgemoor estates with expansive bay views to Birchwood family homes, from Fairhaven historic properties requiring sensitive designs to Sudden Valley vacation homes around Lake Whatcom. Our crews understand the technical requirements of outdoor concrete work and collaborate effectively with landscape contractors, deck builders, and outdoor kitchen specialists.

Every outdoor kitchen or fireplace project includes our standard warranty covering concrete workmanship and materials. We're fully licensed and insured in Washington State with L&I contractor registration and comprehensive liability coverage. Our team can coordinate any required permits and works with local inspectors to ensure code compliance.

Ready to discuss your outdoor kitchen, fireplace, or entertainment area project? Whether you're planning a complete outdoor living space or adding a fire pit to an existing patio, we'll provide detailed estimates and design recommendations tailored to Bellingham's climate and your property. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and receive a written proposal for your Whatcom County outdoor concrete project.

Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free estimate — we serve all of Bellingham and Whatcom County.