Can you believe it’s February already? In the world of interiors PR, that means that ‘gardens’ and ‘outdoor entertaining’ are the subjects du jour. We’re delighted to have been chosen as the agency to help launch Canadian fire pit and water feature specialists, Solus Decor, into the UK market.

By way of introduction, we asked Solus CEO, Brad Carpenter, the reason for the UK launch and the few tips on what to look out for when choosing a fire pit. Take it away, Brad.

“Fire features and the explosion (no pun intended) of their popularity in North America is a burgeoning trend that started on the west coast of North America and has spread from Miami to Montreal and all points in between. The UK and Europe are not far behind in this move to bring stylish and contemporary heat, light and furniture to their patio decks and gardens. According to the ASLA (American Society of Landscape Architects) fire features are the number one feature in garden design today.

A trend to expand the outdoor space in the UK is nothing new. One of the most exciting trends in the last number of years in the UK has been to open up the kitchen or reception with extendable bi fold doors to allow the outdoors in and extend your lifestyle out. Although fire feature fans in the UK have had limited options in the past couple of years relative to North America; but that is all set to change with the introduction of Solus UK fire pits. Solus UK is pleased to be on the leading edge of this outdoor lifestyle and design wave coming to the UK and to Europe.

In both continents there has been a trend to live outside whenever possible as long as possible. Incredible advances in outdoor fabrics and furniture have allowed for al fresco dining – it is not just simply reserved for hot and sunny vacations anymore. In Canada and the northern United States, fire simply extends your spring and fall in addition to your summer evenings. It is an ideal way to maximize your time outside and provide a focal point for your family and friends.

Modern fire pits have some big advantages – the absence of wood smoke and upset neighbours being probably the principal one. The convenience of either bio fuel which is the most environmentally friendly fuel, natural gas or propane are all options you can now consider in your garden firepit design; each with its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your situation. Bio fuel and propane are portable if necessary, whereas natural gas needs to be affixed and plumbed in to a set location. Running costs of gas are generally less, although depending on location, lines can add up. With propane, you’ll be faced with finding clever ways to hide the unsightly white bottle. All fuels provide heat, ambiance, a place to tell stories or share a glass wine and all of this cannot be anything other than positive.”

If the thought of expanding your al-frestivities from March to November tickles your fancy, or you’re simply curious to see what Solus have to offer, please feel free to visit them at solusdecor.com – or in real life at the Grand Designs or Chelsea Flower Shows this spring.