Water & Fire Elements in Scottsdale, AZ
Fire pits, fireplaces, fountains and water features bring warmth, sound and movement to a Scottsdale backyard. Elevated Grounds designs and builds custom water and fire elements that suit desert living, from gas fire pits for cool winter evenings to recirculating fountains that add a soothing focal point without wasting water.
FIRE & WATER
Water and Fire Features Built for Desert Living
Desert evenings are one of the best parts of living in Maricopa County. A fire feature extends patio season through cool winter nights, while the sound of moving water softens a hot afternoon and masks road or neighbor noise. Together they make an outdoor space feel finished.
We design each element to fit your patio, style and utilities. Options include gas fire pits and fire tables, outdoor fireplaces, fire bowls, pondless waterfalls, wall fountains and spillway bowls. Because we also build patios and seat walls and outdoor kitchens, every feature is integrated into a cohesive design. We handle residential and commercial projects with the same care.
✓ Gas fire pits, fire tables and outdoor fireplaces
✓ Pondless waterfalls, fountains and spillway bowls
✓ Recirculating systems that conserve water
✓ Designs that account for hard water and scale
✓ Stone, block, stucco and custom steel finishes
ROC #361161
Scottsdale, AZ
FEATURE OPTIONS
Custom Water and Fire Elements
Whether you want a gathering place for friends, a quiet spot to unwind or a dramatic focal point for your landscape, we design features that match your vision and the realities of the desert. We plan gas and electrical, choose finishes that resist sun and scale, and build each feature to be safe and easy to enjoy.
Fire Pits
Round, square or linear gas fire pits built in stone, block or steel, with seating space around them. A natural gathering spot for cool desert evenings from fall through spring.
Outdoor Fireplaces
Stucco, stone or block fireplaces that anchor a patio or ramada. Fireplaces create a strong architectural focal point and help define an outdoor living room.
Fire Tables & Fire Bowls
Fire tables give a place to set drinks around the flame, while fire bowls add drama along walls, pools or entries. Available in a range of shapes and finishes.
Pondless Waterfalls
Natural-looking rock waterfalls that recirculate from a hidden basin, with no open pond to maintain. They deliver sound and motion with less evaporation and fewer safety concerns.
Fountains & Spillway Bowls
Wall fountains, bubbling urns and spillway bowls suit courtyards and entries. Compact recirculating designs add a cooling sound without large water use.
Combined Fire & Water
Fire-and-water bowls, or a fire pit set near a fountain, create striking contrast. Ideal near a pool, pergola or seating area as a signature feature.
How We Build Your Water or Fire Feature
Water and fire features involve utilities, structure and finish work, so we follow a clear, organized process. From concept through gas, plumbing and electrical to the final test, we keep you informed and make sure each feature is safe, functional and beautiful.
01
Consultation
We visit your property to discuss style, location and use, and check gas service, electrical access, sightlines and nearby structures so each feature is planned safely and practically.
02
Design & Finishes
We present layout options and finish choices such as natural stone, stucco, block veneer or custom steel, explaining how each handles heat, UV and hard-water staining.
03
Free Estimate & Approvals
Your itemized estimate covers construction, gas, plumbing, electrical and finishes. If your HOA or jurisdiction requires approval or permits, we prepare the plans and paperwork.
04
Utilities & Foundation
We run gas lines, electrical and water supply as needed, then build footings or basins. Utility work is planned to keep lines protected and connections serviceable.
05
Construction & Finishing
The feature is built, finished and fitted with burners, pumps, nozzles or lighting. We pay close attention to stonework, edges and how the feature ties into surrounding hardscape.
06
Testing & Walkthrough
We fire up burners and run water systems, adjust flame height and flow, explain operation and care, and clean the site thoroughly before handing it over to you.
25+ Years
How it works
Why Choose Elevated Grounds for Water and Fire Features
Our 25+ years of experience in landscape and hardscape construction help us build features that look custom and work reliably. We understand how Arizona's hard water leaves scale on rocks and pumps, how UV fades finishes, and how monsoon dust affects water features. We design with those factors in mind so your feature stays attractive and easy to maintain.
As a family-owned, licensed, bonded and insured contractor under ROC #361161, we coordinate design, hardscape, gas, plumbing and electrical rough-ins under one contractor. That means fewer delays and clear communication from start to finish. Free estimates, 24/7 availability and payment by card, Apple Pay, Zelle or wire transfer make it easy. Call (480) 338-3377 to start.
What fire feature works best for Scottsdale backyards?
A gas fire pit or fire table works best for most Scottsdale backyards. It lights instantly, burns cleanly without smoke or embers, and suits the mild desert winter when evenings cool off quickly after sunset. Outdoor fireplaces are a great upgrade when you want a strong architectural focal point.
Choosing a fire feature
- Fire pit: social, round seating; ideal on a paver or travertine patio.
- Fire table: a ledge for drinks and plates; pairs well with lounge furniture.
- Fireplace: anchors a seating area under a ramada or shade structure.
- Fire bowls: accents along walls, steps, entries or pools.
How do water features hold up in Arizona heat and hard water?
Water features hold up well in Arizona when they are designed for evaporation and mineral scale. Recirculating systems, small exposed surfaces, shaded placement and finishes that hide white deposits keep them working and looking good. Regular light maintenance prevents buildup on pumps and nozzles.
- Place features where they get some afternoon shade to reduce evaporation.
- Use an automatic fill valve tied into your irrigation or water supply.
- Choose rough or darker stone that disguises scale.
- Clean filters and check pumps after monsoon dust storms.
How can I combine water and fire elements in one design?
Combining water and fire creates a striking focal point that works day and night. Fire-and-water bowls, a fireplace beside a wall fountain or a fire pit facing a pondless waterfall all create contrast and depth. Planning both together lets us share utility trenches and coordinate finishes.
- Use matching stone or custom steel on both features for a cohesive look.
- Add low-voltage lighting so water sparkles after dark.
- Surround features with low-water plants like agave, desert spoon and lantana for color.
Do you build water and fire features outside Scottsdale?
Yes. We design and build water and fire elements throughout our service area, including Chandler, Gold Canyon, Gilbert, Queen Creek and Florence. We manage HOA submittals and permits where required.
When should I install a fire or water feature?
Many homeowners start in late summer or early fall so a fire pit is ready for the cool season, and finish water features before spring. We build year-round and schedule utility and concrete work to suit the weather.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Thinking about adding a fire pit, fireplace or fountain? These answers address safety, water use, upkeep and cost for water and fire features in the Scottsdale area.
Is a gas or wood fire pit better in Scottsdale?
Gas fire pits are the most popular choice because they light instantly, produce no smoke or embers and require little cleanup. Many communities and HOAs also restrict wood burning. Wood offers a traditional campfire feel but needs more care and may face limits on air-quality days.
Do water features waste water in the desert?
A well-designed recirculating feature reuses the same water, so loss is mainly from evaporation and splash. Pondless waterfalls and compact fountains keep exposed surface area small, which reduces evaporation. Automatic fill valves top off water as needed without overfilling.
How do you deal with hard water scale on fountains?
Arizona's hard water leaves white mineral deposits as it evaporates. We choose finishes that hide or resist scale, design features that are easy to wipe down, and can recommend water treatment products. Periodic cleaning keeps stone and pumps looking and working well.
Can a fire pit be placed under a pergola or ramada?
It can, with proper planning. Clearances to the roof and nearby materials matter, and open-roof pergolas are generally better suited than low solid roofs. We follow manufacturer clearance guidelines and local codes when locating fire features near structures.
Are water features safe for kids and pets?
Pondless waterfalls and fountains with hidden basins are much safer than open ponds because there is no standing pool of water. Water drains into a covered reservoir below grade, which makes them a popular choice for families and pet owners.
What affects the cost of a water or fire feature?
Key factors include feature type and size, finish materials, gas line length, electrical and plumbing needs, pump or burner systems, site access and permits. We provide a free, itemized estimate so you understand exactly what is included before work begins.