From Concept to Cozy: Designing a Fire Pit with Eco-Friendly Paving for Himelhock B&B
Green Gathering: How We Built the Ultimate Fire Pit Experience
At Backyard Oasis, we take pride in creating outdoor spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional and sustainable. Our project at Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast in Caro, Michigan, is a perfect example of this. Working closely with the owner, Don Hall, we designed and installed a custom fire pit surrounded by our eco-friendly porous pave, along with a hot tub patio area, garden bed landscaping, and a pondless waterfall. The result is a series of inviting outdoor spaces that guests can't resist.
The Vision: Warmth, Relaxation, and Natural Beauty
Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast, nestled in the picturesque town of Caro, MI, offers a charming retreat for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway. Owner Don Hall envisioned transforming the property’s outdoor areas into a series of unique, relaxing spaces that would leave a lasting impression on his guests. His vision included a cozy fire pit, a soothing hot tub area, beautifully landscaped garden beds, and the tranquil sound of a pondless waterfall—all while reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability.
To bring this vision to life, we recommended using our eco-friendly porous pave material for the fire pit and hot tub areas. Made from recycled tires, porous pave allows water to flow through, reducing runoff and promoting natural drainage. This makes it an ideal choice for Michigan's climate, with its durability and slip-resistant surface perfectly suited for the region’s freeze-thaw cycles.
The Process: Crafting a Serene Outdoor Experience
We began the project by constructing the fire pit, which would serve as the focal point of the new outdoor space. Using natural stone, we created a fire pit that exudes rustic elegance, seamlessly blending with the historical charm of Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast. The fire pit was strategically placed to take full advantage of the surrounding landscape, offering guests a perfect spot to gather and relax.
Next, we installed the hot tub patio area, using the same porous pave material to create a comfortable, slip-resistant surface. The patio was designed to provide a secluded, relaxing space where guests could unwind in the hot tub while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
To enhance the aesthetic appeal of the property, we added garden bed landscaping around the fire pit and hot tub areas. We carefully selected a variety of plants that would thrive in Michigan’s climate, adding color, texture, and fragrance to the space. The garden beds were designed to create a seamless transition between the built elements and the natural landscape, enhancing the overall ambiance.

Finally, we installed a pondless waterfall, which adds a soothing sound element to the outdoor space. The waterfall was designed to be low-maintenance and eco-friendly, with water recirculating through a hidden reservoir. This feature not only adds to the tranquility of the space but also attracts local wildlife, further enhancing the guest experience.
The Result: A Series of Inviting Outdoor Spaces
Since the project’s completion, Don Hall has been thrilled with the positive feedback from guests. The fire pit area has quickly become a favorite spot for visitors at Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast, where they can gather around the fire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the serene ambiance. The hot tub patio area offers a relaxing retreat, while the garden beds and pondless waterfall add to the property’s natural beauty and charm.

For Don, these new outdoor spaces have added significant value to his property, enhancing both the guest experience and the overall appeal of Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast.
Why Add a Fire Pit, Hot Tub Patio, and Water Features with Porous Pave to Your Outdoor Space?
If you’re considering upgrading your outdoor area, adding a fire pit, hot tub patio, and water features with porous pave can be a game-changer. Here’s why:
Create Multiple Cozy Gathering Spots
A fire pit and hot tub become the heart of any outdoor space, offering warm and inviting spots for friends and family to gather. These features are perfect for creating memories, whether you're roasting marshmallows, enjoying a quiet evening, or relaxing in the hot tub.
Enhance Property Appeal
Well-designed outdoor features not only add functionality but also boost the aesthetic appeal of your property. They serve as focal points that draw people in and enhance the overall landscape design.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
By choosing porous pave for the areas surrounding your fire pit and hot tub, you’re making an environmentally conscious decision. Porous pave is made from recycled materials, reduces water runoff, and promotes natural drainage, all while providing a durable and attractive surface.
Add Tranquility with Water Features
A pondless waterfall adds a soothing sound element to your outdoor space, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Water features like these also attract local wildlife, enhancing the natural beauty of your property.
Durability and Safety
Porous pave is built to last, standing up to Michigan’s harsh weather conditions. Its slip-resistant surface makes it a safe option for high-traffic areas, giving you peace of mind that your guests can enjoy the space comfortably.
Increase Property Value
Investing in outdoor features like a fire pit, hot tub patio, and water features with eco-friendly paving can significantly increase the value of your property, making it a worthwhile investment for both your enjoyment and your home’s market appeal.
Create Your Own Cozy Retreat with Backyard Oasis
The project at Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast is just one example of how Backyard Oasis can help you transform your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to install a fire pit, hot tub patio, water features, or any other element, our team is here to help you design a space that meets your needs and reflects your commitment to sustainability.
Ready to start your own project?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you create a beautiful, eco-friendly outdoor retreat.
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