The area appears well-lit, although the fixtures do not appear in the photo. Perhaps some post lights behind the benches and get rid of the overhead carnival lights. Put a table top over the pit during the normal times, so the kids can kneel on the cushions all around and have a game board or activity/project area. When they get to be teenage, you can mount some screens in front of the area, so they can be hidden from your view, yet still at home, under your protection, and near the refrigerator.

There is something special about talking face to face across the fire pit. Good wood -> beautiful heat & coals without smoke.

A simple metal bowl looks fabulous, a Corten steel ring is simple or if you want to make a statement add one that doubles as a piece of art.

Has anyone come across such a thing? I'm attempting to find a larger rectangular unit that can put out more BTUs than a single propane tank can handle.