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

I had 3 female joeys and two bedrooms which led to constant 2 -v- 1 situations so nights were generally a game of musical beds. There was always one child who needed time out or was given time out. When we added the extra bedroom, the serenity was bliss. They could still share when they wanted but it was all up to them, it was not forced on them so relationships definitely improved after that. I think the age of the children and the age difference is a very important aspect. Younger children are more than happy to share for the security and comfort when the lights go out. Older children need their space and privacy especially for study. Children after puberty can get extremely sensitive about their bodies and need privacy more than ever in this adjustment period. You cannot expect to put say an 8 year old with a 3 year old - by 8 kids are usually developing attachments to "special" keepsakes, something 3 year olds don't understand and this can cause a lot of resentment when things get broken or trashed. Pre children I always felt them sharing bedrooms would lead to wonderful relationships, the children would learn to share, care and appreciate each other. Now I'm older and wiser, separate bedrooms is sanity for everyone.

We all know that fire pits are great for the colder months - the warmth they provide means you can use your outdoor space almost all year round. However, I am interested to know what people think about fire pits in the summer months. Do you loath the space your fire pit takes up in summer and wish it was a drinks cooler instead. Or do do even hide your fire pit away in the shed until the weather cools down again? Or, are you a die-hard fire-gazer and light the fire on summer evenings to give your space ambiance and keep the bugs away. Is gas, ethanol or timber better for a summer fire pit?

You could have a sunken built in area or even a fire bowl on a paved area, agree that you need to work with the area you are planning on putting the fire pit/ bowl , talking with a designer /landscaper will give you options and ideas that will bring your design to life and create a beautiful space