
Elementi vs The Outdoor Plus: Which Fire Pit Brand Wins for Style, Durability and Design?
Imagine your guests stepping outside at sunset — soft lights twinkling, a modern fire pit flickering in the center, and that instant “wow” that makes them reach for their phones.
If you host through Airbnb, VRBO, or manage vacation rentals, you already know: a well-chosen fire feature is more than décor — it’s an experience.
And when it comes to premium outdoor fire tables, two names dominate the market: Elementi and The Outdoor Plus.
Both create beautiful, high-performance fire pits, but their approach to design, craftsmanship, and functionality couldn’t be more different.
Let’s dive in and see which one truly deserves that prime spot on your patio.
Brand Backgrounds: The Story Behind the Flame
Elementi: Modern Living, Simplified
Founded by a team of designers and engineers with a passion for architectural concrete, Elementi focuses on creating ready-to-use luxury fire features that combine design simplicity with daily practicality.
Their products are defined by clean lines, natural tones, and plug-and-play usability — ideal for modern hosts who want a sophisticated look without professional installation headaches.
Every Elementi fire pit is crafted using Glass-Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) — a lightweight yet incredibly strong material that can mimic natural stone, withstand high heat, and resist cracking.
They also emphasize safety and consistency: CSA-certified components, reliable ignition systems, and a reputation for delivering consistent performance across every model.
The Outdoor Plus: California-Made Artistry
The Outdoor Plus (TOP), based in Ontario, California, takes a more artisanal route.
Every single piece — from the concrete molds to metal welds — is handcrafted in their U.S. facility.
TOP’s philosophy: fire as sculpture.
They see each fire pit as both a heat source and a design statement.
The company is known for custom fabrication — offering endless size, color, and material combinations that can match any architectural project.
They also serve commercial clients, resorts, and luxury residences that demand not just durability but exclusivity.
Expert Take: Elementi is a sleek global brand focused on efficiency and modern simplicity.
The Outdoor Plus is a homegrown craft powerhouse emphasizing customization and high-end materials.
Design & Style: Minimalist Elegance vs. Architectural Drama
Feature | Elementi | The Outdoor Plus |
---|---|---|
Design Aesthetic | Minimal, contemporary | Bold, architectural |
Palette | Soft neutrals: ash gray, beige, charcoal | Unlimited: metallics, concrete, custom powder coats |
Shapes | Round, square, rectangular classics | Linear tables, sculptural bowls, statement cubes |
Customization | Standardized models | Fully customizable |
Elementi’s Signature Look
Picture the calm elegance of European outdoor living: soft gray concrete, clean geometry, and furniture that blends seamlessly with nature.
Elementi fire tables are versatile chameleons — equally at home on a city balcony or beachfront patio.
Their signature pieces, like the Granville 60” Gas Fire Pit Table, feature smooth edges, linear proportions, and a natural texture that complements nearly any design palette.
The Outdoor Plus’ Design Philosophy
In contrast, The Outdoor Plus aims to turn outdoor heat into art.
Think Corten steel bowls with living patina, matte black concrete cubes, or hammered copper fire bowls glowing like sculpture.
Their Cabo Linear Fire Pit or Sedona Copper Bowl Series make bold, architectural statements — the kind you’d expect to see in luxury resorts.
Expert Insight: If you want understated luxury that fits anywhere, choose Elementi.
If you want to create a show-stopping centerpiece that gets photographed again and again, The Outdoor Plus wins on style.
Material Quality & Craftsmanship
Elementi: High-Performance Concrete Done Right
- Material: Glass-Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC)
- Core Strength: 3–5× stronger than standard concrete
- Weather Resistance: UV-resistant sealants prevent fading or cracking
- Finish: Hand-cast and sanded for natural texture
Every Elementi piece is poured and finished in specialized molds to ensure consistency. GFRC allows for realistic stone-like texture without the weight — a big plus for Airbnb hosts who may need to move or reposition furniture.
Additionally, GFRC resists temperature shock, meaning it won’t fracture after repeated heating and cooling cycles.
The Outdoor Plus: Heavy-Duty American Metals & Concrete
- Material Options: Corten steel, stainless steel, brass, copper, or hand-cast concrete
- Manufacturing: 100% U.S. fabrication with welded seams and precision burners
- Customization: Powder coating in 15+ colors, or custom RAL finishes
TOP’s fire pits feel industrial-grade. Each burner is tested before shipment, ensuring consistent gas flow and flame pattern.
Their metals are thick-gauge, rust-resistant, and built to last decades, not seasons.
The craftsmanship is visible — you can see the welds, feel the sturdiness, and sense that each piece was built by a skilled hand, not a machine line.
Heat Output & Performance
Feature | Elementi | The Outdoor Plus |
---|---|---|
BTU Output | 40,000–50,000 BTU | 60,000–100,000+ BTU |
Ignition Systems | Push-button spark or electronic | Match-lit, electronic, or automatic smart systems |
Flame Control | Moderate flame height, steady burn | Customizable flame length and intensity |
Fuel Options | Propane / Natural Gas | Propane / Natural Gas / Direct Line |
Elementi’s Experience:
Designed for comfort and convenience, Elementi models ignite quickly and produce a quiet, even flame. The warmth covers a medium patio — perfect for 4–6 guests.
The Outdoor Plus Experience:
The Outdoor Plus units are built for larger outdoor layouts. High-output burners provide strong, sculptural flames that hold up in breezy conditions. Custom setups can exceed 100,000 BTU for resort-level performance.
Expert Advice:
For small to mid-size Airbnb patios — Elementi hits the sweet spot.
For expansive decks or design-driven properties — The Outdoor Plus delivers both heat and drama.
Price, Warranty & Value
Brand | Average Price Range | Warranty | Ideal Buyer |
---|---|---|---|
Elementi | $800–$1,800 | 1-Year Limited | Airbnb/VRBO hosts, homeowners |
The Outdoor Plus | $2,000–$5,000+ | 1–3 Years | Luxury rentals, architects, resorts |
Elementi offers excellent mid-range value. You get high-end design at a manageable cost — an easy way to upgrade multiple listings without breaking budget.
The Outdoor Plus positions itself as a premium investment: higher upfront cost, but with superior materials, customizability, and lifespan that can exceed a decade.
Pro Host Tip:
If you manage several rentals, Elementi allows you to scale style affordably.
If you manage a flagship luxury property, The Outdoor Plus instantly elevates brand perception — and guests notice.
Real-World Use: How Each Performs for Airbnb & Vacation Rentals
Elementi in Action
Hosts consistently praise Elementi’s simplicity: unbox, connect propane, light, and go. No professional setup required.
Its smooth GFRC surface cleans easily, and the neutral tones photograph perfectly in listing photos.
Guests appreciate intuitive controls and safe, consistent flames — no learning curve needed.
Host Review Insight: Many Airbnb owners report increased engagement and higher nightly rates simply after updating photos featuring a lit Elementi fire table at dusk.
The Outdoor Plus in Action
Luxury villa hosts and boutique resort managers love TOP for its wow factor.
Because it’s custom-made, the fit and finish are flawless.
The ability to match finishes to furniture or outdoor architecture — say, a matte black linear table beside a pool or a copper bowl against white stucco — makes every space feel intentionally designed.
Host Review Insight: Guests often call out “the incredible fire pit” in reviews, creating organic word-of-mouth promotion and photo shares on social media.
Design Tips: How to Style Each Brand
For Elementi:
- Pair with warm outdoor rugs and woven pillows for soft contrast.
- Use lanterns or low lighting to complement its modern simplicity.
- Great under gazebos, pergolas, or patio umbrellas.
For The Outdoor Plus:
-
Leave open sky above to show off the tall flame visuals.
-
Surround with sleek sectional seating or stone benches for luxury resort vibes.
-
Use landscape lighting to highlight textures and finishes.
Design Hack: Always position your fire feature as the focal point of your outdoor flow — either centered for gatherings or aligned with the property’s best view.
Maintenance: What It’s Like to Live With
Both brands are designed to be low-effort, but there are differences.
Elementi Maintenance
- Simple wipe-downs and a cover after use
- Periodic burner check every few months
- Optional glass wind guard for windier areas
The Outdoor Plus Maintenance
- Minimal cleaning required, but metal finishes benefit from protective wax or sealer
- Slight patina development (especially copper or Corten) adds character
- Burners rated for long-term outdoor exposure with professional-grade fittings
Expert Recommendation: For multiple listings, Elementi’s set-and-forget design saves time. For one showcase property, The Outdoor Plus’ premium materials are worth the extra attention.
Photography & Guest Experience Value
Elementi:
Its neutral concrete tones make photography easy. Warm firelight bounces beautifully off pale gray finishes, helping you capture that coveted “golden hour glow” for listing photos.
The Outdoor Plus:
These pieces photograph like sculptures — shiny copper, matte black steel, or hand-cast concrete with deep shadows. Their larger flames add drama and scale.
Host Strategy: Add a small bistro setup or wine glasses near your fire pit before photographing your space — it creates storytelling energy that drives clicks.
ROI Breakdown: How Each Adds Value
- Elementi: Quick aesthetic upgrade, minimal maintenance, noticeable rise in booking appeal.
- The Outdoor Plus: Long-term brand asset for premium rentals — boosts perceived luxury, supports higher pricing tiers, and creates repeat customers.
A well-styled outdoor area can increase nightly rates by 10–25% and improve conversion by 30% in listing views. Fire features are emotional triggers — they sell comfort and connection, not just heat.
Expert Verdict
Choose Elementi if you want:
- Effortless setup and low maintenance
- Contemporary design that fits any aesthetic
- A practical price point for multiple properties
Choose The Outdoor Plus if you want:
- Custom craftsmanship and U.S.-made quality
- Sculptural, high-BTU performance pieces
- A long-term investment that elevates brand perception
Pro Host Summary:
Elementi is your everyday hero — clean, reliable, photo-ready.
The Outdoor Plus is your statement piece — dramatic, hand-built, unforgettable.
Ready to Create Your Perfect Outdoor Oasis?
At Optimal Outdoor Oasis, we curate both Elementi and The Outdoor Plus collections — hand-picked for Airbnb hosts, homeowners, and designers who want spaces that feel as good as they look.
👉 Shop Elementi Fire Pits — for modern simplicity and effortless hosting.
👉 Explore The Outdoor Plus Collection — for bespoke, luxury-grade fire artistry.
👉 Need guidance? Our team can help match the right size, finish, and flame output for your property.
Because your next five-star review might start by the firelight.