Outdoor Elegance: Summer Spaces with Stone

When warm weather rolls in, there’s nothing like taking the comforts of home outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, lounging with a book, or entertaining guests by the firepit, your outdoor space should reflect the same quality and personality as the rest of your home. One of the best ways to elevate your exterior design? Natural stone.

At Chippewa Stone, we know how powerful natural materials can be, especially when it comes to enhancing outdoor living spaces. From patios and kitchens to fire features and seating walls, the right stone can bring timeless style and functionality to your backyard or patio.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to incorporate durable, beautiful stone into your summer spaces, how to choose the right materials for outdoor use, and why natural stone remains a top choice for homeowners looking to create long-lasting elegance outdoors.

Natural stone offers benefits that go far beyond its good looks. It’s an investment in quality, longevity, and style. Here’s why it’s a smart choice for outdoor projects:

Durability

Stones like granite and soapstone are known for their strength and ability to withstand the elements. With proper sealing and care, many stones can handle rain, sun, and freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or fading.

Timeless Beauty

Unlike synthetic options, natural stone boasts unique veining, texture, and color patterns that make every slab one-of-a-kind. It never goes out of style and adds instant sophistication to your exterior design.

Heat and Weather Resistance

Outdoor surfaces must tolerate dramatic temperature shifts and direct sunlight. Materials like soapstone and granite are especially well-suited for withstanding summer heat, making them ideal for cooking areas and fire features.

Not all natural stones are created equal when it comes to exterior applications. At Chippewa Stone, we recommend focusing on materials that combine beauty with performance in outdoor settings.

Granite

Granite is a top pick for outdoor surfaces thanks to its incredible hardness and weather resistance. It stands up to heat, scratches, and moisture when sealed correctly. Granite works well for:

• Outdoor countertops and bars
• Firepit surrounds
• Grilling stations
  

Many colors of granite also resist UV damage, meaning your countertops won’t fade over time.

Soapstone

Soapstone is another excellent option for exterior installations. Naturally nonporous, it resists moisture, heat, and staining – no sealant required. It develops a natural patina over time, adding to its charm. Soapstone is ideal for:

• Outdoor kitchens
• Fireplace surrounds
• Dining surfaces
• Utility countertops
  

Just keep in mind that soapstone is a softer stone, so it may scratch more easily. Still, many homeowners love its aged, lived-in look.

Ready to get inspired? Here are the top ways to integrate natural stone into your backyard oasis:

1. Outdoor Kitchens & Bars

An outdoor kitchen isn’t complete without a beautiful and functional countertop. Granite is the most popular choice here due to its:

• Resistance to weather and UV rays
• High heat tolerance (think: hot pots and grill tools)
• Easy cleaning and maintenance
  

Soapstone is a close second, especially for those who love the soft, matte finish and patina that develops over time.

Pro Tip: Always use trivets for hot pans, even outdoors, especially with any resin-filled stones or softer surfaces like soapstone.

2. Firepits & Fireplaces

There’s nothing like gathering around a fire on a summer evening. Whether you opt for a built-in firepit or a grand outdoor fireplace, with proper installation techniques, natural stone delivers the look and strength you need.

3. Dining & Entertaining Spaces

Stone dining tables, serving surfaces, or cocktail bars are a fantastic way to elevate your patio. Use honed granite for a smooth surface that’s easy to wipe down after meals or drinks.

Keeping your outdoor stone in great shape means following a few key care tips:

Do:

• Use a stone-safe sealant as recommended (we apply a 15-year sealant at time of install!)
• Clean with pH-neutral, non-abrasive products
• Use hot pads or trivets on resin-filled or softer stones
• Cover countertops during harsh winters or long periods of disuse
  

Don’t:

• Use acidic or vinegar-based cleaners
• Let standing water sit too long (especially on lighter stones)
• Drag heavy furniture across stone surfaces
• Use metal tools directly on the surface
  

At Chippewa Stone, we provide specific care instructions tailored to the stone you choose, so you’ll never feel unsure about how to maintain your investment.

Installing stone outdoors requires expertise, especially when working with uneven ground, exposure to moisture, and outdoor temperature changes.

When you work with Chippewa Stone, you get:

• Expert recommendations for outdoor-friendly stone types
• Professional templating and installation
• 15-year sealant application at time of install

Ongoing support and care advice tailored to your project

Pairing stone with the right outdoor elements can elevate your entire space. Here are a few style ideas:

• Stone + Wood: Pair warm-toned granite with cedar furniture or wood decking.
• Stone + Metal: Add contrast with wrought iron chairs, black lanterns, or a steel pergola.

At Chippewa Stone, we love helping homeowners bring their outdoor dreams to life. Our team of experts will help you select the best material for your space, ensure it’s properly installed, and provide lasting advice on care and maintenance.

Whether you’re dreaming of a new grilling station, updating a tired patio, or adding a cozy firepit to your backyard, we’re here to help you do it with natural stone that will last for years to come.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or stop by our warehouse with your measurements and samples. Let’s build something beautiful – outside.