Outback Concepts in Oklahoma City: Custom Fireplace Design and Build
Outback Concepts is a full-service fireplace contractor in Oklahoma City that handles design, installation, and renovation of wood-burning and gas fireplaces for residential and light commercial spaces. The company operates as a design-build firm, meaning clients work with the same team from consultation through completion rather than coordinating separately with architects and installers.
What Outback Concepts actually does
Outback Concepts specializes in custom fireplace construction, including masonry fireplaces, prefabricated insert installations, and gas appliance conversions. The company also performs fireplace repairs, chimney inspection, and hearth remodeling. Unlike big-box retailers that sell fireplace units and coordinate third-party installation, Outback Concepts manages the entire project in-house, including structural assessment, code compliance, and finishing work.
The company serves Oklahoma City proper and surrounding suburbs within a reasonable service radius, positioning itself as a mid-scale operation suitable for homeowners planning significant fireplace projects rather than simple maintenance calls.
Services and pricing
Outback Concepts charges for consultations and estimates, with fees varying based on project complexity. For new masonry fireplace installations, costs typically range from $4,000 to $12,000 depending on chimney height, hearth size, and surround finishes. Gas fireplace conversions and insert installations run $2,500 to $8,000. Repairs and inspections are priced individually; verify current rates by calling directly, as they adjust with material costs.
The company offers design consultations where homeowners review mockups, material samples, and structural plans before committing to construction. This upfront design phase prevents mid-project changes that inflate timelines and costs.
How Outback Concepts compares to other Oklahoma City fireplace services
Oklahoma City has three main fireplace service tiers: big-box retailers like Lowe's and Home Depot (product sales only, installation through licensed subcontractors), specialty fireplace shops like Fireplace Xtrordinaire that focus on gas inserts and stove sales with installation services, and full-design builders like Outback Concepts.
Choose Outback Concepts for custom masonry work, structural modifications, and projects requiring architectural integration. The design-build model reduces coordination headaches and holds one company accountable for the finished product. Choose a fireplace specialty shop if you want a gas insert in an existing fireplace with minimal construction. Choose a big-box retailer only if you need a basic prefab unit and are comfortable hiring and managing your own licensed installer.
Outback Concepts costs more than insert-only shops but less than hiring an architect separately and then contracting installation to an unrelated builder. The price difference reflects the design service and accountability built into the fee.
Who Outback Concepts suits and does not suit
This contractor suits homeowners planning a focal-point fireplace, those with existing fireplaces requiring major repair or renovation, and customers who value working with a single team that guarantees the finished product. It also works well for people who want custom surround design, whether stone, tile, or cabinetry, integrated with the fireplace structure.
Outback Concepts is not the right fit for simple maintenance tasks, chimney sweeps, or basic insert replacements in good condition. It is also not ideal for customers working on a very tight budget who need the cheapest possible option rather than design input.
What the first visit involves
Initial consultations typically occur at your home, where the team assesses the existing fireplace (if any), reviews structural conditions, discusses functional preferences, and explains code requirements for your property. You will walk through material options, fuel type (wood vs. gas vs. electric), and surround styles. The team takes measurements and photographs, then provides a written estimate with a timeline.
If you proceed, a construction start date is scheduled. The company coordinates permits with Oklahoma City, which normally takes one to two weeks. Construction timelines for new masonry fireplaces range from three to six weeks depending on season and complexity.
Hours, parking, and logistics
Call Outback Concepts to schedule a consultation; appointments are available weekdays and by arrangement on weekends. The company meets clients at their homes rather than maintaining a showroom, eliminating travel and parking considerations for the initial visit. Material selections occur during the consultation or at your home by arrangement.
Verify current contact information and scheduling directly, as business operations can shift. Ask about permit timelines and installation schedules when you call, as availability varies seasonally.
Why Outback Concepts matters in Oklahoma City
For homeowners committed to a fireplace as a lasting design element and structural feature, Outback Concepts eliminates the friction of assembling separate vendors and ensures accountability through a single contracted builder. The design-build approach is efficient and common in high-end home renovation work but rare enough in fireplace services that it distinguishes this company from the standard insert-shop model that dominates Oklahoma City.
