Brick ovens provide an exterior option for baking and cooking. The oven originated in Italy, where brick oven pizza is to this day made as it was in the past. Traditionally these ovens were wood-fired, although coal-fired, electrically powered, and gas-fired options are also available. This form of oven is not confined to Italy. It is also seen in France, India – in the form of clay ovens, and the other parts of Europe.

Brick ovens provide two options: build it yourself, or buy one and have it installed professionally. Should money be an issue, building you own is a simple and inexpensive task. They are made of fireproof brick, concrete, stone, clay or cob. The main materials for a DIY project are brick and mortar, both fireproof. This project is not very time consuming. First you must decide what shape and size you want. They can have rounded tops or flat tops. Many restaurants use the round top that is gas-fired. This gives it a more rustic Italian look. Once decided, the following two websites have information and step-by-step instructions on how to build one. They are low cost and aesthetically pleasing.

http://www.fornobravo.com/pompeii_oven/pompeii_oven.html

http://www.motherearthnews.com/Do-It-Yourself/Build-An-All-In-One-Outdoor-Oven-Stove-Grill-And-Smoker.aspx