With so many styles of fireplace to choose from, there’s a lot more to the process than just dreaming of a warm and toasty living space. There are several things to think about before installing a fire, and that’s what today’s article is all about.
These are just a few things to consider when trying to find the perfect fireplace for your home.
The style of your home
A sleek and modern fire might not look the part in your period townhouse. And an old style gas fireplace will look out of place in a modern new build. Antique style fireplaces look stunning on an exposed brick backdrop, while glass fronted options add a contemporary style that oozes the luxurious feeling of a James Bond villain’s hideout. Although the type of fireplace you choose is totally down to personal tastes, it does often look better to match the fire to the style of its surroundings.
Consider materials
One thing you may not have thought of, is the different types of materials available. While fireplaces used to be limited to cast iron and other heavy options, now, you can choose from lighter grains like limestone, marble, brick or wood. Some material types also lend themselves nicely to be painted, if you want to make sure the fireplace will definitely coordinate with your living space.
For a cosy kitchen or small cottage, a brick or iron fireplace would add a lovely vintage feel. Alternatively, you might enjoy the sophisticated style of limestone or the elegance of a marble fire.
Location
While it might seem obvious where to put your fireplace, there are actually a huge number of creative designs out there, that might not have come to mind.
Practically speaking, you should make sure the fireplace has plenty of space around it. A central position will help to keep the room warm and cosy, but moving the fire to the side, or embedding it into the wall could help maintain a minimalist feel within the home.
Those who would like the fire to be a focal point for the room can choose a larger mantlepiece to really draw guests’ attention.
Functionality
A fireplace’s primary function, is of course, to heat. But people often use the mantelpiece for decoration or for showcasing books and other possessions. Others like to install the television above the fire, combining the two to create a cool entertainment system to enjoy with friends and family.
Considering functionality also comes into play when thinking about fuel types. Old, wood burning fires give off a completely different ambiance to a gas fire, and both have their own pros and cons.
Additional décor
Before diving in with installation, you also need to consider what other décor you’ll be using around the fireplace. Mirrors are a common choice for either leaning on the mantelpiece or hanging them above. You might also want add lanterns or house plants to either side of the fire at ground level. During the summer, when the fire isn’t in use, bunting is a nice way to frame the centrepiece, while a Christmas garland adds to the homely feeling during the festive period.
Once you have a solid plan, and know what you’re looking for, it’s time to take the plunge and install the perfect fireplace for your home.
