Using a fireplace in interior design

The fireplace is always associated with home comfort and family warmth. And if earlier this accessory was available exclusively to owners of private houses and was characterized by fire hazard, complexity of installation and maintenance, then modern models can be installed in city apartments, they are safe and easy to install.

The fireplace in the interior has 2 functions - aesthetic and practical. Most devices not only allow you to enjoy the appearance of a blazing fire, but also serve as a source of heat. However, if we are talking about false fireplaces, then they serve exclusively as a decoration of the room.

In the classic version, the fireplace consists of a firebox (that is, a space where the fire burns), a portal (a structure framing the firebox) and a chimney (serves to remove smoke and carbon dioxide from the room). Modern models often do not have a chimney; their portal can undergo various improvements.

If we talk about models in which a real fire is burning (and not a video image, for example), then preference is given to closed devices. Their firebox is closed by a door made of heat-resistant glass. Thanks to this, it is possible to maintain a high efficiency of the fireplace (up to 70-80%), to increase its safety (the risk of being burned by the flame, the likelihood of fire is eliminated), but to retain the ability to see the flames.

Fireplaces can be classified according to various criteria. Depending on the type of fuel used, several models are distinguished at once.

The source of energy in such devices is logs. This type is suitable for private houses, as it requires the installation of a chimney. It is better, of course, to design the device even at the stage of building a house. The installation of the fireplace should be entrusted to professionals, since accurate calculations are important here.

If the chimney is too long, the wood will quickly burn out. And if you make it too short, then smoke and soot will penetrate into the room. When organizing wood-burning fireplaces, fire-resistant materials are used, and the adjacent walls, floor, attic and roof section where the chimney is mounted are protected with fire-resistant heat-insulating material. The advantage of the accessory is the ability to enjoy a real flame, feel the aromas of burning logs, and hear the crackling of fire. In addition, these fireplaces have a fairly high thermal efficiency.

However, their device requires a lot of money, as well as regular care and cleaning. Before the fireplace heats up the room, it will take at least an hour and a half (the time depends on the power of the product, the size of the room). Finally, you need to take care of the preparation of firewood and logs, the organization of storage space.

Fireplaces of this type operate on gas, being connected to the main system or working on a liquefied analogue from a cylinder. Their device is not much different from wood-burning models. Although the size can be much smaller, since it does not require a large firebox.

Electric fireplaces are, in fact, heating appliances with an imitation of an open flame. They do not require the organization of a chimney, since they are powered by electricity. Thanks to the presence of a thermostat, it is possible to regulate the temperature in the room, the systems are equipped with an automatic shutdown program, which ensures their high safety. The electronic screen, which the devices are equipped with, demonstrates the heating temperature and has various sensors.

Flame simulation can be achieved in a variety of ways. For example, using the OptiFlame system, which assumes the presence of special lighting and silk ribbons. The latter are inflated and illuminated, which creates the effect of dancing tongues of flame. A three-dimensional video image of the fire is also used, although this method cannot avoid its cyclicity. Modern email models fireplaces simulate the burning process as closely as possible and can even be equipped with a soundtrack - crackling of logs.

As fuel for these devices, those options are used that do not emit carbon dioxide and other combustion toxins. Their installation does not require the organization of ventilation, and therefore a chimney is not needed. It is enough that the room where the fireplace will be located has good ventilation.

If the method of their installation is used as the basis for the classification, then fireplaces are also divided into several types.

The device is located in a wall niche - ready-made or specially created for a fireplace. Thanks to this, the accessory does not “eat up” the useful area in the room and looks as organic as possible. It is optimal if the decision to create a built-in fireplace is made during the construction phase.

They are located along the wall, that is, they have protruding parts. A hanging fireplace can be called a type of wall-mounted one. It is mounted on special brackets to the wall, which saves space. As a rule, wall-mounted models are electric; outwardly, such an accessory resembles a plasma TV, inside which a fire is burning.

They are also called double-sided, since you can admire the flame from both sides of the fireplace. They serve exclusively for decorating a room, since their heat transfer is scanty. To organize such a model, a firebox is installed in the middle of the room (or in any convenient place), which is surrounded by heat-resistant glass or other materials. A smoke collector connected to the chimney is located above the furnace part.

Such models are similar to wall-mounted ones, however, they are mounted in the corner of the room, which determines their ergonomics. The chimney of the corner unit is located on any adjacent wall, and the walls of the firebox are made at an angle, or a two-chamber furnace is used.

You can also highlight several groups of fireplaces based on the direction of heat flows. They can spread in one direction (in front of the device) or several at once. Visually, the amount of heat flux can be determined by looking at the fire.From how many points of view the flame is visible, the heat moves in the same number of directions.

Based on this, several options are also distinguished.

This design is quite simple, it has a furnace with inclined walls. Due to this, thermal energy is reflected and discharged through the fireplace window into the room, warming it up.

It has 2 sides in which the flame burns, that is, 2 adjacent or opposite firebox planes are separated by a transparent partition. Double-sided fireplaces include corner and island, as well as some wall-mounted models.

Since the fuel in such units will burn out faster, then the chimney in the structure must also be more powerful. The area of ​​the floor covering, which needs thermal insulation, will also have to be increased. Finally, the energy efficiency of these models is reduced because the combustion chamber has fewer reflective surfaces.

It is a transparent structure resembling an aquarium, one of the sides of which is mounted in the wall. The unit is equipped with a chimney on top. The main feature of such fireplaces is aesthetic appeal and originality. However, heat is reflected in them only from one side, and therefore the efficiency of the structure is low, in addition, the floor area, which needs thermal protection, increases.

Depending on the access to the furnace part, open and closed fireplaces are distinguished. The latter have a door covering the firebox. The efficiency of the device in this case can reach 70-80%, while the thermal efficiency of open models does not exceed 5-10%.

Some models can be carried from room to room (as a rule, these are electric and some models of gas devices). These fireplaces are called mobile. The opposite ones are stationary.

The facing of the portal can be different - stone, brick, metal, wood. There are tiled fireplaces lined with refractory tiles.

Finally, there are pseudo fireplaces, which are the most affordable and safest option. Such false fireplaces are an imitation of a fireplace portal; if necessary, you can place lighted candles or a heating element in it.

You can achieve the maximum attractiveness of a fireplace in the interior by choosing a design in the same style as the main design of the room. There are several types of designs in terms of stylistic solutions.

The design has a U-shape, as a rule, it is equipped with a chimney. Such a fireplace boasts massive outlines, stucco moldings, bas-reliefs and columns used for decoration. Artificial or natural stone is usually used as decoration. Victorian style implies the presence of cast iron forged elements.

Fireplaces of this style seem to be sent to Provence - a small suburb, a village in France, where everything breathes with naturalness and serenity. It is believed that the shape of the structure resembles the letter "D", which is achieved due to the presence of a massive stand at the bottom of the device and the presence of a wide wooden beam at the top of the portal.

Natural porous stone (limestone, shell rock) is used as finishing materials. Gypsum is used to decorate the outer part of the chimney.

The Scandinavian style, full of freedom, naturalness, light, will help to recreate the atmosphere of a country house. Scandinavian style fireplaces are the embodiment of natural harmony. As a rule, these are wood-burning structures of a simple form; smooth stone and metal are used for cladding.

If you want to create a cozy and romantic atmosphere of a small hunting lodge in the mountains, then pay attention to the chalet-style design. It is characterized by originality and originality, which is achieved due to the simplicity of the device. Fireplaces of this type, rather, resemble a large stove.

For decoration, use natural materials - stone, wood. As a decor, you can equip a small woodpile, throw real or artificial animal skin on the floor.

These fireplaces look good in a modern style. In general, they are similar to the classic variations, but less massive, decorated. Even if modern fireplaces have stucco moldings, the whole structure looks natural and minimalist, lightweight, thanks to which it fits optimally into modern interiors.

Minimalism is also close to this group of fireplaces. The constructions are characterized by originality of forms and unusual combination of materials (for example, glass, metal, polymers, stainless steel and concrete). High-tech fireplaces are an opportunity to make your wildest desires come true: models suspended from the ceiling, round and spherical structures, devices combined with a waterfall. All this will organically fit into the interior of this type.

Unusual combinations and laconic forms are welcome in loft-style rooms. A fireplace of a simple rectangular shape made of metal of dark colors will be successful here. Also, designers recommend island units for these interiors. They become not only a "feature" of the room, but also act as a means of zoning it.

Regardless of the chosen model and its purpose (heating and aesthetics or just an attractive appearance), the fireplace should correspond to the general style of the interior, be in harmony with it.

• In modern stone buildings, a fireplace in the Art Nouveau style looks organically. And for wooden houses or buildings from a bar, a country-style option is well suited.

• Traditionally, fireplaces are located in the living room. Undoubtedly, it will become the center of the interior. Depending on the style and size of the room, this can be either a frontal or an angular variation.

• Owners of small apartments can turn a balcony into a cozy seating area. The atmosphere of warmth and soulfulness will help to recreate the fireplace. It is better to choose a corner or mini-model; portable devices or false fireplaces are also suitable. You can beat the design with indoor flowers, homespun rugs and wicker furniture. So you achieve the stylization of a balcony for a country veranda.

• A fireplace will also help to emphasize the luxury and nobility of the cabinet design. It will become a stylish attribute in combination with wooden shelving and solid furniture made of natural wood. For modern interiors, choose wall or corner models.
• The fireplace will perfectly complement the dining room. Stoves-fireplaces are distinguished by their practicality, which will allow not only to warm up or decorate the interior, but also to warm up food. Depending on the design of the dining room, choose classic models, hinged, corner. As for the decoration, it is a stone, bleached brick, ceramic tiles.
• In small rooms, preference should be given to corner and hinged models, false fireplaces. The use of light shades will help to visually enlarge the room, including when decorating a fireplace.

• False fireplaces look as organic as possible with candles. Such a corner immediately becomes the embodiment of comfort and warmth. A mirror will help to visually increase the number of candles and achieve an interesting effect of dancing tongues of flame. It is enough to use reflective elements when decorating the rear of the firebox or place them in front of the fireplace.
• Living vegetation allows you to emphasize the naturalness of the materials for the cladding of the structure or the authenticity of wood-burning models. Ficuses, climbing plants or pyramid-shaped thuja will complement the living room.The main thing is not to place them strictly symmetrically on both sides of the fireplace, because our task is to create a relaxed atmosphere, a green corner, as close as possible to nature. And in nature, as you know, there is no symmetry.
• In open-plan homes, double-sided models can be used. They allow you to differentiate, for example, a dining room and a living room. At the same time, the fireplace looks self-sufficient, therefore, when decorating the interior, give preference to minimalism.

• As for the finishing of the structure, then natural stone is suitable if you want to make the fireplace the center of the interior. The combination of natural raw stone in the cladding and white walls looks unusual and homely warm.
• Unusual stylistic solutions, for example, a combination of modern and rustic styles, are achieved by combining a stone fireplace and natural wood in the decoration of the walls, floor or ceiling of the room. It is optimal if the structure of the device also contains wooden elements (mantelpiece, beams).
• Marble fireplaces can look quite rough and heavy., however, do not give up this noble material. It can be embodied in the design of a mantel. The accessory itself can be brick, stone, whitewashed.

When it comes to the festive decoration of the fireplace, the first thing that comes to mind is the New Year's decor. Indeed, in the magical New Year's Eve, the stove becomes the embodiment of kindness, warmth, and family peace.

• In this case, it is better to place the festive tree near the fireplace. However, in the absence of such, the device can easily replace it. On the mantelpiece, you can lay out sprigs of needles, complementing them with scattered tangerines, Christmas decorations, candles. The traditional color palette is considered to be red-white, golden-red. We must not forget that it will be possible to create a festive atmosphere only if a similar design is continued in the rest of the room.
• The fireplace will become an intimate corner for celebrating Valentine's Day, because next to it, right on the floor or on a low table, you can arrange a romantic dinner. The traditional colors of the holiday are pink and red, and to make the decor look more airy and lighter, "dilute" it with white, silver, golden details. Garlands of hearts, small bouquets and wreaths, candles and themed figurines will help create a festive atmosphere.

Another holiday that gathers the whole family at the hearth is Easter. On this day, themed garlands, colored eggs, sweets can be placed on the mantelpiece. Since Easter is also a holiday of spring, primroses (tulips, daffodils) will be appropriate.

• Traditionally, fireplaces are installed in the living room. As a rule, this is the largest room in an apartment or house, which means that there are enough air flows here. In addition, it is in the living room that relatives and friends gather.

• In the hall and office, classic wall-mounted or built-in models are appropriate; for smaller rooms, you can choose corner options. If the living room is combined with a dining room, office or hallway, give preference to island models, which, among other things, will help to divide the room into functional zones. In most cases, rectangular models are appropriate here.

• Round structures look harmonious in modern interiors. And if such a fireplace is also equipped with a worktop, then it is perfect for use in the dining room. By the way, in the latter it is very convenient to use fireplace stoves, because you can even cook or warm up food in them.

• In a country house or in a country house, a cylindrical structure looks organically, as well as tiled models and devices that imitate stove stoves.
• The location of the fireplace on the loggia requires high-quality thermal insulation of the latter. However, with this approach, you will be able to recreate the atmosphere of a country veranda in a city apartment. It is optimal to use electrical models or false fireplaces. The balcony is recommended to be sheathed with wood; you can use light wicker furniture there, complement the interior with fresh flowers, bright dishes.

• Regardless of the type of fireplace, it is important that it is certified and has quality guarantees. The lack of such documentation, as well as the too low cost of the accessory, should alert and become a reason for refusing to purchase. Installation of the device should be trusted only by specialists.
• When choosing the location of the future fireplace, make sure that it is not blown through by drafts, and there is a lot of air in the room itself. The walls adjacent to it must have reliable thermal insulation, as well as the flooring in the immediate vicinity.

• If you decide to lay out a wood-burning structure, be prepared to periodically clean the firebox and chimney. Otherwise, the fireplace will not be able to boast of long-term operation and impeccable traction.
• To maintain an attractive appearance, the portal must be cleaned regularly. If you got the idea to lay it out of stone, brick or marble, remember that you cannot use abrasive compounds to clean them, it is better to purchase a special tool.
• Most wood burning fireplaces consist of a firebox and heat resistant glass. To maintain the transparency of the latter, you need to ensure that the wood used is dry. Preference should be given to hardwood logs, since soft ones smoke, and conifers give a lot of sparks.

A fireplace is always cozy, beautiful and practical. The main thing is to find exactly the model that will truly transform your room. The size and shape of the structure must correspond to the general parameters of the room.

The color design of the device should be in perfect harmony with the shades of the interior of the room. A 100% safe bet, especially for rustic interiors, is a combination of stone and wood.

How to install a fireplace yourself, see the video below.