Fireplaces as a Design Feature

Just thinking about a fireplace can bring forth nostalgic thoughts of people gathered around a burning fire as the winter storms howl outside the home. In centuries past, people started to discover the usefulness of an indoor fireplace. As homes became more elaborate, there emerged a need to heat individual rooms in order to make them more comfortable in cold weather.

But fireplaces are more than just a useful way to keep warm. They also can serve as a focal point of your home's decor. Originally, fireplaces were constructed from basic, generally unattractive materials. But as technology developed and casting techniques became more refined, fireplaces started to look quite attractive.

Fireplaces require an insert, which is a flame resistant unit where the fire can burn without damaging the surrounding area. Traditionally, these were made from cast iron and surrounded by decorative tiles. Another important component is the sides of the fireplace, known as the surround. These were usually fabricated from metal, or sometimes wood.

Cast iron was the basic material used for manufacturing fireplaces, which explains why they gained rapidly in popularity during the Industrial Revolution. As well, innovative new techniques for smelting iron made these units more affordable for the general population.

These days, depending on your needs and budget, you can purchase various kinds of fireplaces, ranging from those that are purely functional to more sophisticated models that feature remote controls to control the temperature and ventilation. In the more functional category is the old fashioned wood burning stove, which uses wood or coal for fuel. It can be situated just about anywhere, as long as it can be attached to a chimney to release the gases produced.

Fireplaces are categorized according to the kind of fuel they utilize. The most common are wood, natural gas, and coal. A wood burning fireplace is a favorite of many people because it creates an appealing atmosphere, and is typically less expensive to run. Many people who live near forested areas can even get their firewood for free.

However, burning wood creates more pollution than natural gas does. It's also messier, more difficult to get started, and harder to control. Nevertheless, many people who own a fireplace prefer using wood because of the crackling logs, intoxicating smell and unbeatable atmosphere created. To balance the pros and cons, there are processed wood logs available that burn more cleanly and are easier to light.

Fireplaces will likely always be a popular design feature in modern homes, even though their appeal is more aesthetic rather than practical.

Now that you have your fireplace installed, it's time to really make it a part of your home. Decorating your fireplace is much more than simply placing a few ornaments on the mantel. You need to focus on making the fireplace a focal point of the room that reflects your home's decor and your individual style.

Start by taking a good look at your mantel. The mantel is at eye level, so people will be visually drawn to it quite naturally. This is an ideal location for the things that you treasure. Photos, family heirlooms, and other significant mementos are just the right things to complement a warm, flickering fire. Or if you're looking for a more contemporary look, try arranging an assortment of items that share certain features.

Some people prefer to display artwork above the fireplace, either one large piece or a grouping of complementary items. For a simpler, more traditional feel, place a clock or a garland on the mantel.

Your next decorating focus should be the hearth. Balance is very important here. Consider placing a plant on each side of the opening to your fireplace. Andirons are a timeless look for any fireplace. Or position an attractive set of fireplace tools on one side, with a wood holder on the other.

Even if you don't use your fireplace on a regular basis, it should still look attractive at all times. Fireplace candelabra placed inside the firebox fills the empty space, and you can easily light some candles instead of going to the trouble of starting a fire on busy nights.

Mix up your fireplace decor according to the season. Arrange a basket full of pine cones in the hearth in the wintertime. Fill a cornucopia with harvest goodies in the fall. A spray of flowers in the springtime or an arrangement of shells and sand in the summer are just some of the creative ideas you could try.

When it comes to fireplace accessories, be sure to maintain the overall look of the room. The material that your fireplace tools, log holder, and andirons are made from should blend in. For example, polished brass is elegant and understated. For more casual decor, consider bronze, copper, or wrought iron. Brushed pewter or nickel is a very modern look. Then throw in a fireplace screen or glass doors to match.

There's a lot to think about when it comes to choosing a fireplace. There are so many different kinds, from wood to natural gas to ventless. Here are a few tips to help you narrow down your choices to make sure you get the fireplace that best suits your needs.

Ask yourself these questions, and write down your answers so you can refer to your list as you're shopping:

* What are the features that are most important to you?
* What are the features that would be nice but aren't essential?
* What style of fireplace will best match your decor, i.e. contemporary or rustic?
* What's the size of the room you plan on putting it in, and how much wall space is available?
* How much use will the fireplace get?
* What's your budget?

Once you start looking, spend some time investigating the available models and features. Be sure to examine the warranty carefully so you know what to expect in the event of a problem with the fireplace you have chosen.

The energy efficiency rating is an important consideration to keep in mind as you're checking out your options. Be sure to examine the EnerGuide Fireplace Efficiency ratings on any fireplace you are considering. Here are some of the features that are frequently a component of fireplaces with high energy efficiency ratings:

* Automatic or intermittent electronic ignition
* Secondary heat exchanger
* Insulated outer casing
* Quiet circulating fan
* Automatic or variable temperature control
* Ceramic glass
* Direct venting

Unless you really know what you're doing, it's preferable that you hire a certified contractor to install your fireplace. Once it's installed, you should have your fireplace inspected and serviced annually by a professional.