What’s more enjoyable than a night by the fireplace? The warmth makes us relax. The flicker of the flames mesmerizes us. You can fit a fabulous fireplace into any home. Let me show you how.
Chimney-Vented Fireplaces
If you have a traditional chimney-vented fireplace or the budget and space to build one, you can create a cozy place in your home for the whole family to enjoy. Whether your decor is contemporary or country, there’s a fireplace style that will complement your environment perfectly.
• Contemporary Build-Ins
Not every fireplace is customary brick and mortar style. You can build a beautiful, sleek unit to fit in a modern space. Smooth expanses of granite or marble with an embedded fire box are perfect in contemporary spaces, although then can be expensive. You can create a budget-friendly version by enclosing the fire box in a large floor-to-ceiling wood surround with clean, straight-line molding and a touch of inexpensive marble tile.
• Mantle Makeover
Take your old fireplace from boring to beautiful with a mantle makeover. Paint the old brick with a solid color, build two wood columns on the outer ends of the unit and top it off with a bold new mantle structure. Sandwich a wide piece of natural wood grain between a length of molding – top and bottom, then rest the new mantle on two large corbels. Finish with framed wood plank on the wall above, topped with ceiling cove molding. You won’t recognize the old fireplace; but, you’ll surely love the new one.
• Mirrored Wall Unit Design
You can take a makeover one step further by building a paneled wall unit over an existing brick fireplace. Use large columns and molding to give the piece some weight; then build in a mirror between the woodwork and above the mantle. It’s a stunning presentation in any room.
Ventless Fireplaces
If you don’t have the space or budget to build a traditional chimney-vented fireplace, explore the options of ventless fireplaces with alternate fuel sources. These small units can be hung on a wall or built into a dedicated structure – some are even portable.
• Sleek, Glass Tile Wall
Install a wall of sleek, glass tile and carve out a niche for a ventless fireplace at perfect viewing height. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy real flames in whatever space you have available.
• Sculptural Facades
Some designers use ventless fireplaces in extraordinary ways. You can create sculptural metal facades that frame the fire with unusual shapes and earthy-looking elements; then let the flames peek through the design.
See examples of these fabulous fireplaces in the Fireplace Ideas ideabook on Houzz. Always remember to follow local code regulations and manufacturer’s instructions for safety. But, don’t be afraid to find the design that will bring warmth and beauty to your space to enjoy with family and friends year round.
Enjoy more home decor ideas from Terry Mulligan:
10 Tips to Take Your Next Decorating Project Over the Top
Fabulous Choices for Decorating with Throw Pillows
Budget-Friendly Dollar Store Finds Anyone Can Decorate With