A modern fireplace can be equipped in a small house and even in a city apartment, and the choice is so wide that it is difficult to navigate. We understand together with experts the features of choosing and installing a fireplace, as well as its influence on the interior.
Fireplace in the house: types
A fireplace can be fundamental or portable. Modern options for fireplaces are very diverse: in addition to the classic wood-burning, you can install an electric one that runs on gas or bioethanol. The choice also depends on the area of the room and the finishing materials used.
According to the shape, fireplaces are divided into one-sided, two-sided, and three-sided. The first one is classic, with a single window, the second one is angular, requiring increased traction, and the third one looks like an outstanding column that can be installed even in the middle of the room. But first of all, it is worth deciding on the type of structure.
Wood burning fireplace
Resistant brick fireplaces are the standard original option. They are fired with wood. Such a fireplace can be open or closed, but always with strong walls and a chimney. The closed design is preferable because it ensures safety: soot and coals will not fall out. If the fireplace is used frequently, it is necessary to clean the chimney several times a year, otherwise, it will clog with ash and other small particles, and increased smoke in the house is possible.
Gas fireplace
The installation of a fireplace with flame adjustment must be coordinated with the gas service. The design can be connected both to the central system and to gas cylinders – they will have to be systematically refilled. Such a fireplace can be decorated by laying out firewood so that it looks more like a real wood-burning one. Gas fireplace materials (including finishes) can withstand lower combustion temperatures than traditional ones.
Electric fireplace
An electric fireplace with a backlight is connected to a power outlet, it consumes electricity and does not heat the room too well, but it works silently, does not smoke, and does not require cleaning, and a ventilation shaft. Powerful models can heat a room up to 20 square meters and the strength of the “flame” can be adjusted with remote control.
Bio fireplace
A great option for those who are not ready to spend resources on serious repairs and building hoods. Stationary bio fireplaces do not produce soot; it is made of stainless steel, and the main consumable is alcohol for fire.
BBQ Fireplace
The structure is installed on a solid foundation, most often in courtyards and on terraces. But a large kitchen of a country house can also be supplemented with a barbecue grill. Manufacturers offer models equipped with an additional grill function.
Fireplace boiler
Metal structure with water circuit. It is valued for its practical properties: such a fireplace heats the house well.
Fireplace in the interior
Before choosing a fireplace, decide on its location in the interior. The design can be:
- Built-in – takes up the least space, recessed into the wall;
- Corner – a spectacular option with a two-sided view of the focus;
- Wall-mounted – the back of the fireplace is in the wall;
- Suspended – fixed only by the chimney and not in contact with the floor;
- Separate – a portable fireplace in any part of the room, including in the center of the room.
- It is also important to focus on the design of the room.
Loft
The industrial loft style involves an abundance of brick, metal, and wood. In these conditions, almost any fireplace will look appropriate.
Country
Rustic color, as well as a similar traditional Provence style, require an appropriate addition. Fireplaces made of red and white brick, decorated with tiles, wooden elements, and plaster facades are suitable.
Classical
Restrained interior with elements of luxury – these are columns, clear lines, and monograms. Here you need a fireplace of a strict geometric shape, possibly with stucco and gilding on the facade. The suitable decor made of natural or artificial stone. Fancy designs also look good in baroque and art deco styles.
Scandinavian
Light colors, minimalism, and an abundance of natural materials make it possible to complement the interior with small modern fireplaces. But a traditional wood-burning hearth, painted white, will look good in such an environment.
High Tech
A small fireplace is better for a modern technological interior. Bio fireplaces of various shapes and colors will ideally fit into high-tech. For example, a bright red design can become the main accent of the living room, and a double-sided hearth on a marble stand will create coziness in the corner of the bedroom.
How to choose a fireplace
Choosing a type of fireplace, it is important to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the model. The following factors are taken into account:
- Building type. For houses made of timber and brick, any fireplaces are suitable. In a city apartment, it is better to give preference to decorative models; a chimney and wood heating are excluded here. In a frame house, you should choose a ready-made, not-too-massive fireplace, which will not be installed close to the wall.
- Size. The design itself takes up a lot of space if we talk about the classic fireplace. If you really want to put a stove in a small kitchen, you can take a closer look at desktop bio fireplaces. Large frontal models are an option for a large bright living room.
- Functionality. When you need not only decor but also heating, it is best to choose a fireplace with a water circuit. A barbecue grill is good for cooking, but it will increase the temperature in the room, so you need to think about the hood in advance. If there is no money for a classic hearth, you can consider the option of a false fireplace. There are models with electric lighting that simulates a flame.
- Fuel type. Unlike natural hearths, decorative modern fireplaces do not require thorough cleaning. When used correctly, they are safe and easy to maintain. The traditional wood-burning option will have to be given much more time.
Pros and cons of a fireplace in the house
House has many advantages:
- a working fireplace transforms the space, creating comfort;
- it emphasizes the status and ennobles the room;
- the hearth relieves the house of dampness, and provides heat;
- a wood-burning fireplace fills the room with the pleasant smell of burning logs;
- a fireplace allows you to create a romantic or family atmosphere.
The disadvantages of the design depend on its type:
- gas and bio-fireplaces are inefficient for space heating;
- for the operation of wood and fuel hearths, you will have to constantly buy consumables;
- real fire is a potential fire hazard, so do not leave children and animals unattended near the fireplace;
- during combustion, soot and soot are formed;
- it takes time for constant care of the fireplace;
- When you first light a wood-burning fireplace, a little smoke is inevitable.
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