Cozy season is upon us so it’s time to wrap ourselves in a blanket, sip a hot cup of tea and read a good book in front of a fireplace. Can you envision yourself in this dreamy scene?
Fireplaces are quintessential for nesting at home during the cooler winter months ahead. They generate some heat, create a cozy ambience and provide a focal feature in the room. Thankfully, there’s a range of options to choose from…
Choosing a Fireplace
- Open hearth: Traditional wood-burning fireplaces have been used since the dawn of time. There’s nothing quite like the aroma, crackling sounds and visual appeal of a “real” fire which provides the most intense light and heat. However, it can be a safety hazard if left unattended. The only major operating cost is to have a professional inspect and clean the chimney annually.
- Closed hearth: Similar to open hearth (as above), but with a glass or wire screen in front for protection.
- Inserts: A closed-combustion firebox that fits into the existing masonry fireplace. They are made of cast iron or steel for durability, with a glass door in front. Costs can vary.
- Prefabricated: Factory-built fireplaces.
- Vent-free: Gas fireplaces that don’t require a chimney and are the most popular due to their efficiency, safety and lower installation costs.
- B-vent: Gas fireplaces with a vertical vent piping that is used in lieu of a chimney. This doesn’t produce a lot of heat, which makes it a perfect option for warmer climates.
- Direct vent: Gas fireplaces that draw in outside air and release the exhaust back outside using a stove pipe. Typically, this is the costliest of all the gas options but excellent for well-sealed high-efficiency homes.
- See-through gas: Fireplaces visible from 2 sides for maximum impact, both visually and for all-around heating (180 or 360 degrees, depending on style).
- Electric: Various styles including wall-mounted, stove-style, basket-style, inset and TV-stand. They’re very affordable many are portable. Just plug it in and turn it on. There’s a design to complement any genre of décor from ultra modern to rustic farmhouse.
- Ethanol and alcohol-gel burning fireplaces are relatively new to the market. They’re less costly than gas and electric, easier to install and often portable. They provide a low gentle heat, so they’re primarily used for aesthetic and décor.
Modern fireplace ideas for living room
The process of choosing a fireplace will be easier if you narrow down your search to a preferred fuel type, and then consider factors such as whether its purpose will be primarily decorative or for home heating. Will it be fixed in place (due to a vent or chimney) or portable? How much would you be willing to spend for installation, fuel and servicing? With all the above-noted options to choose from, you are sure to find one that is perfect for your home and needs.
To further complement and enhance your living area, consider adding custom cabinetry to surround your fireplace. Bookcase-style built-ins on either side create perfect symmetry, or opt for something asymmetrical with open shelving on one side and a closed unit on the other? Either one would add storage capacity, as well as nooks and cubbies for arty décor items.
Allow SKÖNA to custom design and create cabinetry that works for you!
