Previously, fireplaces were used mainly for practical purposes. With their help, they maintained a comfortable temperature in wooden and stone houses, dried wet clothes and heated water for domestic needs. With the advent of technology, a lot has changed. Now the fireplace has become primarily an attribute of style, a bright touch in the interior of the living room. It creates an atmosphere of comfort and warmth, being a unique symbol of the family hearth.
Today, fireplaces can be found not only in country houses and dachas. Safe electric fireplaces are often installed in apartments designed in different styles. And to make the space sparkle with colors, the fireplace is decorated with a variety of decorative elements.
In this material you will learn how to beautifully decorate a fireplace in a house or apartment. We will share with you the designers’ ideas and show you photographs with design examples. You'll be surprised how a few simple solutions can transform a space!
How to decorate a fireplace for the New Year
You can decorate a real and a fake fireplace with the same decorations. Only in the first case do you need to follow safety precautions. To decorate, you can simply take traditional New Year and Christmas paraphernalia:
- Socks for gifts;
- Christmas trees;
- Father Frost;
- Snowmen;
- Christmas decorations.
Fireplace area design
Every holiday has colors that symbolize it. For New Year or Christmas you should use to decorate the premises:
- red;
- white;
- blue;
- blue.
And navigate by the animal whose year is coming. The traditional color palette is complemented by emerald, orange or burgundy. Warm tones should not overlap with cold ones; you should also take into account the decor in the room: the color of wallpaper, curtains and furniture. For the New Year, make beautiful garlands and paper lanterns with your own hands, and sew funny socks. The main thing is not to disturb the style of the room. Cute angels will look out of place in a strict Gothic room. And Baroque bas-reliefs will not fit into design or minimalism.
Important! Observe safety precautions if the fireplace is real, because... he is the source of open fire.
Preparatory stage
When preparing and selecting materials, you will have to start from the object of decoration - the fireplace. A good-quality stone fireplace can be decorated with natural spruce garlands, while heavy materials are not suitable for a fake version. In addition to the garland, the required components include figurines of fairy-tale characters, socks for enclosed gifts, themed decorations, and colorful rain.
Traditional materials:
- fresh spruce branches and different-sized cones;
- tinsel and rain;
- colored paper and foil;
- foam plastic figures for decoration;
- candles of different textures and sizes;
- ribbons, braid and pieces of fabric;
- figurines of fairy-tale heroes;
- photo frames;
- glue, paints, scissors, thread, wire and twine.
Don't forget the traditional socks and gift wrapping paper.
Before you start designing and manufacturing elements, you need to decide on the general picture of decorating the room. It is important that all the details fit together. You can use a red-green color scheme with elements of gold; an interesting option is a blue-silver tone. When choosing a color, you can use the tips of astrologers. For example, 2022 is the year of the Yellow Dog, feel free to experiment with sunny shades.
Elements for decorating a mantelpiece
It is easy to smooth out the excessive severity and stiffness of the fireplace not only by understanding how to decorate the fireplace, but also by decorating the shelf. It’s easy to decorate a family hearth with little things like:
- framed photographs or paintings;
- candles in elegant candlesticks, scented candles and incense;
- interesting vases of various configurations;
- flower arrangements;
- seasonal decorations based on branches or vegetables;
- collections of figurines, mugs, figurines;
- stacks of books;
- mirrors of different shapes;
- travel souvenirs and globes.
Decorating the mantelpiece with LED lighting strips or additional lighting will also be an excellent option. Followers of minimalism prefer the absence of any elements on top of the fireplace. It has a distinctive style and elegance.
Fireplace decoration
The main decoration areas are the wall, shelf, side parts, portal and base. When decorating a fireplace with your own hands, you can grab the ash pan and chimney pipe. Paying attention to one element or all at once.
Step 1. Decorating the hearth
The best decoration for a room with a fireplace will be the flames of the fire and crackling logs, creating a magical atmosphere. This option is suitable for real structures. You can imitate fire - the optimal method is chosen depending on the complexity of the work, the material used to make the false fireplace and plans for the holiday:
- Draw a flame - make a picture with your own hands or print a ready-made one from the Internet. For authenticity, place a mobile device with a large screen inside the fireplace and play a long video with a burning fire. You can draw a fire on cardboard, lay branches below and attach strips of paper to them. The volumetric design looks natural.
- Illumination - use a Christmas tree garland on the fireplace or LED strip. Choose non-heating elements with protected wires.
- A steam installation - from a fan or steam generator, several light bulbs or a controller will help create a safe and quite realistic flame, complemented by a smoke effect that humidifies the room.
- Candles – A few candles in the hearth area look beautiful and provide a natural source of flame. Warm up on New Year's Eve by the fireplace. It is safe to use them for structures made of fireproof materials.
- Red silk, a fan and lighting will create an imitation of fire. Or a small LED flashlight.
A handful of “firewood” stacked at the bottom of the hearth, as if the flame is about to light up, will also create a New Year’s mood. Tinted stones will look like real ash, and hiding a garland or one LED strip between them will create the effect of smoldering coals.
An original decoration for the fireplace for the New Year would be a figurine of Santa “stuck” inside, or gifts scattered from a fallen bag, or a beautiful picture instead of a fire. Or a composition of small toys, pine branches and cones.
Step 2. Decorating the facade
The front of the fireplace is decorated with garlands of different materials: natural pine needles, colored paper, Christmas tree decorations, ribbons, snowflakes, tinsel. Bright socks often complement the picture.
Step 3. Decorate the mantelpiece
Decorate the New Year's fireplace shelf in two ways:
- Attach garlands (glue or pin) to the edge or Christmas tree decorations, homemade lanterns, tinsel.
- Place decorations on top within the same theme using the following items:
- candles;
- compositions with fir branches, figurines and tinsel;
- photos of family members and pictures;
- figurines, toys;
- flowers with a white coating of “frost”;
- bowls of fruit.
Or combine both options without overloading the shelf.
Beaded figurines
It is not difficult to make such decor. You need to string beads onto a wire of medium thickness and then bend the base into the shape you want, for example, a Christmas tree. This can be done flat or volumetric, twisting in a spiral.
Decorative Christmas trees
To make a Christmas tree, a cardboard cone is often used, which is decorated with any available materials. An unexpected proposal - vermicelli painted in various shades of various configurations. A glue gun is ideal for attaching it to the base. The cone can be decorated with lace, golden laces, or covered with cut out green palms.
Foam figures
It’s easy to find foam figures in craft supply stores. All that remains is to decorate them or paste them with beads, cardboard flowers or snowflakes, multi-colored pieces of fabric or foil. You can find out from the sellers how to properly attach the parts.
Step 4. Decorating the base
For a real fireplace, the decoration of the base is an iron grate and a firewood rack. A false hearth can be decorated in a similar way by constructing an imitation of the necessary elements from thick cardboard or polyurethane. Any metal structure or stand is suitable for the firewood rack.
What to consider when decorating
To beautifully decorate a fireplace, you need to maintain a single concept. So start by choosing materials and colors. For example, more and more often the area is decorated in a natural style, when only natural materials are used. For such fireplaces, wood, spruce branches, pine cones, and fruits are suitable.
Or you can decorate a fireplace using only textile materials. This decor will consist of soft toys, knitted figurines, garlands with felt elements, and multi-colored balls made of threads.
Tip: Make some DIY decorations to make your fireplace decor stand out and stand out from the store bought ones.
The second thing you need to think about is the color scheme of this design. If you find it difficult to choose a shade, study the symbolism of the coming year. For example, in 2022, gold, silver, gray, black and white tones will be relevant.
Gold is a great color for holiday decor; such decorations will harmonize with the greenery, and when you turn on the garlands and light the candles, they will reflect the glare, making the fireplace area even more festive. I would prefer this option if lush decor is not planned in other parts of the room.
By combining two or three shades, you can achieve a bright effect, but ideally such a combination should contain one bright and one neutral tone. For example, as in the following photo of the New Year's fireplace decoration in the house. The rich red tone adds dynamism to this design, while it goes well with the greenery, while white and silver balance this brightness.
If you want to use more shades in your decor, I advise you to limit yourself to decorations of the same shapes and sizes. Then such decor will not look chaotic and the author’s unified idea will be visible. For example, in the following photo there are a lot of bright colors. But they are all present in the same elements - Christmas tree balls, there are practically no other forms, the top is not loaded with other decor, so the result is a completely original and effective design.
It is not at all necessary to make the fireplace bright. On New Year's Eve you will turn on the lights - and this area will already be quite bright and illuminated. So maybe neutral decor is right for you. I love how the white shade shows up in any New Year's decor. It evokes associations with cold and snow, so it fits perfectly into the theme of the holiday.
Take a look at the photo: there is only greenery and snow-white decor. To prevent the fireplace from looking boring, the author diversified its design with decorations of different styles. Green spruce branches act as accents, drawing attention to this area.
And here is another “snowy” effect: the decor contains white and blue tones, while cotton wool, white threads for the balls, artificial snow on the cones did their job - the fireplace looks truly snowy.
This is the main color scheme typical for New Year's decor, but you can use any colors, playing with tones, styles, and shapes. I believe that the design of the fireplace area that matches the design of the Christmas tree is always more successful. If there will be a New Year's beauty in your room, it is better to use the same decorations for it and repeat the color scheme.
What to place above the fireplace
We smoothly move on to the upper design of the fireplace. A few ideas of what this could look like:
- general framing of the sides and top with rain, fir branches, and other decorations;
- placing decorations and decorative items above the fireplace, if it is wide enough and its surface can be used as a shelf;
- decorating the wall above the fireplace with paintings, mirrors, wreaths, and other paraphernalia.
The first method is a complete decoration for the fireplace, framing it on all sides. Make it wide enough so that it can completely cover the width of the structure. In the photo, such decor includes Christmas tree balls, pine branches, cones, ribbons with classic patterns, and garlands with yellow lanterns. The decor has three main shades - green, pink and silver, so the composition does not look too intrusive.
You can opt for calmer New Year's decorations. I like the minimalistic approach as in the following photo: only two colors and a minimum of bright elements. Green spruce branches are complemented by an accent in the form of citrus fruits and pine cones. The decor, close to nature, covers the fireplace from all sides - it turned out harmoniously and without unnecessary details.
The following example also demonstrates how you can decorate a fireplace in a natural style. Only natural shades, small decorative wooden Christmas trees, wicker deer, greenery and orange candles. This decor on the surface resembles a fairy forest.
And in this decor the author decided to use dark wood. Deer as a symbol of the New Year holidays, an old clock as an indicator of the approaching New Year - and a maximum of bright lanterns along the entire length.
Please note that a wreath can be another stylish addition to this decor. You can make a similar fireplace decoration yourself. Wreaths are made from branches, berries, fruits, pine cones, candies, Christmas tree decorations, beads and much more. Several materials can be combined to make the wreath more magnificent. In the photo, the author combined traditional New Year's decor from pine needles and Christmas balls along with delicate flowers made of fabric.
You can use cones as an element for such decorations or as a separate detail. Cover them with glitter, paint or fake snow. The pine cones can be combined into a garland to decorate the front of the fireplace, or placed in a basket/vase/clear dish to place on top.
Pine cones, greenery, twigs, any New Year's toys can be combined into a common composition that will serve as a candlestick or addition to vases. Place a couple of such compositions in the right and left corners.
Another photo of how to decorate a fireplace for the New Year: here the decor is made of snow-white leaves and feathers, as well as soft toys on a holiday theme. If you evenly distribute toys and snow-white decorations over the surface, no additional decor will be required.
Add light to the elegant design by placing lanterns or garlands on the surface. Let me give you an example of a decor that I liked for its original approach: instead of pine needles, the author used bright green decorative moss. Some of the greenery, along with pine cones, is distributed over the surface, while some is placed in transparent vases along with bright lanterns from garlands. An unobtrusive, but quite interesting idea.
Candles will also be a decoration. You can decorate them yourself by adding a design, wax carving, wrapping them with ribbons or decorating them with glitter. If you've settled on simple-style candles, add accents with stylish candlesticks. To make it even more interesting, take several candles of different widths and heights.
If you have a mirror above the fireplace, take care of its edging. Let it match the decor present on the surface. The photo shows an example of such a design; the author used blue, turquoise, green and gold tones in the decor. And gold as the main accent is duplicated on the wall.
High tech
Hi-tech style fireplace stoves 2022 amaze with their varied design. Straight lines can be combined with smooth and curved ones, creating an unusual design of eye-catching geometry.
Abstract forms will add originality to the style, because in a high-tech interior you can often see things that are strange at first glance, which then seem to be an integral part of the room.
One of the popular types of fireplaces is a firebox built into a table with your own hands. Thus, a multifunctional design is obtained.
Modern technologies make it possible to produce samples with a rotating mechanism and additional decorations.
How to decorate the floor near the fireplace?
When celebrating the New Year by the fireplace, you want to sit on the floor nearby. If there is no sofa, armchairs or ottomans, it is worth spreading a soft blanket, a small rug or an imitation fur skin. Complementing the picture with a pair of sofa pillows. Provide enough space so that everyone who wants to sit on the floor can fit without crowding. Place a heater nearby if necessary (near a wall or in a corner). Place figures of Father Frost (Santa) and Snow Maiden for decoration.
You don't have to put gifts by the tree, even empty boxes. Children will not appreciate fakes. It is better to leave free space for movement and check the stability of all objects by securing them lightly. Place the gifts on the sides near the fireplace, each with a postcard so that the household can quickly sort it out. Or on a table/coffee table in one pile. Place small surprises inside the socks hanging on the facade - figurines of the New Year's symbol, soft toys, coins or pendants. All cute and memorable things that your loved ones will love.
The fireplace area – merging with the interior
Space for creativity is provided not only by the fireplace itself, but also by the area near it. The transition of the wall from the hearth to the main walls can be implemented in a single style. For example, decorating the walls in the form of shelves for logs. For an aesthetic appearance, carefully processed logs of the same size are laid.
Mirror surfaces or areas with fascia are successfully combined with a fireplace. Mirrors frame and decorate this visual center of the room. Electric models are equipped with side vertical shelves on which figurines or framed photographs look beautiful.
Walls near the fireplace
When decorating a fireplace for the New Year, you can leave the walls empty or make them part of the composition - put a Christmas tree in the corner, attach snowflakes and garlands to the sides. So that new elements complement the hearth area without making it look alien in the room. Coniferous branches, wreaths and garlands are ideal. Another option is to hang photographs of family members in New Year’s frames in a single composition, complemented by the number of the coming year at the bottom.
Home installation
The versatility of fireplaces lies in the possibility of their installation. The fireplace can be wall-mounted or built-in, corner or island. The choice depends on the size of the home, and any shape can be given; fireplaces can be square or cylindrical, round or polygonal in shape.
“Stove craftsmen” are still in demand, and prices for fireplace decor, although they vary depending on the complexity of the design, are quite acceptable for a fireplace that will last for many years.
Decorating a corner fireplace
The corner hearth is more stable and, accordingly, can withstand greater loads if it is made of thick cardboard or a piece of foam plastic (fake). This design is placed on a stand in the far corner, allocating more space around. You can decorate it in the same way, using more massive elements.
New Year's surroundings create a festive mood; coming up with decorations for the fireplace is useful for the whole family, especially to involve children. Their vivid imagination will be a great help!
Choosing the right option
Modern fireplaces are available for use in almost all types of premises. They are increasingly designed to perform aesthetic functions.
For decoration, you can use individual objects, placing them in close proximity. Another option would be to create an appropriate design for the room in which the fireplace is located.
What can you make a false fireplace from?
False fireplace made of paper
The simplest and, at the same time, original solution would be... just using the experience of Papa Carlo. In this case, you can do without a portal at all by drawing a false fireplace under the shelf:
Or draw a paper flame in a cardboard fireplace, lighting it from behind:
False fireplace made of boards
An interesting version of a false fireplace for permanent use in the interior can be made if suitable boards, for example, parquet, are left from the renovation. They are glued to a lattice frame rigidly fixed to the wall.
Well, this fireplace will become New Year’s thanks to the festive decoration!
And a small masterclass on making a false fireplace from plywood from sibling Ledi Irin:
“The fireplace is made of plywood, hollow inside, covered with brick-like wallpaper on top.” It stood for several years and served as a decorative element. A row of real bricks was placed at the bottom of the “fireplace” for stability. In front of the “hearth”, a piece of linoleum was cut out in a semicircle “under the pavement” and the edge was covered with furniture nails. The back (inner) wall of the “hearth” was also covered with brick-like wallpaper. The outer semicircle of the “hearth” itself was covered with cut out “bricks”. They put real small birch logs inside like a hut, and inside them they put a Christmas tree garland, rolled into a circle. With the overhead light turned off, a complete illusion of a fireplace was created. On the shelf where the New Year's houses are located, there is a secret niche, you open the flap and there you can make a small bar or use a compartment for surprises and gifts. Those who don’t know the secret will never guess...”
False fireplace made from cardboard boxes
So, what can you make a false fireplace from on your own?
A very popular material due to its availability, easy to work with and suitable even for women’s hands is cardboard boxes. If you have a large box (for example, a TV box), great! We cut out the “firebox” with a knife, bend it inward, glue the walls, securing them with tape - and the base is ready!
A mantelpiece (it should be slightly wider and longer than the fireplace itself) can be made from several layers of cardboard, a sheet of plasterboard, or polystyrene glued together. All that remains is to cover the base with wallpaper or paper and start decorating!
To view the photo in full size, click on the image
An interesting solution would be a corner false fireplace made from a cardboard box - such a fireplace does not require much space:
To view the photo in full size, click on the image
If there is no such box, then you can get by with a few small ones, for example, shoe boxes:
To view the photo in full size, click on the image
Another example of a base for a false fireplace made from small boxes:
For real masters, nothing is impossible! This complex fireplace is also made entirely of cardboard, and the flame in it is also cardboard:
False fireplace made of foam plastic
Another, very light (in the literal sense) material for making a false fireplace is polystyrene foam. Using a knife and a glue gun, you can make a base like this:
For greater structural strength, the parts can be additionally secured with toothpicks coated with glue.
And here’s what a wonderful fake fireplace made from foam plastic turned out to be:
“You can order a false fireplace made of polystyrene foam. It is lightweight, and you can always put it away, like a Christmas tree, after the holidays. But creativity will still be needed. Because it is made white. You need to paint it with paint with the addition of decorative plaster. So that there is a maximum feeling that it is made of stone. Then age it in a convenient way. I just used dark colors in the recesses and along the edges. It turned out quite well. He is very weightless and quite cute. True, I didn’t dare to put candles on it, you never know.”
False fireplace made from old furniture
Well, what if there are no parquet or other suitable boards, but just in time for the New Year you decided to throw away the old furniture? Well, a wonderful false fireplace was made, for example, from an old sideboard. True, you certainly can’t do this without men’s hands!
To view the photo in full size, click on the image
My husband made guides for drywall and covered them with furniture panels. We took it to Leroy. By the way, the frame was immediately made to these dimensions, so as not to cut it ourselves. This fireplace is permanent, all year round. I place candles on the mirror below. Immediately romance in the house.
A piece of wall panel, a board, or several squares of tiles are suitable as a stand. But you can simply place the fireplace on the floor.
Options for facing materials
The cladding of the fireplace can be anything - it all depends on the design idea. Since the standard design consists of a hearth and a portal, both elements are designed separately. The false fireplace and electric fireplace consist of one portal and do not have a hearth. When choosing finishing materials, it is important to consider where the hearth is located - at home or on the street, and for what interior it is designed.
The most important factors are:
- combustion material - when they are going to burn with wood, the lining must withstand temperatures up to 900 degrees, but for oak wood it is required that it can easily withstand 1000 degrees, for other solid fuels - 1200;
- location - if the installation location is a summer veranda or garden, frost-resistant cladding is needed; for a structure placed in a house and having a purely decorative purpose, any materials are suitable;
- moisture resistance - when the room is not heated, non-moisture resistant materials quickly crack and peel off;
- weight - for a heavy structure on the first floor of a private house, an additional foundation is required; the second and higher floors simply will not support a heavy fireplace.
How fireplaces are decorated:
- stone;
- brick;
- Himalayan salt;
- drywall;
- tiles;
- tiles;
- glass;
- colored plaster;
- tree;
- stucco;
- paint;
- foam blocks;
- forged parts;
- fiber cement panels;
- sheet iron.
Not all types of finishes are suitable for a working fireplace, not a fake one, so when purchasing a particular material, you should read the instructions.
Stone
It is considered the best solution for any style, all types of premises, garden design. This finish not only looks good, but will also be as durable as possible. High temperature and humidity are not a problem for it, but the weight of the fireplace is quite large. A large structure requires the manufacture of a separate foundation, which is made at least ten centimeters larger than the base.
The following types of stone are commonly used:
- marble;
- travertine;
- onyx;
- malachite;
- granite
- coil;
- sandstone;
- Soapstone chlorite
Artificial stone weighs significantly less, looks like natural stone, and is most often made from gypsum in combination with stone chips and pigments. It is easy to process and cuts well. Laying begins from the bottom corner after leveling the surface. But most types of fake stone are not able to withstand high temperatures or high humidity - its suitability for certain works should be clarified when purchasing.
Tree
It is used to decorate electric and false fireplaces, as it can easily catch fire. It is also not suitable for rooms with high humidity - it cracks and becomes deformed. Caring for wooden surfaces is necessary on a regular basis, otherwise they will quickly lose their normal appearance. The material is impregnated with special compounds that prevent molding, damage by insects and rodents, and is covered with stain and varnish.
The most popular types of wood are:
- oak, beech;
- nut;
- cherry;
- mahogany;
- rosewood;
- pine, spruce;
- Karelian birch;
- maple.
Such a hearth has a beautiful texture, becoming a unique piece of furniture, and is decorated with carvings, voluminous turned elements, and inlay.
Tile
Ceramic tiles are used quite often for finishing - the variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns allows them to decorate designs of most currently known styles. Before installation, the surface is carefully leveled, and the solution is made as uniform as possible - if a pebble or debris gets under one of the tiles, it will lie unevenly, which will significantly spoil the appearance. Next, the surface to be treated is marked. Parts require high-quality fitting, and different types of tiles are fixed using solutions of different compositions. For some types of interior, rectangular tiles imitating red, white or multi-colored brick are suitable.
Tiles
The most luxurious interiors are decorated with tiles. Once upon a time, palaces, temples, and houses of wealthy residents of large cities were decorated this way. The material contains terracotta clay, which is suitable for all types of fireplaces, but real ones must have a cast iron firebox. The elements are produced glazed, shiny, as if made of glass and without glaze - reminiscent of simple pottery. In terms of stylistic design, tiles can be vintage, modern, classic, etc., they are highly decorative and have sufficient durability.
Plaster
Decorative plaster is easy to apply independently, but in order for the structure to look neat, it requires preliminary leveling of the surface and coating with primer. Often several types of plasters of different colors are used, and the strokes are done chaotically. The material does not withstand excessively high temperatures, therefore it is used for false fireplaces or those that are heated only occasionally with non-solid materials.
Stucco molding
Stucco molding is made from gypsum or polystyrene foam. The latter option is only suitable for electric fireplaces or their imitation. Columns, half-columns, rosettes, niches, pilasters, corners, openwork details, etc. are made. Sometimes entire stucco bas-reliefs are made, depicting various scenes, which are later painted with special paints or left white.
Steel and forging
Cast iron and steel elements and accessories are suitable for all types of structures. Doors, grates, and the entire fireplace are made of metal - it is not afraid of high temperatures, and the anti-corrosion coating will protect against high humidity. Real fireplaces with a “live” fire are also equipped with a forged poker, tongs, a scoop, and a stand for firewood. Patterns or entire plots on doors and screens are made using plasma cutting or are also hand-forged by a craftsman to order.
Most often on the doors they depict:
- contours of animals, birds, fish;
- silhouettes of people;
- geometric figures;
- plots from literary works;
- urban, rural landscapes;
- musical instruments, notes.
One of the disadvantages of such finishing is the high cost, since almost all the decor is done manually or using an expensive machine with a laser.
Fireproof coating
A fireplace decorated with glass elements will fit perfectly into any modern interior. The glass used is fireproof - withstands up to 1000 degrees, coated with a special composition that prevents the appearance of soot. It reflects part of the thermal radiation into the structure, is produced smooth, convex, and may have patterns. Such a fireplace warms up the room slowly, but you can look at the fire up close without fear that a spark will fall on clothes, furniture, or carpet. Heat-resistant paints are also used here. They have an organosilicon base and, after application, form a protective film on the surface that can withstand temperatures up to 650 degrees. Before painting, the surface to be treated is leveled and cleaned of grease and old plaster. Afterwards painting is done with a brush, spray cans, and hand painting.
False fireplace decor
The decoration of a false fireplace largely corresponds to the decor of conventional fireplace installations in the house. But there are nuances: there should be even more light sources here + we need to think about how to fill the interior space.
The easiest way is candles. Several candles in the niche of the structure in the evening will create a flame effect. But you should remember about fire safety, so when choosing decor, take into account the tendency of materials to ignite.
A more realistic effect will be obtained if you cover the candles with a fireplace grate. Monograms and patterns will add elegance to the fireplace area.
The next interesting way to solve the problem of lighting a fireplace niche. The author simply fixed the lamp on the top of the niche, and filled the entire space with antique furniture.
A small fireplace can be decorated inside with garlands. Arrange them in a chaotic order or take vases, baskets, jars in which lights will flicker.
Garlands can be used in the form of a curtain to completely cover the front side of a fake fireplace with lanterns. The photo shows how much light this approach provides, while below you can place mock-ups of lanterns or candles that do not need to be lit.
Well, the most original, in my opinion, way of decorating a false fireplace is presented in the following photo. Here the fire is simply drawn, but at the same time the whole area looks no worse, because it contains all the paraphernalia of the New Year's fireplace decor. These include socks, candles, and small Christmas trees on top.
We looked at how you can transform a fireplace, making it a full-fledged part of the holiday decor in your home. Its presence opens up many additional possibilities, so I advise you not to leave the fireplace unattended when preparing for New Year's celebrations this winter.
Ethno style fireplace frame
Ethnic fireplaces amaze with their diversity in decoration, because elements of any national group can be used here. Gypsum fireplace frames and ceramic tiles are often present in the lining of fireplaces in the Russian and Old German styles.
Scandinavian options impress with their harsh character and cool color palette. Indian motifs are characterized by variegated colors.
The material for decorating the fireplace area in ethno-style is not fundamental; the emphasis is on the external design, which sometimes includes elements of several ethnic groups at once.
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Modern fireplaces 2022 are easier to adapt to today's interiors because they are more compact and practical. They are equipped with efficient heating methods and are made less fire hazardous.
How to simulate a flame in a false fireplace?
So, the fireplace is ready! Now we need to light a flame in it. True, since the fireplace is not real, the flame will be either artificial or very small - after all, we must not forget about fire safety!
The simplest solution, which requires almost no effort, is to place an electric garland or LED strip “in the firebox” of the false fireplace.
A good way to simulate a flame is an electronic photo frame with the desired image inserted into the firebox of a false fireplace. You can, as in the examples above, make a flame out of cardboard or simply draw it, attaching a light source to it (while maintaining safety!).
But how I want at least a little live fire! Candles can be used with caution:
Or even safely “light” real firewood by inserting small candles into it
or highlighting:
A mirror installed deep in the firebox, reflecting the light of candles or garlands, will give a very interesting effect. But even without a flame, stacked real firewood in a false fireplace will give it a natural look and add coziness:
And here’s how interesting the firebox of a false fireplace is designed using a “real” fireplace grate:
Rustic or country styles
For interiors of these two styles, fireplaces are designed in the same design. Massive structures are made from wild stone or wood in a rough design.
The D-shape of rustic fireplaces includes a niche with wood under the firebox. A wooden beam is placed above it, and then there is a casing with a chimney.
The decorative finishing of the fireplace is made of brick or sandstone, which is artificially aged. Sometimes its appearance resembles a stove.
Such models are typical for country or country-type houses with a large area and high ceilings. Only experienced craftsmen can build them.
Living room with fireplace and TV
The combination of a fireplace with modern appliances is a controversial issue. Of course, ideally, the interior of a living room with a fireplace implies the absence of a TV. After all, in such a space you should enjoy communication and spending time together with loved ones. But if there is no other option, then it is best to place them on the same line. An alternative option would be to purchase a corner fireplace. In this case, the TV will not be located next to it. Thanks to this, if you wish, you can enjoy the warmth of the fireplace and at the same time watch your favorite movie.
In any case, you should not hang the TV on the opposite side of the fireplace. Glare from the fire will interfere with viewing, and this kind of heat will have a negative effect on the equipment.
Many people make a serious mistake when they hang a TV above the fireplace. Firstly, this is contrary to safety regulations. After all, heat always emanates from the fireplace, which negatively affects any equipment. In addition, each of these interior items attracts attention. This can make the living room look overloaded. This is especially noticeable in small rooms. The only exception may be a false fireplace, which plays a largely decorative role.
Rustic Fireplace Wall Ideas
When decorating a rustic wall, give preference to organic materials. Mix natural stone with reclaimed wood. Aim for the hearth to be the focal point of the wall—place accent decor or artwork above the fireplace, but not the TV.
If the drywall around the fireplace seems too flat and boring, spruce up an accent wall with wood or brick cladding. These solutions are easy to implement and much more financially rewarding than most wall remodel ideas.
Does your idea of rustic style lean more toward "shabby chic"? Choose a white brick fireplace. Adding a light wood shelf above the fireplace will help warm up the overall design. Preserved greenery, such as wreaths or dried flowers, make a great display addition.
Fireplace in the living room interior: varieties
Due to the popularity of this piece of furniture, today there are a considerable number of varieties. Models differ not only in their operating principle, but also in their size, style, shape, and finish. This allows you to choose the most optimal option in all respects. But at the same time, the selection process may be unnecessarily prolonged. Therefore, we suggest you understand the features of each fireplace and consider what you should pay attention to when choosing.
Wood burning fireplace
When it comes to a fireplace, people mostly think of the classic wood-burning design. It has been popular for many years and is ideal for a private home with a large living room. Such a fireplace creates a genuine atmosphere of warmth, warms even in the most severe frosts and often looks very beautiful. It has an incredibly strong calming effect. That’s why there are even entire broadcasts on the Internet with such a pleasant crackling sound and mesmerizing view of fire.
Of course, like any option, it has its drawbacks. This mainly concerns the rather complex process of installation and operation. This process should be trusted exclusively to highly specialized professionals. Because the risks in this case are really very high. In addition, it is very important to take care of a good, high-quality chimney and do regular inspections and cleanings. It is also necessary to allocate a special place for firewood, scoop and poker. As for the features of the room itself, its area must be at least 20 square meters and must have high ceilings. Otherwise, safety rules will be violated. Of course, installing a wood-burning fireplace is not an easy task, but perhaps this option is capable of creating the very atmosphere that everyone dreams of.
Gas fireplace
The main competitor of the previous option is considered to be a gas fireplace. It has a more modern, stylish look, so it will complement almost any interior well. It is noteworthy that it also warms in cold weather, but at the same time has the ability to regulate the temperature. It is very convenient in everyday life. In addition, there is no need to equip a firewood shed for it, since firewood is not used in this case. This will save a lot of space in your home. In general, we can say that the only difference between this option and the previous one is the need for a gas pipe. In terms of its functionality and appearance, a gas fireplace is an excellent solution for a cozy home.
Electric fireplace in the living room
Electric fireplaces have become popular recently. Undoubtedly, they cannot compete with the classic version. But on the other hand, this is an excellent solution for decorating city apartments. This type of fireplace is not designed for heating, so it does not emit much heat. At the same time, it serves as a real decoration for the living room and creates that unique atmosphere of warmth and comfort. The advantage of this option is its mobility. That is, if desired, you can always move it or move it to another room. In addition, it does not have an increased level of danger and does not leave ash and soot in the room.
It should be noted that the fireplace must ideally suit the overall design of the living room. The most suitable in this case would be high-tech and country styles. Often in such rooms a sofa is placed against the wall and a small table in front of the fireplace. You can use it for evening tea or leave a couple of your favorite books on it. The fireplace itself is decorated quite often, but only with small decorative details. For example, a figurine or a photograph in a beautiful frame. All this helps to create a pleasant homely atmosphere.
Biofireplace
Increasingly, in the interior of the living room you can see a bio-fireplace, which provides a live fire. It operates in a vacuum on plant-based, environmentally friendly biological fuel – bioethanol. This type of raw material does not emit any harmful substances when burned and is generally considered safe. It is noteworthy that this design does not require a chimney or special ventilation. Thanks to this, the fireplace is ergonomic, mobile and at the same time quite practical and durable. Most often it is installed in a living room in a high-tech or minimalist style. But other options are acceptable based on personal preferences.
False fireplace in the living room interior
The most budget-friendly and safest option, which is suitable even for a small apartment, is a false fireplace. Of course, it does not have a warming effect, but is purely decorative. Foam plastic, chipboard, wood or brick are mainly used as the basis for this design. For exterior design, you should choose the material based on the style of the living room interior. Most often this is wallpaper, decorative panels, paint and much more. In addition, it is necessary to create an imitation of fire. To do this, you can use candles of different sizes and shapes. The garland along with logs also looks very beautiful. Often a false fireplace is decorated in a completely different way, namely with the help of flowers in vases and other decorative items. It looks fresh, stylish and always attracts the attention of guests.
There are also types of fireplaces depending on the type of firebox:
- open. The flame in such structures is not fenced off and due to this, the efficiency does not exceed 15%. It turns out that the main energy consumption goes into the pipe. In general, we can say that these types of fireplaces should not be considered heating devices, since they serve more of a decorative role.
- closed. In this case, the firebox is closed with special doors made of heat-resistant glass. The flame is clearly visible through it, which allows you to enjoy the process on cozy family evenings. It is noteworthy that in many models these doors open and thus the fireplace is transformed into an open view. The efficiency is approximately 75%.
There are also several types of fireplaces depending on their location. It is always better to decide on this nuance in advance in order to save time on choosing. In addition, this will help to think more carefully about the interior design of the living room.
Wall fireplace
The main feature of this design is that it is installed right next to one of the walls of the living room. However, keep in mind that this design gives off heat, so it will go directly towards this wall. Equipment and fabric products should not be placed on it.
Corner fireplace in the living room interior
Perhaps the most convenient to use is a corner fireplace. This design does not take up much space and is well suited to any style of living room. The only caveat is that it should be installed near the internal walls. Thanks to this approach, the heat from the fireplace will spread to the next two or three rooms. However, experts note that such an installation slightly affects its functionality. Because the room may not warm up evenly, especially if it is large.
Island fireplace
One of the most stylish options for the interior can rightfully be called an island fireplace, which has the highest heat output. It is installed in the center of the living room, thanks to which it warms the room well. By the way, this option is often used for zoning space. This is especially true in cases where the living room is combined with a kitchen or dining room.
Built-in fireplace
For owners of small homes, it is best to take a closer look at built-in fireplace models. The fact is that they are particularly compact. In addition, they are installed mainly in a column or niche, thanks to which a lot of free space can be saved.
Regardless of the type of fireplace chosen, experts recommend following several general rules:
- It is best to insulate the entire room, including windows and doors, which will significantly reduce heat consumption.
- A fireplace that provides warmth should only be installed near the interior walls of the house. Otherwise, most of the heat will be directed to heating the street.
- If you plan to install a wood-burning fireplace, then the appropriate calculations must be made at the stage of building the house. Since it assumes the presence of a chimney, a strong floor and even some foundation features.
- When choosing a fireplace, it is extremely important to consider the dimensions of the room. For a small living room, a corner or built-in model is suitable. In turn, for more spacious rooms the ideal solution would be an island or wall-mounted fireplace.
- The fireplace must be installed exclusively in accordance with fire safety regulations.
Neoclassical
Neoclassicism is not as pretentious and pompous as the standard movement. The updated style uses decorations in doses. A bright accent of the space will be a huge fireplace in the living room. The design with false columns on the sides does not violate the symmetry of the room. Both the traditional wood-burning type and the electric model look great here. A TV panel is installed above the structure.
Small cozy living room Source m.yukle.mobi
The design of a living room with a fireplace in the English classics is laconic and simple. Traditional hearths are made in the shape of the letter “U”, often open. A protruding portal without doors or partitions looks integral with the room. Living flames and the crackling of wood bring a feeling of peace to the room. Red brick and wild stone are used for cladding.
Chalet
A fireplace in a chalet-style living room interior is a natural extension of the space and a bright decorative element. The room looks great with a huge portal lined with raw stone. The option with a D-shaped chimney combines harmoniously with the TV. Zoning is easy to do using a model with a panoramic firebox.
Combination of different light sources Source silastroy.com Chalet decoration Source overhair.ru.net
Fireplace wall design ideas
The wall behind the fireplace is more than just a backdrop to your main attraction. Whether you're decorating a wood-burning or electric fireplace, invest in a mantel for small items. Hang a large mirror, a picture or a TV above it for the ultimate finished look.
Bring the fireplace wall to the forefront of the room's design with tiling. Stone and cement tiles are a great way to add elegant texture to its surroundings with a neutral color palette. Use small geometric tiles to decorate an interior or entire wall.
A simple coat of paint can transform an old fireplace with minimal effort. Match the paint to the surrounding walls to let other decorative elements pop. Or choose a contrasting color to highlight the background.
