10 royal fireplaces that are winter goals: From Prince Harry to Duchess Camilla

This article explores seven distinct fireplace options to enhance warmth and style in homes, addressing the challenge of keeping interiors cozy during winter without the drawbacks of traditional open fires. It begins by contrasting traditional and trendy fireplace choices, highlighting the growing emphasis on environmental consciousness and energy efficiency in modern living. For those with existing open fireplaces, the article notes their inefficiency, with up to 90% of heat escaping through the chimney, and suggests using sustainably sourced wood while avoiding treated timbers to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. A fireplace facelift is presented as a solution to improve heating efficiency for traditional setups, recommending wood or gas inserts. Matthew McLean, General Manager at Regency Fires, advises potential buyers to measure their chimney and room dimensions, identify house composition (brick or fibro), note ceiling height, specify flooring, assess window size and curtain coverage, consider climate, and determine insulation levels before visiting a showroom. Wood fireplaces are described as offering ambience and effective heating for large areas, available as freestanding or inbuilt units. Freestanding units, evolving from potbelly stoves to modern metal and glass designs, can be placed in various home areas if a vent or chimney is present. The cost for a basic wood fireplace ranges from approximately $1,500 to $2,500, with additional costs for installation ($400) and flue ($300+), which can increase for complex installations like chipping bricks or longer chimneys. Gas fireplaces, suitable for homes with natural or LPG gas access, are offered as built-in or freestanding options. While generally more expensive than wood units upfront, the overall cost can be less if a gas outlet is already available. Electric fireplaces provide the aesthetic of burning logs without the need for gas connection or wood collection, operating as wall-mounted units. However, their reliance on electricity increases greenhouse gas emissions, making them a less eco-friendly choice. Outdoor fireplaces are gaining popularity, aligning with contemporary trends towards sleek, slimline designs and the blurring lines between indoor and outdoor living. These allow for year-round al fresco entertaining. Direct vent units, which do not require internal air for venting or a vertical chimney, are increasingly favored due to their installation flexibility, venting directly through any external wall. This simplicity makes them suitable for homes of various structures, including two-storey houses, by merely requiring a hole in an external wall rather than vertical fluing above the roofline. #ElectricFireplace #GasFireplace #SustainableLiving #Traditional #Trendy #HomeHeating #IndoorStyle #OutdoorLiving

The article explores the best indoor fireplaces to enhance warmth and ambiance in homes during winter. It acknowledges the challenge of selecting and installing a fireplace, emphasizing the importance of considering different types, room style, and intended use. The discussion highlights various fireplace options, starting with the PuraFlame Klaus 33″ Electric Fireplace Insert, praised for its antique design, realistic resin logs, crackling sound effects, and efficient heating modes (750- and 1500-watt). Its ease of installation into existing fireplace openings is noted. Next, the US Stove Cast-Iron Log Wood Stove is presented as an option for those desiring a log-burning wood stove. This rustic and user-friendly model is capable of heating up to 900 square feet, features a heavy-duty cast iron body accommodating logs up to 19 inches, a cool-to-touch handle for safety, and an integrated cooktop, making it suitable for cabins. For gas fireplace enthusiasts, the ProCom Universal Ventless Firebox is recommended. This slim-designed firebox allows for installation in tight spaces and can be customized with an 18- to 24-inch ventless gas log set. It includes a draw screen, hood, and decorative brick liner. The Solo Stove Lloyd Modern Gel Fuel Fireplace is featured for its versatility, functioning both outdoors and indoors without the need for venting, thanks to its freestanding design. It provides a real flame experience and boasts a mid-century modern aesthetic. A traditional wood-burning option, the Osburn 1700 Wood Insert, is highlighted for its beauty and efficiency. It is EPA-certified, can heat up to 1,800 square feet with its blower, and is constructed from heavy-duty carbon steel with refractory bricks for durability. The Aquafire Pro introduces an innovative approach with its water vapor and LED light technology, creating realistic-looking flames that change color via remote or smartphone. This electric fireplace insert is purely for aesthetic effect and does not produce heat. For convenient heating and ambiance, the Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove Heater is a freestanding electric heater designed to mimic a fireplace. It offers flickering flames and heats rooms up to 1,000 square feet. The Duraflame Electric Log Set provides a simple way to revitalize an older fireplace without renovation. It delivers a warm glow, realistic logs, heat for up to 1,000 square feet, and crackling wood fire sounds, installing easily into an old fireplace nook. The Real Flame Silverton 48″ Electric Fireplace includes a mantel, offering an easy-to-install, flameless electric fireplace solution that creates the appearance of a built-in fireplace without structural modifications. It plugs into a standard outlet and can transform a room's aesthetic. For renters or those unable to install traditional units, the Ameriwood Home Farmington Electric Fireplace Console combines a rustic-style TV console with an electric fireplace. It features 11 heat settings and 4 brightness levels, heating up to 400 square feet. Modern homes may appreciate the R.W.Flame 68″ Recessed Wall Electric Fireplace Heater, which has a sleek, slim design for wall mounting or recessing. It offers bright, colorful faux flames with adjustable colors and flickering speeds, along with a timer for safety. Finally, the Heat & Glo Escape See-Through Gas Fireplace is presented as a high-end option that provides fireplace access and visual appeal in two rooms simultaneously. Its large, minimalist design with anti-reflective glass makes it a striking centerpiece in any two connecting spaces. #IndoorFireplaces #ElectricFireplaces #WoodStoves #GasFireplaces #HomeHeating #WinterComfort #HomeDecor #FireplaceInserts #VentlessFireplaces

The fireplace serves as a central element in home design, moving beyond a mere heat source to become a significant design statement. Tiles are increasingly being utilized to frame fireplaces, introducing diverse textures, colors, and character to living spaces. The article explores ten distinct tiled fireplace ideas, demonstrating how this traditional feature can be both timeless and trend-forward. One approach involves embracing a 1970s aesthetic with brown zellige tiles, as showcased in an open-plan bungalow. These handmade Moroccan tiles, particularly in a rich chocolate brown glaze, add depth and warmth, with their shimmer changing throughout the day. This design incorporates a bespoke bench seating on either side, providing additional functional space. Another idea highlights decorative Delft tiles, which bring a traditional and wholesome feel to a living room. These blue and white tiles, often found in historic farmhouses, can inspire an entire room's color scheme, adding life and texture even when used subtly. For a modern interpretation of a traditional look, a white tiled fireplace with paneling above demonstrates how raising the mantelpiece can update a classic design. This approach respects the existing traditional style of an older property while incorporating contemporary handmade tiles, achieving a timeless blend of old and new. Material play is also explored, featuring a fireplace that combines natural timber and textural tiles. This design, softened by velvet sofas, uses sleek vertical wood paneling to emphasize height and rough-hewn, earth-toned tiles to add depth, creating a refined focal point through a dialogue between polished and raw materials. Adding a pop of color is another impactful idea, exemplified by a vibrant blue mosaic tiled fireplace that extends from floor to ceiling. This bold statement, impossible to overlook, transforms the fireplace into a work of art, with neutral surroundings allowing it to shine as the undeniable focal point. Curved chimney breasts, clad in dappled tones of vertically laid brown and white tiles, accentuating architectural curvature, offer a modern yet warm aesthetic. This design emphasizes subtle tonal variations and sculptural lines, creating impact even in smaller spaces. Integrated seating around the fireplace is a practical and stylish solution for larger open-plan areas. By utilizing materials like wood for seating and square white tiles for the fireplace, distinct zones are created, fostering a sociable environment. The handmade effect is celebrated through natural clay zellige tiles that frame a wood burner, providing character, depth, and movement. These durable, heat-resistant tiles, with their irregular surfaces, enhance the elemental feel of the fire. Lastly, pattern with a purpose involves reinterpreting traditional global motifs, such as Moroccan geometric tiles, to add warmth and character to contemporary interiors. This is seen in hotel lobbies where intricate yet symmetrical patterns balance vintage craftsmanship with urban edge, creating a design anchor that feels both worldly and inviting. Ceramic tiles are highly suitable for fireplaces due to their durability, heat resistance, and ease of maintenance, making them an excellent choice for creating a lasting design statement. #TiledFireplace #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LivingRoomDesign #FireplaceIdeas #ZelligeTiles #DelftTiles #ModernTraditional #ArchitecturalFeatures #WinterNights

Electric fireplaces offer a convenient and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces, allowing homeowners to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire without the associated hassle of sweeping ashes or cleaning the hearth. This guide explores various types of electric fireplaces, detailing what to consider before making a purchase, and provides recommendations for the best models available. There are three primary types of electric fireplaces: freestanding, wall-mounted, and recessed/insert. Freestanding models are the most straightforward to install, typically requiring only an electrical outlet, and come in styles ranging from classic stove designs to integrated console units with TV stands. Wall-mounted fireplaces offer relatively easy installation, similar to a flat-screen TV. Recessed or insert fireplaces, on the other hand, demand a custom-cut space for a flush, built-in appearance, providing a more streamlined and professional look. While many models offer both wall-mount and recessed options, most low-to-mid-priced inserts cannot be hardwired, potentially necessitating an electrician to add an outlet or conceal wiring. Heat output is a crucial consideration, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). A higher BTU rating indicates greater heating capacity. Most electric fireplaces provide around 5,100 BTUs, which is generally sufficient to heat spaces up to approximately 400 square feet. Some advanced models can reach 5,200 BTUs or more, effectively warming larger areas up to 1,000 square feet. Electric fireplaces primarily distribute heat using a fan and heated coils, similar to space heaters, meaning heat dissipates quickly once the unit is turned off. However, models utilizing infrared technology distribute heat more efficiently through light, maintaining ambient room temperature longer and operating more quietly, making them suitable for larger spaces. Size is another vital factor, influenced by room dimensions, available wall space, and ceiling height. Larger rooms or those with high ceilings often require bigger, more powerful units. For smaller rooms under 400 square feet with standard ceiling heights, more compact models are appropriate. Safety features such as automatic shut-off to prevent overheating, anti-tip devices, and built-in thermostats are important for safe operation. Key features common to almost all electric fireplaces include adjustable thermostats, multiple brightness settings, and remote control operation. Many also offer a no-heat setting, allowing users to enjoy the visual ambiance without additional warmth, and programmable timers. Wall-mount and insert models frequently feature customizable flame and ember colors, with some even incorporating crackling sound effects for enhanced realism. Smart electric fireplaces, equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, offer app-based control for increased convenience. This article provides recommendations for various electric fireplace categories, including the best freestanding, traditional insert, modern insert, smart, and portable options. Examples include the Duraflame Electric Fireplace Stove for its value and wide coverage, the PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert for its realistic traditional design, the R.W. Flame Modern Electric Fireplace for its contemporary style and customizable features, and the Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart Electric Fireplace for its smart functionalities and diverse flame options. The Real Flame Crawford Slim Electric Fireplace with Mantel offers a traditional aesthetic with powerful infrared heating, while the R.W. Flame Corner Electric Fireplace Mantel is an excellent space-saving solution. The Duraflame Electric Fireplace Insert stands out for its easy installation and retro charm, and the Shinic Portable Electric Fireplace Heater is noted for its portability and modern design. Each recommended product includes details on its type, dimensions, heat output, and coverage area, along with pros and cons, to aid consumers in making informed decisions. #ElectricFireplaces #HomeHeating #CozyHome #HomeDecor #ProductReview #InteriorDesign #SmartHome #FireplaceAlternatives

This article presents 24 elegant fireplace designs intended to inspire readers to create cozy spaces during winter. It emphasizes that the fireplace is often considered the heart of a home, regardless of its design style, and thus deserves attention. The compilation features a diverse range of styles, from luxurious black marble and rustic wood-burning units to modern neutral stone designs and elegant colonial-inspired hearths. Specific examples include a fireplace with unique black marble contrasting with warm flames, adding a sultry edge to a modern space. Another showcases a vintage wood-burning fireplace complemented by terracotta tiles. A matte black design is presented, modernizing a space while rich wood surrounds maintain a rustic feel. An inset fireplace with a marble frame serves as a focal point, offering a subdued yet cozy ambiance. A contemporary stone fireplace unites traditional materials with a modern twist through its neutral palette. A rustic cabin setting features a stone facade, creating a cozy and elegant winter wonderland. A sleek, two-way fireplace provides comforting warmth in a modern living room. A marble wood-burning fireplace is highlighted for its elegant colonial appeal, inviting dinner guests to gather. An earthy bluffed stone fireplace, notable for its height, combined with a metal cylindrical flue and raw wooden walls, adds textural interest to a cabin-like space. Further examples include a driftwood mantel with fireplace tools in a Montana guest room, and an arboreal outdoor fireplace designed to warm outdoor spaces with pastoral vibes. An ultra-modern metallic design features fireproof black porcelain tiles and a suspended fireplace in a Chicago library. A warm stacked stone fireplace divides and centers a Long Island living room, complemented by reclaimed oak floors and vintage furniture. A modern subdued fireplace in a Manhattan loft library is made of blackened metal. A bright sandstone fireplace in an Idaho home's covered porch is flanked by seating with Holly Hunt fabric. A lustrous marble fireplace in a New York City townhouse living area is surrounded by smoked and clear glass. A simple plaster fireplace in an Ossining, New York, home showcases a custom sectional and stained fir floor. A farmhouse-style fireplace in a Hudson Valley farmhouse is adorned with a George Nakashima Studio cocktail table and antique Persian rug. A London apartment features a gilded French mirror above a fireplace, with a Louis XV chair and Chelsea Textiles nesting tables. An antique French mantel in a Manhattan pied-à-terre is framed by a fanciful mural, with Louis XVI chaise and 18th-century Italian gilt armchairs. #FireplaceDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CozySpaces #LuxuryFireplaces #ModernFireplaces #RusticFireplaces #MarbleFireplaces

The article offers ten Christmas fireplace decor ideas to create a festive focal point in the home. The fireplace is presented as the heart of the home, deserving of special holiday attention. Owen Pacey, an antiques expert, suggests incorporating mirrors around the fireplace, either singularly or in clusters, to create an impressive wall feature. One decor idea, "Cascading glow," involves using stargazer-inspired climbing vine garlands and cascading light strands to create an enchanting display. Evergreen additions further enhance this magical scene. For a more dramatic approach, "Jewel maximalism" proposes creating a floral tapestry using a vibrant array of jewel baubles, sprayed foliage, exotic leaves, and colored dried flowers. This bold statement piece is intended to last throughout the season. Alternatively, these elements can be swapped for greeting cards to create a more sentimental Christmas card display. The "Miniature tree forest" concept suggests staggering vintage-inspired bottlebrush trees of varying heights along the mantelpiece, interwoven with micro Christmas fairy lights for a subtle twinkle. Personalized stockings hung on decorative holders add cheerful color. An extra styling hack involves padding the top of each stocking with 'stunt presents' for a fuller, merrier look. Beyond the mantelpiece, "Decorate beyond the mantelpiece" encourages extending decorations to the entire fireplace area. Garden greenery and dried hydrangea heads can be used on narrow mantelpieces, and clusters of baubles hung on ribbons offer a modern garland alternative. For non-working fireplaces, the void can be filled with gifts or seasonal potted plants. Disco balls and mini disco baubles add a playful, sparkling element. "Paper trimmings" introduces the use of playful embellishments like tassels, fringing, pompoms, and paper decorations to add a youthful and tactile touch to existing holiday decor. Placing these on the floor around the fireplace helps expand the decorative space. "Wreaths aren’t just for the front door" promotes using Christmas wreaths throughout the home, especially above the fireplace, to spread holiday cheer. Experts note a trend for less traditional wreath variations, such as those with feathers and gold wheat, in bedrooms. "Wild takeover" embraces a Scandi-inspired, homespun rustic appeal by adorning the fireplace with unruly, trailing foraged greenery. Various fresh textures like fern tendrils, fir sprigs, ivy, and holly can be woven together using discreet chicken wire to create an abundant, natural garland. "Metallic magic" involves spraying foliage and grasses in metallic shades for a luxurious effect, best achieved on dried species like eucalyptus. These are arranged in informal, voluminous displays, with metallic garlands or decorations featuring moons and stars adding a celestial touch. "Snow white purity" complements white marble fireplace surrounds with light-colored decorative accents and subtle glitz, incorporating coral-esque trinkets for texture and different shapes for design interest. Finally, "Brass-off" suggests enhancing the fireside with brass accessories, such as fire guards, kindling buckets, log baskets, and companion sets, to evoke bygone glamour and warmth, contrasting with traditional heavy black tools. Nadia McCowan Hill, a style advisor, highlights garlands, wreaths, and swags as popular decorating trends for mantels and stairs in 2021. #ChristmasDecor #FireplaceDecor #HolidayDecorations #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #FestiveFireplace #ChristmasLighting #DIYChristmas #SeasonalDecor

The article explores various ways to decorate fireplaces and mantels for the winter season, offering inspiration for creating cozy and festive atmospheres. It emphasizes that whether one has a traditional fireplace or a digital Yule log, the goal is to infuse warmth and holiday spirit into the living space. The piece compiles a selection of aesthetically pleasing fireplaces from across the web, ranging from classic designs with vibrant greens and opulent ribbons to more subtle arrangements that still evoke the season. Several examples illustrate diverse decorating approaches. One features an eclectic display of dried palms, serving as an unconventional yet clever substitute for traditional holiday greenery. These palms are complemented by dried protea, which introduce a touch of warmth and contrast with a matte black mantel, creating a dramatic visual effect. Another approach highlights the importance of meticulous detailing for a holiday-centric mantel. This involves incorporating metallic accents to add shimmer and layering various textures. Suggestions include using cozy stockings, strands of garland, and even neatly stacked firewood to achieve a dynamic and inviting finish. For those seeking a departure from the conventional red and green holiday palette, the article suggests a more dramatic and pared-back Scandinavian-chic style. This can be achieved with a prominent wreath positioned above the mantel and a few votive candles, demonstrating that less can be more in creating an impactful holiday statement. An example from Everygirl co-founder Alaina Kaczmarski showcases a bright and festive mantel that integrates traditional elements like a pine garland, wreath, string lights, and classic stockings. The design achieves a timeless yet fresh look, with an ornate mirror above the mantel contributing to its sophisticated appeal. A creative and minimalist take on fireplace decor involves a custom-made neon sign, which compensates for the absence of numerous festive adornments. When paired with a tidy stack of birch logs, this setup evokes the ambiance of a Scandinavian cabin, demonstrating how modern elements can be integrated into traditional spaces. Another illustration features a beautifully adorned mantel alongside an illusion of a snow-capped Christmas tree. The delicate blue shade of the adjacent built-ins helps the surrounding decor stand out, contributing to the overall modern aesthetic of the room. A cozy minimalist approach is presented with a wood-burning fireplace flanked by parallel stacks of fresh-cut logs. Despite the absence of a prominent mantel, a modest wreath maintains the style, proving that simplicity can be equally effective. For non-traditional holiday decor, oversized tinsel paper stockings are suggested as a playful and creative alternative. This idea encourages stepping outside conventional decorating norms to add a unique touch. A boho-inspired marble mantel is transformed into a rich holiday scene using lanterns, tinsel, bottleneck trees, and copper string lights, offering numerous detailed elements for inspiration. This example emphasizes layering different textures and light sources to create a captivating display. An untraditional fireplace, such as a wood-burning stove set on a chic brick platform, is also featured. In an Upstate New York home, this stove is complemented by a whitewashed backdrop and a nearby Christmas tree, with a bare wreath placed high above the stove completing the picturesque winter scene. Finally, for those without a real fireplace, the article suggests constructing a faux fireplace using wooden slabs. This transforms a plain wall into a festive focal point, especially when adorned with fresh greens, showcasing how creativity can overcome architectural limitations to achieve a desired holiday atmosphere. #FestiveFireplaces #WinterDecor #MantelDecor #HolidayInspiration #CozyHome #ChristmasDecor #HomeDecorIdeas #InteriorDesign #SeasonalDecor

Fireplace hearths have historically served as the central gathering point in homes, offering warmth and comfort. Beyond their practical function, hearths are integral to introducing character and style into a living space, often providing additional seating in the case of raised designs. Even modern fireplace installations, which may not strictly require a hearth, frequently incorporate them for aesthetic purposes. Hearth designs can be styled year-round to enhance the fireplace's visual appeal, whether or not a fire is actively burning. Selecting appropriate, non-combustible materials is crucial for solid-fuel burning fireplaces. Materials like brick and stone, with their natural textures and grains, can create an inviting atmosphere. While gas fires still require a hearth, electric fireplaces have fewer requirements, often not needing one at all. Despite this, many contemporary designs feature hearths as decorative elements. The article explores various approaches to fireplace hearth design, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. One design strategy involves mixing old and new elements. For instance, in traditional properties, retaining original flagstone surrounds and concrete hearths can provide a rustic anchor. Modern touches can be introduced by painting the room in neutral, warm hues to complement the existing fireplace palette. Another option is a raised hearth, which can evoke a cozy, cabin-like ambiance. White-washed stone is a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice for this style. When planning for extra seating, the height of a raised hearth is important, with 15 to 18 inches generally recommended for comfort and accessibility. Maintaining color consistency between the hearth and surround can significantly impact a room's perceived dimensions. Matching colors, even with different materials, can make a space feel larger and more cohesive. Decorating the mantelpiece with items like vases and mirrors can further balance the look. For modern homes, flexible designs like free-standing stoves offer versatility, allowing for options such as traditional hearths or mounting on benches, often with integrated log storage or exposed flues. This flexibility enables complete transformation of the space. Flush hearths are a practical choice for smaller rooms, preventing the fireplace from protruding too much and improving spatial flow. This design also requires less material, making it a more budget-friendly option. For a bold look, dark materials like granite or slate can be used for hearths. Granite is durable and scratch-resistant, suitable for solid-fuel fires, but needs to be "slabbed" to accommodate expansion from heat. Slate offers a deep matte grey tone or a glossy black finish when polished. Patterned tiles are another popular choice for adding character and fun, whether in vintage or contemporary settings. Designers often pick out tile shades to create cohesion throughout the room, using neutral fireplace surrounds to highlight the subtle pattern. For DIY enthusiasts, peel-and-stick tiles offer a temporary, cost-effective solution, though they are generally not suitable for hot surfaces. Incorporating houseplants can bring life to a hearth, with forgiving varieties like Snake Plants, ZZ plants, and Pothos suitable for lower light and less frequent watering. Brick hearths, known for being stylish, affordable, and heat-resistant, can be modernized with a fresh coat of paint. Bold colors or glossy finishes can create a contemporary statement. For authentic renovations, preserving original fireplace features while making subtle updates, such as painting a plaster mantel an off-white to mimic stone and selecting a dark bluestone for the hearth, can maintain historical integrity while providing a fresh look. Personal touches, such as hand-painted tiles, can add unique character. Finally, playing with texture, even within a monochromatic scheme, by combining different stone finishes for the hearth and surround, can add depth and interest to the fireplace design. Practicality and local building codes should always guide material and height choices for hearths, ensuring safety and functionality. #FireplaceHearth #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #HearthMaterials #ModernFireplace #TraditionalFireplace #DIYHomeDecor #HomeRenovation

With winter approaching in the northern hemisphere, this lookbook showcases ten distinctive fireplaces that enhance both the visual appeal and warmth of their surrounding spaces. These examples provide visual inspiration for home interiors. The collection features a variety of designs, including a fireplace that integrates with a staircase, one inspired by a Venetian tomb, and another evoking a campfire within a cave-like setting. This article is part of an ongoing series offering visual inspiration for home design, with previous entries covering domestic gyms, cross-laminated timber interiors, exposed brickwork, and bohemian-style hotels. Among the highlighted fireplaces is one in The Author's House in Denmark by Sleth, a copper-clad writer's cabin. This fireplace, with its deep blue chimney breast, stands in stark contrast to the natural material palette of the cabin, making it a central visual element. In Chile, GAAA's Casa Malalcahuello, a red-roofed gabled structure on a mountainous slope, features a large conical-shaped chimney partly clad in stone. Seating is arranged around this fireplace to create a cozy atmosphere. UUfie's Lake Cottage in Canada, an extension to a woodland home, incorporates a fireplace on the living room's rear wall, framed by a cut-out mirroring the pitched roof. The space between the fireplace and the cedar wall is filled with chopped wood. Adjo Studio's Penthouse BV in Belgium features a mid-century modern-style fireplace clad in cherry wood veneer, matching the apartment's walls and dividing the living room from the library. In Berlin, Philipp von Matt's O12 artist's residence includes a triangular fireplace with a circular hearth, drawing inspiration from classical architecture, specifically the Pyramid of Cestius in Rome and Antonio Canova's tomb in Venice. DKA Architects and Kl.tz Design's Ski Lodge in Val Saint-Côme, Canada, presents a black concrete fireplace as a focal point, with a cut-out for storing chopped wood. John Wardle's Fairhaven Beach House in Australia, an angular three-story residence, features a large industrial-style wood-burning fireplace that warms the home and imparts a rustic feel. Atelier Oslo's Timber Cabin in Norway incorporates a black fluted fireplace on a raised platform, surrounded by curving basalt walls, designed to mimic a campfire with glass encasing the firebox. Gus Wüstemann's Pavilion House in Switzerland utilizes concrete and timber, with a built-in concrete fireplace extending to form a window seat. Lastly, Liddicoat & Goldhill's Ancient Party Barn in the UK, a conversion of an 18th-century structure, features a tapering brick chimney housing both a fireplace and a steel spiral staircase, with the fireplace opening onto a seating area and the staircase winding up to a mezzanine bedroom. #FireplaceDesign #HomeInteriors #InteriorDesignInspiration #ArchitecturalFeatures #ResidentialArchitecture #ModernFireplaces #InteriorDecor

This article offers 51 ideas and expert tips for decorating a fireplace mantel, transforming it into a year-round focal point that complements various home styles and interior designs. The mantel can be adorned with a range of items, including framed art, decorative mirrors, candles, unique objects, dried florals, or live plants. It serves as an ideal space to showcase travel souvenirs, personal collections, or to introduce color, texture, and personality into a room. Expert insights from interior designers such as Rozit Arditi, Michelle Gage, and Meg Young are integrated throughout the article to provide guidance on effective mantel styling. The article begins by suggesting the use of bud vases for floral displays, emphasizing the flexibility to change flowers seasonally or opt for high-quality faux alternatives. It then recommends lining up pillar candlesticks to create visual impact and a relaxing ambiance, with Arditi advising the use of items of various sizes and heights to ensure balance. Another idea is to layer in a vintage portrait, with Gage highlighting the importance of a tall central piece like a mirror or artwork, flanked by objects of varying heights. For mantels with a TV above, layering framed art and objects on either side can help divert focus. Inexpensive touches like vintage doilies are presented as a way to add character. The concept of a plant shelf with empty pots alongside live greenery creates a charming country cottage aesthetic. The article also encourages combining mirrors and artwork for an intriguing display and advocates for a "less is more" approach, especially for mantels with existing intricate details. Further suggestions include decorating with dried or fresh greens, lining the mantel with books for a cozy, library-like feel, and using empty vintage frames for a shabby chic look. When a TV is positioned above the mantel, incorporating plants, pictures, and candles can still personalize the space. Displaying colorful glassware, adding coastal-themed decor with nautical touches, and personalizing with oversized alphabet letters are also explored. Gold or brass figurines are recommended for an instant touch of glam, while trailing plants can create an asymmetrical, casual look. The article details how colorful or muted abstract art can make a statement without overwhelming the space. It explores eclectic mixes of objects, hanging garlands, and using organic-shaped mirrors for a retro vibe. Displaying framed pieces as a leaning gallery, showcasing decorative clocks for a traditional touch, and coordinating mantel decor with the hearth using pottery and other accents are also covered. Luxe and classic looks can be achieved with ornate gold mirrors, which also serve to bounce light and make rooms appear larger. Practical advice includes flipping books with neutral covers for textural accents, adopting a map theme with framed antique maps, and layering boho-style pieces like fringed garlands and wooden mirrors. Unique ideas include displaying a hat collection, incorporating rustic horn sculptures, and using natural elements like shells for a coastal feel. Bold art with contrasting colors can create drama, while strategic layering of smaller framed works creates depth. Maximalist mantels can be achieved by grouping baskets and other objects, while vintage portraits and posters add character and conversation starters. Finally, displaying a mix of plants, adding pops of blue with ginger jars, combining black and gold items for a cohesive look, showcasing decorative plates, and using warm earth tones with geometric art prints and pampas grass are presented. The article concludes with the idea of a floral theme, displaying vintage teacups, reflecting local surroundings, mixing modern and classic art, adding small table lamps, and effectively concealing a TV with options like the Samsung Frame TV. #FireplaceMantel #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DecoratingTips #StylingIdeas #FocalPoint #RoomDesign #HomeAccents #DesignTrends

This article explores the diverse and luxurious fireplaces found in the homes of various celebrities, highlighting how these features contribute to the overall aesthetic and comfort of their living spaces. It showcases a range of styles, from rustic and traditional to modern and chic, reflecting the individual tastes of each celebrity. The article begins by noting the appeal of fireplaces during colder months, emphasizing that celebrities also value these elements in their homes. Geri Horner's fireplace is depicted as an open fire with wood and coals, aligning with her rustic home aesthetic. It is adorned with ornaments and photographs on the mantle. Jennifer Lopez's Hamptons home features a stone-surrounded open fire with a black front and wooden mantle, enhanced by a floral bouquet. Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell's Los Angeles mansion includes a chic white mantelpiece with a marble interior, topped with a television and houseplants. Catherine Zeta-Jones' New York mansion showcases a lavish marble fireplace in her bathroom, complemented by a large arched mirror and a fur-covered chair. Gok Wan's London home features a striking black fireplace set against bold blue walls, creating a warm ambiance. Gregg Wallace's family home boasts a brickwork fireplace with a wood stove and logs, decorated with stockings and lights for Christmas. Jamie Oliver's Essex residence has a rustic open fire with brickwork and a stone step, accented by a patterned rug. Lisa Faulkner and John Torode's home includes an ornate black open fire within a white marble surround, detailed with carvings and dressed with photographs, ornaments, and a mantlepiece clock, alongside a matching white mirror. Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes' Surrey mansion features a modern, in-built glass fireplace beneath a flatscreen television, departing from traditional designs. Stacey Solomon's Essex home has a faux log burner and a fluffy rug, complemented by a wooden beam shelf above the fireplace, creating a country-cottage feel. Finally, Victoria and David Beckham's Cotswolds home showcases a rustic stone fireplace with chevron-detail tiles and a simple black grate, complete with candlesticks for evening ambiance. The article illustrates how these celebrities incorporate fireplaces as central elements for warmth, style, and personal expression within their residences. #CelebrityHomes #FireplaceDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #RusticCharm #ModernFireplaces #InteriorDesignTrends #CelebrityLifestyle

This article focuses on mantel decor ideas, emphasizing that mantels are not just for the holiday season but can be a focal point in a room year-round. It highlights the mantel as prime decor real estate, ideal for showcasing collections and adding personality through color, texture, and various objects like artworks, mirrors, candles, vases, and plants. The article presents a range of design philosophies, from eclectic and crowded with sentimental items to minimalist and pared-back, suggesting that personal taste should guide decoration choices. One key idea is to switch out decor elements seasonally, not just for Christmas, but throughout the year to keep the space fresh and engaging. Lucy St George of Rockett St George advises curating a core display that can be easily updated with seasonal touches, such as adding fairy lights for Christmas. Abigail Ahern reinforces this by recommending a large-scale focal point like artwork or a mirror, then incorporating seasonal items like candles, grasses, and earthy textures. For minimalist mantels, the article suggests extending decoration to the floor space with baskets and ottomans. Another approach involves layering framed prints for a relaxed, chic, and uncluttered look. Overlapping artwork with similar color palettes but varying heights and widths adds visual interest. Incorporating vintage frames, even in modern settings, can introduce character and a rustic touch. The concept of playing with symmetry is also explored. While mantels naturally lend themselves to symmetrical arrangements, the article suggests an "off-symmetrical" design to avoid a forced or overly curated appearance. This involves using similar but not identical items at the ends of the mantel and centering primary elements like prints or mirrors. The article encourages individuals to make their mantel reflect their personality, viewing it as a micro-scale space to experiment with colors, textures, and shapes without overwhelming the room. Lucy St George advises selecting "treasures" that evoke joy and mixing them with varied heights, textures, and colors to create a bold and beautiful display. Scented candles and unique ornaments are also recommended to enhance the ambiance and personalization. For those with a TV above their mantel, the article offers a solution: using a Frame TV that doubles as artwork. This allows for changing art displays while still having the option for TV viewing, preserving the aesthetic of the fireplace. When decorating around a TV, the advice is to select low-sitting pieces that won't distract from the screen, such as a collection of ceramics. Crowding a shelf with greenery is presented as a vibrant idea, using an array of plants in matching or similar pots but with varying heights and shapes to create a cohesive yet diverse display. The article also advocates for the classic use of a large mirror above a mantel, noting its ability to bounce light, add depth, and create the illusion of more space. It highlights how a simple, ornate mirror can be the sole focal point, especially in a monochrome scheme, demonstrating that "less is more." Scale is emphasized as crucial for a well-curated mantel. The general strategy involves placing taller pieces at the back (prints, mirrors) and progressively smaller items towards the front. Overlapping is encouraged for depth, and decorators are advised to view the mantel from various angles in the room. The article also suggests working with odd numbers for arrangements. For a minimalist aesthetic, selecting a few choice pieces in front of a sleek, frameless mirror is recommended, with the mirror doubling the decor to prevent a sparse look. Finally, adding a flourish of blooms in stem vases provides natural textures and colors, easily changeable with the seasons, and can offer a soft contrast to darker room schemes. For modern mantels, simplicity with a large print or mirror as a starting point is key, with the option to mix in ornate vintage pieces for character. For long mantels, the focus should remain on the middle, tapering decor towards the ends to avoid accentuating excessive length. #MantelDecor #FireplaceIdeas #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SeasonalDecor #LivingRoomDesign #PersonalizedDecor #SymmetryInDesign #GreeneryDecor #MirrorPlacement

Suspended fireplaces, a design innovation first introduced in 1968 by former humanities professor Dominique Imbert, have evolved into a striking architectural element featured in diverse home styles. Imbert's original 360-degree pivoting fireplace, born from a farmhouse restoration in France, gained international recognition, winning Italy's Pulchra design competition in 2009 as the 'world's most beautiful object.' This design has also been exhibited in prestigious art museums, including the Bordeaux Contemporary Art Museum and New York's Guggenheim Museum. This article showcases 20 examples of these floating fireplaces integrated into various modern homes, demonstrating their versatility and aesthetic appeal. One example is the iT House by Taalman Koch Architects near Joshua Tree National Park, which features a suspended Fire Orb fireplace within a glass enclosure, blending raw industrial style with green design. Another notable project is Ski Lift by Michael Johnson, where a Bathyscafocus by Focus Creations fireplace warms a modern abode cantilevered over a backyard ravine in Winter Park, Colorado, maximizing views and space. Chilewich|Sultan's country retreat in upstate New York includes an Ergofocus fireplace, adding a contemporary touch to their loft-style vacation home. PROD Architecture + Design's 'House of Four Houses' in Penafiel, Portugal, incorporates a suspended fireplace to complement its blend of traditional farmhouse aesthetics and contemporary features. Paola Navone's transformation of a 200-year-old Umbrian factory into a home highlights a suspended fireplace as a central design element in the expansive, high-ceilinged space. The Strohhaus by Felix Jerusalem in Switzerland features a modern, green design built on pilings, with a suspended fireplace adding warmth to its formaldehyde-free compressed straw structure. Wood Arkitektur + Design's 'Stairway to Heaven' retreat in Norway includes a rotating Ergofocus fireplace, harmonizing with its heat-treated pine and charcoal brick exterior. Donald Wexler's steel and glass house in Palm Springs, a midcentury modern marvel, demonstrates how these fireplaces fit seamlessly into open, indoor-outdoor living spaces. Chris Dyson Architects' conversion of a Victorian cooperage in London showcases a modern home with a triple-height living space and an integrated fireplace. Architect James H. Maul’s 1971 Morro Bay home, connected to nature with wooden construction and floor-to-ceiling windows, incorporates a midcentury-inspired fireplace. Casa Luum by Pedro Domingos in Portugal features a 1965 Spanish-designed midcentury fireplace within a home that opens up to its natural landscape. Other examples include SAAHA's Ankersvingen Annex in Norway, villAma by SAFA Pekka Mäki / Sigge Oy in Finland, and an updated farmhouse by CAFElab in Rome, all utilizing suspended fireplaces to enhance their unique architectural visions. Harry’s House by Bespoke Architects in Australia, J+STUDIO’s South Lake Union Loft in Seattle, and The Roth Residence by Buff & Hensman in Los Angeles also illustrate the aesthetic and functional benefits of these heating elements. Lastly, the Bent/Sliced House by Hufft and Beaver Street Reprise by Craig Steely Architecture in San Francisco, along with Matarozzi Pelsinger Builders' Aquatic Park Penthouse, further demonstrate the diverse applications and enduring appeal of suspended fireplace designs in modern residential architecture. #SuspendedFireplaces #ModernDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #HyggeVibes #ContemporaryHomes #DesignInspiration

As the holiday season concludes, the article suggests that fireplaces should remain a central feature for maintaining a cozy atmosphere throughout winter. Fireplaces provide a unique ambiance and glow that other home decor items cannot easily replicate, making them desirable even in warmer climates. For those looking to refresh their fireplace, a curated list of 24 designer-approved ideas is presented, covering various aspects from mantel decor to material choices. The first idea, 'Take Inspo from Your Surroundings,' highlights a Florida home where the fireplace is covered in crushed seashells, integrating it with the beach house environment. 'Limewash It' details how Melissa Anderson of OAD Interiors limewashed an original stone fireplace to lighten the room while preserving its historic feel. For a dramatic focal point, 'Suspend It in Air' showcases a midcentury-style suspended fireplace in a bedroom, contributing to a glamping aesthetic. 'Frame It in Tiles' suggests using tiles to frame the fireplace, drawing inspiration from existing decor like Heath Ceramics bowl collections, as demonstrated by Kevin Swayers. 'Make It Asymmetrical' features a Calacatta Verde-clad marble fireplace with asymmetrical fluting and a firewood holder, transforming it into an art piece. 'Use What You Have Around' illustrates resourcefulness, with Krysta Gibbons of Kipling House using leftover trim to finish a fireplace, ensuring cohesion with the home's existing design. 'Salvage Something Iconic' encourages incorporating salvaged items, such as a Waldorf-Astoria hotel mantel, to add history and unique character to a space. 'Ditch the Firewood' presents an alternative for warmth using fireballs instead of wood, as seen in a bar lounge designed by Marie Flanigan. 'Make It Ornate' shows how an ornate black mantel can add luxury and fun to a library, tying into other black accents in the room. 'Cover It in Concrete' describes a concrete fireplace with a board-form technique to create a subtle wood-grain effect, designed by Liz Carroll to avoid a stark appearance. 'Keep It Minimalist' highlights a simple metal fireplace surround with a subtle design, favored by minimalist aesthetics, and styled with sculptural art. 'Feign Functionality' offers an idea for non-working fireplaces by stacking logs, providing a rustic cabin charm, as implemented by Brad Ramsey. 'Display Antiques' suggests using empty fireplaces to house decorative items like paper fans or other antiques, nodding to the structure's past. 'Retile It' demonstrates combining old and new by retiling an empty fireplace with graphic tiles that complement geometric cabinets, adding a modern touch to a Victorian mantel. 'Paint It Black' is a solution for brick fireplaces that don't match modern decor, creating depth and discreetly integrating the bricks. 'Go Monochrome' shows Leanne Ford's approach of painting an entire non-functional fireplace white, including decorative firewood, and warming the room with pampas grass. 'Use a Statement Screen' advises using decorative screens to conceal empty fireplaces while enhancing the surrounding area. 'Display Artwork' transforms an empty fireplace into a gallery space for pottery and artwork. 'Arrange Flowers' offers a simple yet effective way to liven up a fireplace niche with floral arrangements. Finally, 'Fill It With Vintage Books' suggests stacking vintage books in an empty fireplace to complement rustic or aged decor, as exemplified by Jersey Ice Cream Co. #FireplaceDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CozyHome #DesignInspiration #RenovationIdeas #SeasonalDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures

As the festive season concludes and holiday decorations are stored away, many homeowners face the common dilemma of a bare and uninspired fireplace mantel. This article provides guidance on how to transition from festive decor to elegant winter mantel styling. The key is to replace traditional holiday elements with neutral tones, rustic foliage, warm lighting, and vintage-inspired accessories to create a cozy and characterful display. The article highlights several key components for winter mantel decorating. For instance, terracotta vases and jugs are recommended for a vintage feel, to be filled with seasonal florals. Natural dried tallow berry bundles are suggested to add height, texture, and warmth, emphasizing their fluffiness and year-round beauty. Modern metallic elements are introduced through items like a Sophie Lou Jacobsen Twist Nickel-Plated Candleholder, which aligns with contemporary chrome trends and offers a unique aesthetic. Candlelight is emphasized as crucial for reintroducing a warm glow to the space. Bordeaux taper candles are specifically mentioned for their on-trend color and ability to add a burst of color. The concept of "lampscaping" the mantel is introduced with a portable scallop shade table lamp, promoting ambient lighting without the need for wires, making it versatile for various areas of the home. For those reluctant to completely abandon garlands, the article suggests opting for non-festive options like an ivy leaves iron garland, which provides a natural yet sophisticated touch. Vintage-inspired accessories, such as an antiqued brass shelf clock, are recommended to fill empty spaces previously occupied by holiday-specific items, adding character and charm. The use of unique elements like a rock match holder is also highlighted for incorporating intriguing shapes and textures into the mantel vignette. Finally, the article encourages integrating current color trends, such as deep plum-purple artificial Cimicifuga plant leaf sprays, to add dimension and seasonal color. By following these recommendations, homeowners can easily transform their mantel from a post-holiday void into a stylish and inviting focal point, setting a refreshed tone for the new year. #WinterDecor #MantelDecor #FireplaceStyling #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #SeasonalDecor #VintageDecor #Candlelight

This article showcases ten welcoming living rooms where the fireplace serves as the central design element, providing visual inspiration for home interiors, especially relevant during colder months. The featured projects highlight diverse architectural styles and material choices, all unified by their focus on creating cozy and inviting spaces around a fireplace. The first example is 116 Sorauren Street in Toronto by Ancerl Studio, where a black steel fireplace on a cast concrete plinth creates a comfortable nook within a living room that emphasizes natural materials and textiles. Next, the Three Chimney House in the US by T W Ryan Architecture features a modernist white-brick structure with an elegant, brick-clad fireplace. This fireplace is integrated into one of the house's three prominent white chimneys, contrasting with tall white walls and ceilings while complementing upholstered furniture in warm colours like aubergine purple and mustard yellow. Pound Ridge House by Tsao & McKown in the US draws inspiration from Japanese architectural principles, incorporating a pared-back fireplace on a square stone hearth positioned between the living and dining areas, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese irori. A bronze pyramidal flue extracts smoke, and the room is detailed with wood and cream-coloured textiles, enhanced by a generous skylight. Teton House in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, by Olson Kundig, features a substantial black fireplace that almost upstages the floor-to-ceiling views of the mountainous landscape. The fireplace's simple form is complemented by leather chairs in warm browns and various wood and woven textures. House for Grandparents in California, renovated by Dash Marshall, integrates a broad brick fireplace into its living room. The design, informed by Spanish missions, combines geometric forms and spartan materials with vibrant elements like a colourful painting and rug, along with cylindrical metal coffee tables that reflect the fire's glow. The Smith Residence in Canada by MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple features a massive granite fireplace, sourced from a nearby quarry, in its living room. This holiday home's fireplace includes both a fire aperture and a log storage space, situated beneath black steel trusses and complemented by a high-pile rug and brown leather sofas. Wasatch House in Utah, another project by Olson Kundig, includes a library with a large bronze flue and an unusual portrait-shaped fireplace. The room, designed with a colour palette of dark browns and greys, creates a relaxed atmosphere, flanked by ceiling-height bookcases and furnished with a wide leather sofa and cognac-coloured leather chairs. The Lincoln project in Belgium by Notan Office, a rooftop extension, features a fireplace inspired by Alvar Aalto. This fireplace, made from concrete and ceramic construction blocks in warm orange and pale grey, wraps around a corner and is described as an "artifactual element" with an organic, rough feel. Little Peek, a holiday home in Maine by Berman Horn Studio, includes a built-in fireplace within a narrow stonework flue in its open-plan kitchen and living room. Designed for all seasons, the house combines a light interior and numerous windows with the practical warmth of the fireplace for New England winters. Finally, Casa Prè de Sura in Italy by Casati showcases a freestanding, trapezoidal prism-shaped white fireplace in a gabled house with rough limestone interior walls. The fireplace serves both as a heat source and a decorative element, featuring a side ledge for wood and a colour palette of beige and cream to match the limestone walls. #LivingRoomDesign #FireplaceInteriors #CozyHomes #InteriorDesignInspiration #ArchitecturalFireplaces #HomeDecor #WarmInteriors #ModernLivingRooms #RusticFireplaces