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There are few things cozier than a wood-burning fireplace. That distinctive crackle the wood makes as it chars. That slightly smoky scentreminiscent of the festive season.
Of course, not everyone can have (nor do they want) a traditional fireplace in their home. They can be challenging to maintain and keep clean. Thankfully, fireplace design has come a long way since its invention in the 15th century.
People who still crave the aesthetic of an open fire can instead look to modern fireplace ideas. These include everything from long, elegant electric fireplaces that mimic the look and feel of a real fire to elegant floor-to-ceiling gas fireplaces with decorative mantles and more.
Read on to get some contemporary fireplace ideas for your home.
1. A Tiled Facade
One way to achieve modern fireplaces is to renovate your existing mantle using tiles.
Subway tiles have been on trend for kitchen backsplashes and bathrooms for a few years. And their popularity isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. Why not continue this decidedly 2020s aesthetic into your living room and create a subway tile fireplace surround?
Alternatively, consider painting or refacing the brick facade of your fireplace. Nowadays, you can get everything from glass to metallic bricks. Try placing the bricks vertically instead of lengthways for a more contemporary feel.
2. Open Fireplace
An open fireplace is probably one of the most coveted fireplace solutions right now.
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like; instead of having the fireplace covered by a glass front or a fireguard, the flames crackle gently in front of your eyes like a campfire.
Given their exposed nature, we recommend installing this type of fireplace in areas with less activity.
3. Large-Scale Artwork
Are you looking for a way to really highlight your large fireplace? It’s time to visit your local art dealer and source some enormous, original art!
A vibrant, oversized artwork hung right about the mantle of your fireplace will lend a touch of drama to the room. Just remember that painting close to a fire can get hot, so it’s best to do this with an electric fireplace to reduce risk.
4. Mini Fireplace
Instead of purchasing a tacky portable heater that’s bound to break down as soon as it gets icy, why not go for a miniature fireplace?
These teeny versions of their traditional counterparts are surprisingly efficient and budget-friendly. Plus, they fit into even the smallest condos or rooms while still looking contemporary.
5. Think Outside the Box
When you first think of a fireplace, it’s probably a traditional, Victorian-era style fireplace with a mantle and decorative surround that springs to mind. However, since the invention of electric and gas fireplaces, fireplace manufacturers have developed a wide array of styles.
You can go long and thin, making a feature of the flames themselves, or tall and narrow to fit into the corner of an oddly proportioned room. You can have a squat fireplace with a mantle far lower than the standard eye-level height.
Don’t let tradition dominate your space design!
6. Tabletop Fireplace
Do you lack space? Are you undecided about whether you want a full-sized fireplace? Are you not interested in renovating your room to install a fireplace?
A tabletop fireplace can give you the cozy crackle you crave while being conveniently portable, easy to turn on or off, and highly decorative. Get one for your coffee table today!
7. Doubles Down on Display
Don’t get rid of that non-working traditional fireplace surround. Instead, make it current by adorning the mantle with your contemporary collections.
It could be ceramic sculptures by your favorite artist, woven baskets in different sizes and styles, or even Marvel action figurines!
Do you want to see the flames roar inside the firebox once again? Have a gas or electric fireplace installed where the wood once sat. It’s a much safer option.
8. Channel Cabin Chic
With the rise of trends like cottagecore, hygge, and the urban homesteading movement, anything rustic has automatically become modern.
This means wood-burning stoves are back in with a vengeance. After all, they don’t just heat your home. You can also cook a pretty delicious red wine and beef stew on top of them.
Make a feature of your new stove in your home. Create a brick or tile fireplace recess, and have your freshly chopped kindling stacked neatly to one side.
9. Double-Glass Fireplace
The double-glass fireplace is one of the most showstopping options today. They don’t just keep you and your family warmthey’re almost guaranteed to be the feature of any room they’re installed in.
The glass fronts on opposite sides of the fire define this type of fireplace, meaning you can see right the way through the fireplace. This makes them great for smaller, open-plan spaces.
10. Make the Most of Marble
Nothing says modern more than an enormous chunk of marble. Double down on the contemporary feel by choosing black and white contrasting stones or slabs with black veins running through the white quartz.
If you do choose to install a marble facade, go big. This type of fireplace needs to be the centerpiece of a room.
Incorporate Modern Fireplace Ideas Into Your Property
In the 21st century, the sky really is the limit when it comes to modern fireplace ideas. Rather than being restricted by keeping up with the Jones trends, homeowners and property managers can choose the type and style of fireplace that best suits their needs and aesthetics.
So you love the design stylings of the 1920s Art Deco era? You can have it!
Do you prefer a luxurious marble fireplace that’s simply beautiful to look at? Get that installed!
Are you a renter looking for a cozy portable fireplace that moves with you? There’s an option out there!
If you’re having trouble deciding between a wood-burning, gas, and electric fireplace, contact the Dreifuss Fireplaces team today. We’ve been serving Pennsylvania homeowners and commercial property owners for over a century and are experts at helping you create a welcoming ambiance in any home.
Latest Articles
Why Is Cold Air Coming Into My House From The Fireplace When It’s Not In Use?
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What Causes Cold Air to Come in Through the Fireplace? Cold air coming in through the fireplace can be caused by various factors such as a malfunctioning damper, inadequate insulation, or blockages in the chimney. In winter, when the fireplace is not in use, cold drafts can find their way into the house through the chimney and other openings, disrupting the airflow and causing temperature regulation problems. Insufficient insulation in the flue or around the fireplace can allow cold air to infiltrate the home easily. Damage seals or cracks in the chimney structure also contribute to air leakage issues. In addition, if the damper fails to close completely, it creates a direct pathway for cold air to enter. These factors not only make the heating system less efficient but can also lead to discomfort and higher energy bills. Proper maintenance, including regular chimney inspections and addressing insulation gaps, is crucial to optimize ventilation and heating efficiency. Is the Damper Closed? To prevent cold air from entering through the fireplace, one of the first things to check is whether the damper is closed properly. An open damper can allow cold drafts to flow into the house, leading to energy loss and decreased heating efficiency. This inefficiency not only results in higher heating costs but also puts unnecessary strain on the heating system, shortening its lifespan. An open damper can also reduce the overall effectiveness of the seal around the fireplace, allowing more air leakage. When the damper is not closed, it acts like an open vent, creating a direct pathway for cold air from the chimney to enter the home. Properly sealing the damper ensures that the fireplace remains a source of warmth rather than a conduit for cold air. Is the Chimney Cap Damaged or Missing? Another common reason for cold air coming in through the fireplace is a damaged or missing chimney cap. 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This can result in uneven heating throughout the house, with certain areas feeling noticeably colder due to the infiltration of outside air through the chimney gaps. The presence of these cracks can also lead to increased energy consumption as the heating system works harder to maintain a consistent temperature. Ensuring that these openings are properly sealed with an appropriate sealant is crucial in preventing cold air intrusion and maintaining an efficient airflow pattern within the home. How Can You Fix Cold Air Coming in Through the Fireplace? Addressing cold air entering through the fireplace requires specific solutions to seal off the pathways that allow the drafts to infiltrate the house. By installing chimney balloons, fireplace draft stoppers, and sealing cracks or gaps, homeowners can effectively reduce cold drafts and improve energy efficiency. Chimney balloons are inflatable devices that can be inserted into the chimney to block airflow and prevent cold air from coming down. Fireplace draft stoppers can be installed at the base of the fireplace to further prevent drafts. Sealing techniques, such as using heat-resistant sealant or insulation around the fireplace opening, can also play a crucial role in keeping the warmth inside and blocking out the cold. These methods not only help in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature but also contribute to reducing energy costs associated with heating. Install a Chimney Balloon Installing a chimney balloon is an effective way to block cold air from entering through the fireplace. By creating a seal within the chimney, the balloon effectively stops cold drafts from coming down into your living space. This mechanism works by expanding the balloon to fit snugly within the chimney flue, essentially creating a barrier that keeps cold air out. 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Accumulated ashes can pose safety hazards due to the buildup of soot and debris, increasing the risk of fire hazards and deteriorating indoor air quality. When fireplace ashes are not properly cleaned, they can become a breeding ground for pests and insects, creating a potential health hazard. In addition, the fine particles in ash can be easily disturbed, leading to the spread of harmful pollutants in the air. This can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies, especially for sensitive individuals. By establishing a routine cleaning schedule for fireplace ashes, homeowners can mitigate these risks and ensure a clean and safe living space for themselves and their families. How Often Should Fireplace Ashes Be Cleaned? Determining the frequency of cleaning fireplace ashes depends on a combination of maintenance tips, established routines, and best practices to ensure safety and efficiency. 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A sturdy scoop and shovel enable you to gather the ashes, while a bucket or bag can be used to safely transport them. Utilizing a vacuum with a HEPA filter ensures thorough cleaning without spreading dust. Wearing gloves protects your hands from debris and burns. A dustpan aids in collecting smaller particles. By using appropriate gear and tools, you not only maintain your fireplace effectively but also safeguard your health and surroundings. Fireplace Ash Vacuum A fireplace ash vacuum is a specialized tool designed for efficiently removing ashes from the hearth, ensuring proper cleaning while maintaining safety standards. This innovative device is equipped with a powerful motor and a HEPA filter to capture even the finest ash particles, preventing them from spreading into the air and causing respiratory issues. 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Avoid using abrasive tools or harsh chemicals that can etch or corrode the marble. Applying a protective sealant to the marble can create a barrier against potential damage. Regularly inspect the fireplace surround for any signs of wear or discoloration, addressing them promptly to prevent further deterioration. Age and Wear As marble fireplace surrounds age, they may start to show signs of wear, including minor imperfections and surface damage. These age-related issues can detract from the visual appeal of the fireplace and the overall aesthetics of the room. The natural aging process of marble can cause the surface to lose its shine and smoothness, making it prone to scratches, stains, and discoloration. To rejuvenate the appearance of the fireplace surround, refurbishment techniques such as polishing, sealing, and professional cleaning can be employed. Regular maintenance practices like gentle cleaning with a damp cloth, using pH-neutral cleaners, and avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive tools can help preserve the marble’s beauty and extend its lifespan. By taking proactive steps, homeowners can keep their marble fireplace surrounds looking elegant and well-maintained for years to come. How to Prevent Chipping on Marble Fireplace Surrounds? Preventing chipping on marble fireplace surrounds requires proactive maintenance and the implementation of protective measures to safeguard the surface from potential damage. Regularly cleaning the marble fireplace surround with a soft cloth and mild, non-abrasive cleaner can help to prevent dirt and debris buildup that could lead to scratching. Applying a protective sealant to the marble surface can provide an extra layer of defense against chipping and staining. 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In case of minor scratches or dull spots, a marble restoration kit can help in renewing the surface’s luster and appearance. Use Protective Measures Implementing protective measures like sealing the marble surface with a high-quality sealant can significantly reduce the risk of chipping on fireplace surrounds. These coatings act as a barrier against potential damage from external factors. By applying a sealant, you not only protect the natural beauty of the marble but also safeguard it from stains, scratches, and discoloration. When choosing a sealant, opt for one specifically designed for marble surfaces to ensure maximum effectiveness. It’s recommended to select a penetrating sealant that bonds with the marble rather than just sitting on the surface. Before application, thoroughly clean the marble fireplace surround and allow it to dry completely. Apply the sealant evenly using a clean cloth or brush, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. What to Do if Your Marble Fireplace Surround is Chipped? If your marble
