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Putting in a new fireplace does take some thought but it doesn’t need to be hard. We’ve put together some tips for integrating your linear fireplace into your home to help guide you through the thought process.
More than 65% of traditional chimney fireplaces are aged and inefficient. Keeping one in your home may cost you money and endanger your family.
It’s no wonder people are considering a shift to contemporary fireplace designs—like a linear fireplace.
Most people know how to incorporate a traditional fireplace into their decor. However, the modern lines of a linear fireplace can be a challenge for some. In fact, linear fireplaces work well in almost any home, so long as you have a few design tips up your sleeve.
Read on to find out what those are!
1. Consider Surrounding Materials
When it comes to fireplace design ideas, the materials that surround your linear fireplace matter—a lot. Look for materials that complement your current home style.
For example, if your home is more rustic or traditional, reclaimed wood or wood with a distressed finish would be a good choice. Steel, concrete, or exposed brickwork are better with modern home decor. Natural stone, such as marble or granite, adds a touch of luxury to the space and works with almost any decorative preference.
In addition to the materials themselves, the color and texture also significantly impact. Consider contrasting hues or finishes to create visual interest—for example, pairing a smooth stone surround with a rough-hewn wood mantel.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box. After all, this is your chance to create a personalized design you and your family will love for years to come.
2. Don’t Forget About Lighting
Lighting plays a significant role in showcasing your linear fireplace. It can help you create the ambiance you want in a room or showcase particular features.
There are several lighting options to consider when designing your fireplace surround.
Recessed lighting above or around the fireplace creates an inviting glow. Sconces add visual interest—especially considering there are so many designs to choose from—and provide an additional light source that can be used instead of overheads.
Dimmer switches are a good option when adjusting the lighting to suit different occasions.
3. Think About Scale
Next, you want to consider the scale of your fireplace. Fireplace design tips typically state the fireplace should be in proportion to the room it’s mounted within. This creates a sense of balance that’s easy on the eye.
A tiny fireplace will get lost in an ample open-plan living-dining-kitchen space. However, a large, linear fireplace with a longer width placed in the center of the area anchors the room, creating a focal point.
Done right, it can even make for a stunning statement piece!
Conversely, modestly sized linear fireplaces are best suited to small rooms. It creates a cozy ambiance and doesn’t overwhelm the space.
In addition to the size of the fireplace itself, consider the size and placement of furniture and decor. For example, pair a large fireplace with an oversized rug or an enormous piece of art. Match a diminutive fireplace in a small room with an understated wooden rocking chair and knitted throw blanket.
4. Plan for Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for any fireplace… And linear fireplaces are no exception.
When planning the placement of your new fireplace, it’s vital to consider venting. Linear fireplaces typically come with three fuel options:
- Gas
- Electric
- Wood
Each has its venting requirements, which are vital for safe operation.
Gas fireplaces are often vented through the wall or roof, and wood-burning fireplaces need a chimney.
Electric fireplaces don’t need external venting, making them the most convenient option. If you’re installing a linear fireplace outdoors, this is less of a consideration—no matter the fuel type.
If you don’t install and vent a linear fireplace (or any fireplace for that matter) correctly, you risk fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, and reduced fireplace lifespan. Don’t worry, we can help you through every aspect of your ideation and installation.
5. Choose the Right Fuel Source
As mentioned above, linear fireplaces use one of three fuel sources: gas, wood, or electricity.
You might not think this matters for interior design, but it does! That’s because each fuel type has a certain ambiance and specific installation requirements, as also mentioned above.
Gas fireplaces are popular with homeowners because they’re easy to use and maintain. They mimic the flames of a wood-burning fire. However, they require venting, which can mar your existing decor if not installed correctly.
Electric fireplaces plug into an outlet or are wired into your electrical system by an electrician. This makes them exceedingly low maintenance and easy to incorporate into your room layout. Plus, they have helpful customizable features and near-endless design options.
If you want that cozy crackle and comforting scent of a real fire, a wood-burning linear fireplace is your best option. However, these require specialist installation and ongoing maintenance—especially as they age.
6. Incorporate Storage
Custom storage solutions are trending in 2023.
While storage professionals often focus on the kitchen, there’s no reason you can’t apply that advice to other areas of the home. And by that, we mean incorporating built-in storage around your linear fireplace!
Consider adding shelves or cabinets to hold books or display collectibles. Incorporate a built-in bench or seating area for added functionality. Make space for a hidden television, pull-down projector screen, or audiophile setup.
When designing the storage around your fireplace, consider both form and function. The storage shouldn’t just be practical but complement the room’s overall design.
Floating shelves are sleek and modern. Wooden and glass cabinetry adds a touch of the traditional. Sometimes, a simple stone mantle is all you need.
Understanding Linear Fireplace Design for Homes
Designing your linear fireplace provides an exciting opportunity to enhance the ambiance and functionality of your home.
By considering factors such as scale, ventilation, storage, and lighting, you can create a beautiful and functional fireplace that complements rather than interrupts a room’s decor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different design elements, too. This will ensure you find the perfect combinations for you.
Dreifuss Fireplaces has been bringing the heat with quality and service to homeowners in Pennsylvania and New Jersey since 1876. We specialize in gas, electric, and wood fireplaces for residential and commercial use.
Shop our linear fireplaces today!
Related Articles:
The Benefits of a Linear Fireplace Over a Traditional Fireplace
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