Fireplaces play a special role in the interior. If previously it had only one function - heating the room, now it is one of the main design elements that creates a special atmosphere. It’s nice to spend time in a living room with a fireplace, especially in the cold season, when it’s frosty outside, but your home is warm and cozy. The soothing crackle of wood, the mesmerizing flame of fire and the soft light emanating from the fireplace create the right atmosphere. In any home, an electric fireplace will become the center of attention. In modern design projects, the wall or niche where the fireplace is installed stands out. This could be decorative brickwork or stylish shelves with firewood. Often, original paintings, decorative items, or mirrors are used for decoration, visually enlarging the space.
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.
Advantages of a decorative hearth
The only difference between an electric fireplace and a real one is the absence of a chimney. Otherwise, the design repeats all the external features of a wood-burning fireplace. There is a fireplace in the building, and the portal itself is closed by a natural mantelpiece. The size of the fuel chamber varies greatly. In the case of a decorative fireplace, its depth does not exceed 20 cm. Additional volume is created by glued internal mirrors.
The imitation was invented for urban homes, where the installation of a real fireplace is prohibited due to safety concerns. Mainly because it is impossible to make a decent chimney. Well, maybe on the upper floors. But there, as elsewhere, the law prohibits lighting open fires.
Since there is usually no need for additional heating of the room, only aesthetic elements can be used. This type of decor can decorate rooms in any style. With a decorative fireplace in the living room, the living room benefits in many ways.
Among the advantages of a false hearth are the following:
- You don't need a lot of money to create decor. Except when you need to create a copy of a luxury design for an exclusive decoration style.
- Otherwise, even used materials can be used. For example, partitions from an old closet. Or even cardboard boxes from purchased household appliances.
- Wide selection of decorative elements. After all, in addition to store-bought products, you can make them yourself. Just use your imagination and the materials you have on hand.
- Imitation allows you to hide useful connections. For example, various wires and unsightly elements of the heating installation.
- Design functionality. If you wish, you can use the decoration for other purposes. You can also install a bookcase or storage on the portal.
- It gives the interior originality and adds a touch of home comfort.
For the latter, a decorative fireplace creates a genuine illusion of real fire. It is the open flame that gives the room coziness. There are several ways to create a convincing simulation, which are detailed below.
Living room styles with fireplace
In the modern world there is a wide variety of fireplaces with any finish. It can be made of marble, metal, natural stone and other materials. But the main thing is that the fireplace fits perfectly into the overall concept of the living room and only complements the interior, thought out to the smallest detail.
Minimalism
Increasingly, minimalism is used in interior design. It involves using a limited amount of furniture to create the most free space in the room. In this case, you can most often see a false fireplace in an apartment or an electrical structure in a spacious room. They best emphasize the restraint of the interior and do not contradict it.
Country style living room
This style is practically never found in cozy, small apartments. It is mainly chosen by owners of large country houses. They naturally feature a massive classic fireplace. By the way, if it is made of stone, you should not count on even, smooth lines. As for the interior as a whole, the living room should be decorated with taste. Various hunting trophies and weapons are the most common decorative details of such premises.
Modernism in the interior
In the modern world, the Art Nouveau style mainly consists of a combination of calm shades with contrasting tones, as well as simplicity and rationality. In addition, such a living room often uses a large number of mirrors and glass accents. All this helps to visually expand the space. Most often, this design can be seen in a private home. After all, only in a large room can you install a fireplace in the center, thereby making it the main hearth in the house. If Art Nouveau was chosen to decorate the apartment, use a false fireplace. But remember that in this case the firebox should be clearly visible, simulating flames and wood.
Classic living room with fireplace
Basically, living rooms with a fireplace are decorated in a classic style. It looks incredibly beautiful and elegant. Just imagine, light walls, elegant wooden furniture, a luxurious sofa, stucco molding, and a rather large chandelier. It is not surprising that in such an interior a fireplace will look most appropriate. As for its design, most often the facade is made of stone or wood, and there is no decor. This allows for elegant understatement. Basically, above such a fireplace there is a large mirror, a painting, or shelves with decorative items.
Loft in the living room
The loft style has become especially relevant in the modern world. Brick finishing can increasingly be seen even in a small apartment. The combination of such an interior with a fireplace looks fresh and interesting. Moreover, it does not necessarily have to be classic. Indeed, in this case, a combination of antiquity with modern technology would be appropriate. An alternative solution could be a false fireplace.
Provence
The design of the living room in the Provence style still bears the imprints of the southern countries. A light touch of antiquity combined with romance allows you to create a truly amazing interior. The decoration of the fireplace in this case is mainly made in the form of open brick. In addition, such a room always has a lot of floral print details. Most often, the Provence style is used for a country house or cottage, and in city apartments it is implemented extremely rarely.
Finishing methods
Almost any material can be used to decorate electric or artificial fireplaces, since the surface does not heat up to high temperatures. The most popular finishes include:
Tile
Ceramics are the leading finishing material for decorative porches. In addition to high fire resistance, this material is distinguished by a wide selection of colors and patterns.
Thanks to glazed tiles, the surface is easy to keep clean and does not allow moisture to pass through. The original shape of the tiles makes the fireplace a decorative element of the living room, regardless of its style.
Tree
Wood is not heat-resistant, but if you follow a few recommendations, you can easily restore your fireplace:
- The material is impregnated with a special fire retardant compound;
- The fireplace is equipped with a protective mesh;
- A ventilation system is provided;
- Wood is not used for covering the entire portal, but for decorative inserts;
- Ash and alder wood is not used.
Otherwise, there are no contraindications to using wood in the design of a fireplace.
Fake diamond
Artificial stone is quite popular due to its low cost compared to its natural counterpart, as well as similar properties.
This material is characterized by moisture resistance and durability, and its processing does not require special skills. Faux brick is preferred for the same reasons.
Stucco
When choosing this finish, you do not need to spend a lot of effort, time and money. The process is very simple and does not require additional strengthening. Choose materials that meet fire safety requirements.
The wide range of colors allows you to find the right shade to suit the style of the room, and it is easy to change it.
Living room with fireplace: how to arrange the furniture?
Be sure that in any case, the place by the fireplace will always be the most popular with all family members. To achieve this effect, you need to carefully consider the overall interior and furniture arrangement. After all, it is imperative to make sure that everyone can contemplate the fire and hear the crackle of the fireplace at the same time.
The lounge area, which consists of several armchairs, a floor lamp and a stylish coffee table, has become a kind of classic. In some cases, a large comfortable sofa with decorative pillows can also be located here. But always consider the parameters of the room. Because in a narrow living room, even a small amount of furniture can make the fireplace invisible. If desired, this space can be supplemented with a small footrest or rocking chair. Regardless of the option chosen, we recommend placing pieces of furniture no closer than 1.5 m from the fire source. This is due to safety regulations.
In any case, remember that the fireplace should fit organically into the interior of the living room. Select furniture so that it matches the fireplace in color and texture. We recommend paying attention to light warm colors. They will make the living room even more cozy. Don't underestimate the importance of small decorative details. After all, the space around the fireplace was literally created for them. An unusually shaped lattice, various photo frames, boxes and vases only decorate the room.
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.
What to look for when purchasing
To make the right choice when buying an electric fireplace for the living room, it is not enough just to decide on the design. You need to pay special attention to these parameters:
- Power. The degree of heating of the room depends on this. If the device will perform not only a decorative function, the power should be calculated based on the area of the room;
- Size. This is an important point, since its size determines its position and the arrangement of other furniture;
- Design. When choosing exterior decoration, you should be guided by the general stylistic direction of the room and apartment;
- The ability to adjust flame brightness and temperature is an added advantage;
- If possible, choose a model with an air humidification and aromatization system.
Follow these simple recommendations to choose a fireplace that will not only decorate and warm your living room, but also make the interior much more comfortable and harmonious.
Living room interior with fireplace in apartment
There is an opinion that only a classic fireplace can fill a room with comfort and a warming atmosphere. In fact, this is not the case at all, and even a small design in the form of a false fireplace helps you relax and take your mind off everyday problems and worries. The main thing is to decorate the interior correctly so that everything matches the same style and supports the overall concept of calm and relaxation.
According to the designers, an electric fireplace would also be appropriate in the interior of the living room of a simple apartment. It is better to give preference to the most compact and built-in models. They will perfectly complement the design and generally will not take up much space. In addition, you need to take care of the correct arrangement of furniture. After all, for a fireplace you need to free up as much free space as possible.
Fireplace in the living room in a private house
Undoubtedly, a private home is ideal for installing any type of fireplace. Especially if the room dimensions are large. To do this, they often combine the living room with the kitchen into a single spacious room. Mostly, a classic design is installed in it during the construction stage. This allows you to take into account all the nuances and requirements regarding security. Please note that the fireplace should never be located near curtains or any other fabric.
A room that combines a living room and a kitchen or dining room is an ideal place to install a fireplace with a live flame. Many additionally equip a barbecue area, which is very convenient during the cold season. But if such a design is unacceptable in your home, then take a closer look at a fireplace with an imitation of a living flame. They look perfect in a minimalist design.
In general, we can say that a living room in a large house is simply created for the implementation of interesting ideas for its design. We are talking not only about the basic set of furniture, but also about more interesting accents. For example, a coffee table can be made of unusual materials or in an original shape. Many people even prefer to do it themselves. You can use completely different objects as decoration. A small wooden shelf for books or family board games looks great above the fireplace. If desired, you can also place memorable photographs or interesting figures on it. The mirror above the fireplace looks especially beautiful. Also, large plants in pots or vases are always appropriate in the living room. They add a touch of freshness to the overall interior.
A small living room in an apartment or a spacious room in a private house will become warmer and more comfortable with a fireplace. And it doesn’t matter at all what it will be in appearance and price. After all, nothing contributes to good relaxation and rest more than the warmth of a home.
