The idea of making a fireplace in the kitchen is original and new. Especially if this room is large, a live fireplace in it will be appropriate - it will create the mood, and food cooked in a good mood will taste better. An interior with a fireplace will be literally warm, even if the fireplace is electric.
Original firebox arrangement
Functions of a fireplace in the kitchen
A fireplace in the classical sense, with natural flames and the use of wood, is not a cheap pleasure. If you need an inexpensive fireplace, you can purchase, for example, an electric one. In any case, before installation, you need to understand what it is intended for. Either it will carry a decorative load, or it will be used for its intended purpose - to heat the room.
Functionality
A high-quality wood-burning fireplace provides enormous heat output. A fireplace can be the main type of heating for a country house, as it was with our ancestors. Currently, in addition to the fireplace in the house, and especially in the apartment, the main heating is radiators or heated floors. In this case, the fireplace will be an additional source of heat, for example, during the cold season.
Wood burning fireplace in the kitchen
Decor
A fireplace structure is not only a source of heat. Sometimes it can become the central part of the interior, the accent of the room. Moreover, the larger the fireplace design, the more reliable and interesting it looks.
If the kitchen-living room has a false wall to zone the room, then it can be used as a potential place to install a fireplace. Then the decorative fireplace can be either open on all sides (panoramic) or closed, with walls on one, two or three sides.
The fireplace can “fit” into any interior. It can be decorated with stone, brick, marble, mosaic - it all depends on desire and capabilities. But fireplaces are divided not only by size - there are a lot of parameters. Let's look at them in more detail.
Electric fireplace in the kitchen-living room as decor
Original models
Of course, these include three-sided fireplaces. Especially if the design does not include glass. Then it seems like magic is happening right before your eyes. There is another plus: when the fireplace is turned off, the living room and kitchen are perceived as a single space. Find the rating of sofa manufacturers on our flat house website.
Such a fireplace can be safely installed in the center of the room. There will be a reference to the hearth that our ancestors maintained. Only in this case will the allegory acquire a deeper meaning. Fireplace as a symbol of the family hearth.
By the way, double-sided fireplaces are also different. Not only parallel, but also two perpendicular walls can be transparent. This is convenient when there is a large sofa and several armchairs in the living room area.
The original models also include very tiny fireplaces that will fit into the kitchen and living room of any size. This is a case where size doesn't matter. Even the smallest fireplace will dramatically change the atmosphere in the room.
The fireplace can become part of the kitchen island. You just need to use reliable heat-resistant material. Another original way to install a fireplace is to use the space of the stairs. Under it you can organize an unusual firewood shed.
Comfort and warmth to your homes! You can study fashionable sliding wardrobes 2022 in the hallway in our other article on the site.
Types of fireplaces for the kitchen
Not every fireplace is suitable for the kitchen. If the kitchen-living room is located in a private house and there is an opportunity to stock up on wood , then a wood-burning fireplace will be preferable. The smell of firewood and coals, cozy crackling, the real warmth of fire, and the infinity of thoughts - this is what is valuable in such fireplaces.
Wood burning fireplace
A fireplace in the classical sense is one that is lit with wood. It is considered the most valuable, although a large number of nuances must be taken into account when using and constructing it. More heat is generated from such fireplaces. The crackle of wood, sparks, flickering of dying embers, smoke and the smell of a fire are guaranteed... This cannot be replaced by electric fireplaces and other devices.
If everything is very clear about the advantages of a large wood-burning fireplace, then it has a number of disadvantages. Firstly, its price. Building a fireplace is not a cheap undertaking, because it requires knowledge and professionalism. Secondly, its dimensions are not suitable for a small kitchen-living room. A real wood burning fireplace that produces good heat - quite large in size.
The main difficulty in installing a wood-burning fireplace is following the rules for its installation. After all, the strength and stability of traction is an important aspect of the function of a structure. This is the future safety of homeowners: the better the fireplace with chimney is built, the more correct the circulation of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the room will be.
Corner wood-burning fireplace in the kitchen-living room
Gas fireplace
The main difference between a wood-burning fireplace and a gas fireplace is the fire source. In order to create a fire, gas is supplied to the gas fireplace through a gas pipeline or from a cylinder. In general, such a fireplace is practically no different from a wood-burning one. Thanks to gas, fire can be started faster, while the structure itself will operate silently.
Another advantage of a gas fireplace over a wood fireplace is ease of operation. You just have to turn it on with one movement of your finger, and the fire is already before your eyes. Another nice plus is the cost of a gas fireplace, including maintenance costs. Natural gas costs less than wood. It’s another matter if you have free access to the forest. However, collecting firewood in the forest requires strength, time, and skill. Which can also be attributed to costs.
Among the disadvantages of a gas fireplace is that your apartment or house must be gasified. Otherwise, you will have to use heavy gas cylinders, which is not very convenient.
Gas fireplace in the kitchen-living room
Electric fireplace
An alternative to a wood or gas fireplace is an electric fireplace. It is purchased for installation in apartments when it is not possible to make a pipe and start a real fire. Currently, electric fireplaces are purchased by customers with great pleasure. There is no dirt from them, like from firewood, as well as soot and chimneys. And its construction will not take much time and money.
An electric fireplace is a godsend for those who live in an apartment. It operates from the mains, does not create an open fire, so it does not require a chimney. This is a nice plus. And the desired temperature is set according to individual desire, while the air heating rate is quite high. Other advantages include ease of installation and low price. But there is no main thing here - a living fire with the smell of burning logs.
In electric fireplaces, silk, blown by air currents, can be used as “flames”. And the desired shade of fire is achieved by illumination. An electric fireplace can also have an air heating function to make it warm and comfortable. They are completely fireproof: no need to worry about burns, fires, or the safety of children.
An electric fireplace can be an additional source of heat. With a built-in heating function, it can heat a small room of up to 20 sq.m.
Currently, the longest serial electric fireplace reaches 2.5 meters in length.
Electric fireplace in the kitchen-living room
Biofireplace
Modern technologies make it possible to create unique things. Now biofireplaces are on a par with wood-burning, gas and electric fireplaces. Their peculiarity lies in the use of an environmentally friendly substance - bioethanol (this is a multi-purified alcohol). This fuel is obtained by processing plant materials, so during combustion there is no evaporation of harmful vapors and elements. Also, from such a fireplace there will be no dirt: soot, ash, soot. That is why they are called eco-fireplaces .
Regular room air is used to support combustion. In such fireplaces, a chimney is not needed at all, because all the heat generated during combustion is given to the room. They will not be able to warm up the air temperature of the entire kitchen on their own, so biofireplaces are most often used as an additional heating element to the main heating.
Biofireplace in the kitchen
They are made more accurately in size (even quite small), so for a kitchen in an apartment they are just a godsend. Moreover, the fireplace produces natural flames . Be careful - you can get burned!
Biofireplaces perfectly complement the interior in high-tech or modern style.
Electric fireplaces, Biofireplaces. Electric fireplace in the interior. Video
Safety precautions
An electric fireplace is many times safer than a traditional, real one. But, as when handling any electrical equipment, certain rules must be followed:
- the wiring and sockets in the house must be in good working order;
- electrical wiring must be designed for the maximum power of the fireplace with a margin of 20%;
- do not leave the device turned on unattended;
- Do not block the openings through which warm air escapes to prevent overheating.
It is better to consider models with additional options for protection against overheating and protection against burns: they are the safest. Especially if there are small children in the house.
Fireplace shapes
The shape of the fireplace for the kitchen is chosen to suit the taste of the owner, taking into account price, installation location, room area, design, interior style and many other indicators. If a few decades ago there was practically no choice, now a wide range of different forms is available.
Rectangular fireplace. Classic
It is a classic representation of a fireplace structure. Most often, such fireplaces are located along one wall, recessed into it or protruding. Note that rectangular wood-burning fireplaces are large in size, while rectangular electric fireplaces will be much more compact.
Rectangular fireplace in the kitchen
Round fireplace
Based on their shape, round fireplaces are designed to be installed in the center of the kitchen-living room. In this case, it is suspended from the ceiling, or stands on its own foundation. A round fireplace can be with a closed door or open - all according to individual wishes.
Round fireplace in the apartment kitchen
Triangular fireplace
We are used to fantasizing, and manufacturers are ready to fulfill our every desire. Triangular fireplaces are designed for installation not only in the corner of the kitchen or cottage. Moreover, the angle can be both internal and external. This could be an island in the center of the kitchen-dining room. The fireplace can also be built into a false wall. The interior acquires a special zest, charm, and original style.
Since triangular fireplaces can be installed in the corner of the room, even a small apartment kitchen or studio kitchen will do.
Triangular fireplace in the kitchen
Fireplace of original shape
A fireplace can become a work of art if it is custom-made. With the effect of floating in the air, a fireplace chimney, geometric shapes, multifaceted, spherical... The finishing can be different: from classic to complex, mosaic, with forged fences. If you are willing to pay more, use your imagination.
Fireplace of original shape in the kitchen-living room
Installation recommendations
What should you consider when installing a fireplace? Let's figure it out:
- Choose a location closer to an existing chimney . This will save both time and material costs;
- Choose a design depending on how many rooms need to be heated . The wall and built-in ones will cope with heating two rooms, the corner one - three;
The built-in option will warm up not only the kitchen, but also the adjacent room
- Choose a place that is clearly visible . After all, a fireplace is also a decorative element of the interior;
- Do not install along an outside wall . Firstly, part of the energy will then be spent on heating the street, and secondly, condensation will form on the chimney;
- The kitchen area must be at least 12 m2 . Otherwise, it will not be possible to ensure the required air flow to the fireplace. It is also necessary to have at least one door and one window;
Fireplaces are only suitable for spacious kitchens or studio kitchens
- Do not install in a protruding corner , as this will lead to the loss of a large amount of usable space.
By firebox type
Initially, it may seem that choosing a fireplace is simple. Firewood or gas, electric or bio. However, the longer you start to understand this issue, the more varieties of fireplaces you come across. Fireplaces also vary in firebox type.
Open firebox
From the name it is clear that the flame is not hidden or fenced in anything. An open fireplace absorbs large amounts of oxygen. Moreover, the larger the fireplace, the more air it absorbs. Such fireplaces only add beauty to the kitchen without heating the room 100%. The main heat goes into the chimney, but the main advantage of an open structure is the brightness of the flame, which is “fed” by the oxygen in the room.
Wood burning fireplace with open hearth
Closed firebox
If you are a supporter of safety and cleanliness, your option is a closed firebox. These fireplaces are more energy efficient. Due to the fact that the fire is closed with a door made of tempered glass, neither flying sparks nor the remains of coals are dangerous. In this case, the room will heat up better than with an open fireplace.
There are models of combined fireplaces on the market, where the door can be completely removed, turning the fireplace into an open type.
Fireplace with closed firebox
Fireplace installation location in the kitchen
The placement of a fireplace in the kitchen can be different. This will depend on the number of walls, the size of the room and even its shape.
Wall fireplaces
The classic location of the fireplace is along the wall. In this case, it is better to choose a wall not adjacent to the street, but to the adjacent room. This way the adjacent room will be heated, not the street. A wall-mounted fireplace can be installed in a kitchen with a finished renovation. There will be no difficulties in installation.
Most often, wall-mounted fireplaces are large, so this option is not suitable for a small kitchen.
Wall fireplace in the kitchen
Corner fireplaces
The design of a kitchen with a fireplace will depend on many indicators and characteristics of the room. Taking a corner with a fireplace is not a bad idea at all. This is true in small rooms when it is not possible to place a fireplace along the wall. A triangular fireplace will be installed in the corner, and the corner can be not only internal, but also external.
Corner fireplace in the house
Island fireplaces
In the spacious kitchen-living room you can install any type of fireplace, including an island one. At the same time, it will heat the entire room as much as possible, and also serve as an accent of the interior. The more luxurious the fireplace is (and it’s not the price, but the decor), the more interesting your interior looks. Also, the fireplace in the center of the kitchen-living room will play a zoning role: a place for dining separate from the cooking area.
Island fireplaces may not have walls, that is, they have a panoramic firebox. In this case, the flames are visible from all sides.
Island fireplace in the kitchen-living room
Built-in fireplaces
You can build a fireplace into any wall, as well as into a false wall, built, for example, in the center of the kitchen. Such electric fireplaces are installed in small rooms. In this case, the length of the fireplace can be any.
Built-in fireplaces in the kitchen should be planned well in advance of the renovation project. In the case of a complete renovation, you will have to break down the wall, which will bring great inconvenience, dirt, and dust.
Fireplace built into the wall
Hanging fireplaces
No, this is not a joke or a typo. Now fireplaces can not only be installed against a wall or in a corner, but also hung. At the same time, you yourself determine the installation location of the hanging fireplace: hanging in the center of the kitchen-living room or against one of the walls of the room.
Despite the fact that hanging fireplaces (not necessarily round) do not rest on the floor, they can be wood-burning. Most often, such fireplaces are made to order, and the length of the chimney, which has a small diameter, can reach 10 meters in length.
Hanging fireplace in the kitchen-living room
What is the best room layout?
Already at the very initial stages of interior planning, it is worth remembering that the fireplace will be the central element of the relaxation area in the combined kitchen-living room. Around it it is necessary to provide a composition of upholstered furniture - L, U - shaped or parallel to the hearth , located in such a way that you can admire the flame from any point.
It is better not to clutter up the wall next to which the firebox will be located with many details, so that the fireplace does not get lost against the background of numerous shelves, cabinets, paintings and souvenirs.
It is also worth taking care of the stylistic correspondence between the fireplace and the kitchen-living room: if the room implies a classic interior, then an egg-shaped structure in an industrial style will be at least inappropriate.
Stove-fireplace
Another type of fireplace that can be installed in the kitchen of a private house or apartment is a fireplace stove. Being small in size, such a structure can be installed against a wall, as well as in the center of the kitchen. This “baby” is capable of heating a room much faster than its counterparts. As soon as the wood starts burning, the entire room will be filled with heat. At the same time, the fireplace stove can retain heat for a long time - up to 24 hours.
The fireplace stove may have an additional hob made of cast iron. Such a fireplace is lit with wood, and the firebox is of a closed or open type.
Stove-fireplace in the apartment kitchen
Dining room
The main advantage of a large house is the ability to combine the kitchen with the dining room. A separate room for eating is a luxury for owners of small apartments, but commonplace for owners of a private house. The work area and eating area should be separated from each other. You can zone the space either with the help of partitions, or with the help of separate lighting for each zone, or through the correct arrangement of furniture.
Above the dining table, surrounded by chairs, you can hang a floor lamp, which will create coziness during an evening dinner. You can also raise the work area by making the floors in it a few centimeters higher than in the rest of the room. The design of the kitchen and living room dining room should be made in the same style.
Kitchen styles with fireplace
Creating a modern kitchen in a certain style is a fundamental issue for many. Fireplaces are suitable for rooms of different styles. The main ones:
- Country style – it is characterized by fireplaces in the shape of the letter “D” and the presence of a large wooden beam above the portal. The chimney is most often covered with plasterboard.
Fireplace in a country style kitchen - High-tech style – it is characterized by fireplaces according to the latest trends and new technologies. The shape of such fireplaces can be any - from classical to cosmic.
Round fireplace in a high-tech kitchen - Art Nouveau style – it is characterized by fireplaces in a mixed classical and modern design. The lines are smoother. But behind all the beauty, inappropriate functionality can be hidden, because beauty is sometimes achieved at the expense of the fireplace’s intended purpose.
Biofireplace in a modern style kitchen
Advantages and disadvantages of fireplaces in the kitchen
We are accustomed to thinking that a fireplace in the house is a luxury. But manufacturers offer different types: from compact, inexpensive, without natural fire, to luxurious, voluminous, using real firewood. From here follow the pros and cons of the fireplace.
Advantages:
- psychological relaxation while watching the play of fire;
- additional (or main) heating in the house;
- comfort and beauty, created for your own kitchen interior;
- electric fireplaces with a steam generator (simulating smoke from a fire) additionally humidify the room air;
- different prices allow you to choose a fireplace according to your wallet;
- certain types of fireplaces can be installed in the kitchen of an apartment, even a small one.
Fireplace in the kitchen-living room
Disadvantages:
- Fire hazard when igniting with wood. At any moment, an ember may fly out of the fire and cause a fire or ignition. This mainly applies to fireplaces with an open firebox. In this case, the floors in front of the fireplace must have non-combustible material: ceramics, stone, brick. The use of wood or polymer coating is strictly prohibited. In any case, it is recommended to keep a fire extinguisher near the fireplace.
- A fireplace with natural fire is always dirty (ash, soot, soot). Therefore, you will have to clean the kitchen more often and more thoroughly. It is also necessary to periodically clean the chimney, ash pan, and fireplace from the inside.
- Incomplete combustion of wood in the fireplace creates an accumulation of carbon monoxide, which is dangerous to the body. Therefore, it is recommended not to close the damper until the coals have completely burned out. We should always remember this, because the main thing is our health.
- The high cost of wood-burning fireplaces, as well as certain types of electric and bio-fireplaces.
Electric fireplace in the kitchen-living room
Gone are the days when fireplaces were installed only in private homes. Nowadays, a fireplace in the interior, in addition to the kitchen, can be found everywhere: in offices, restaurants, apartments and even on a ship. Now, when you come home after a hard day at work, you can only press the button on the control panel and enjoy the flame, which will calm you down and relieve stress.
