Everyone has the same idea of what a fireplace looks like: a square masonry firebox with a mantel above. However, with the many different types of fireplaces available, and all the styles you can find, that's not the only option. You can easily find traditional looking fireplaces that operate off of any type of fuel. There are also contemporary styled versions, and most are available in different colors and finishes. This makes it easy to get a fireplace that matches your décor. Here's some information to help you come up with great fireplace design ideas.
Hearths
The hearth is one of the most visible parts of your fireplace, and there are a lot of options for it. You can have a hearth that's even with the floor, raised about, or even sunken into the floor. Some fireplaces don't even have a hearth. In general, which ever hearth style you choose, make sure that the firebox is mounted at least two inches above the floor. Some fireboxes can be mounted lower, however. In cases where there is no hearth at all, a high firebox is particularly important, to protect your floors from the fire's heat.
Fireboxes
This is possibly the single most important part of the fireplace – where the fire goes. There are some variations on fireboxes, mostly by size, material, and height relative to the hearth or floor. You can get the traditional raised firebox, specialty ones that are flush with the floor, and dropped fireboxes that are recessed below the floor. Non raised fireboxes may require precautions to reduce the risk of fire.
Fireplace Openings
Rectangular fireplace openings are the most common. They're usually not a true rectangle, since the sides flare from the firebox to the fireplace front. There are also fireplace openings with arched tops, ones built in corners, U shaped fireplaces and fireplaces built of one continuous curve. The latter are common in Southwestern style buildings. Some fireplace openings produce better heating, especially if you're burning wood. The U shaped and corner fireplaces have more exposure, allowing more heat to radiate into the room. However, they can also pull more air out of the room if there's a draft up the chimney.
Fireplace Inserts
If you're using an insert, you have a number of different options for fireplace design ideas. Inserts are usually metal, but can be finished in a number of different ways, including dull cast iron, shiny brass, and even chrome. They often offer insulated glass doors, so you can see the fire without having to worry about drafts. This improves heating efficiency. Depending on the model, fireplace inserts can be found in modern, classic, and more unusual styles. Decide what will go best with the room where you're installing your fireplace.
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