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Design Considerations for Your Fireplace

By: Kelly Vanderwalter If you are thinking of remodeling or are getting ready to build a new home, this is your chance to design your own fireplace. It's the centerpiece of your home, so why not take the opportunity to design it to your liking. There are lots of things to consider in the design, so make sure you take the time to get it right before you start construction.
The place to start on your fireplace design is the hearth. The hearth is both an aesthetic design decision as well as a practical one. Do you want the fire raised so it stands prominently in the room or do you want it at the floor level? If it is raised, you will have a platform to work from as you kindle your fire. If it is at floor level, make sure not too install th carpet too close!
The orientation and depth of the firebox is something which is often neglected. A larger firebox will give you the space to build larger fires. You might not want a full on bonfire in your fireplace, but the extra space lets your fire breathe and gives you room to work when you need to add wood or work with a poker. A smaller firebox has a more elegant look and works better for a gas fireplace; a smaller firebox pushes the heat out front.
The most prominent design feature of your fireplace is going to be the materials used to make the fireplace. The traditional choice here is a red brick with a white mantel on top. However, nowadays there are so many more options, you would be cheating your self not to consider some others. Keep the materials consistent with the other design elements in the house and you will have a fireplace that welcomes you everytime you enter the room.
Other than this basic component, you'll need to decide on the mantel and surrounds. You can paint your fireplace or install mounts for many different types of decorating schemes to make your fireplace something truly unique. So have fun with it and don't be afraid to try new things. If you get creative with your fireplace design ideas, you'll have the reward of a personalized fireplace for years to come.