5 design ideas for fireplaces

We share five inspiring fireplace designs – from wood-burning to gas and traditional to trendy. Here are a few great ideas for fireplaces. 

Create contrast

Rather than being incorporated into the wall, this fireplace functions as a piece of free-standing furniture. The white surround makes a graphic contrast to the red brick walls and steel chimney.

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Incorporate storage space

This fireplace is an eye-catching feature in this modern living space. The large horizontal alcove not only houses a free-standing grate, but provides storage for wood as well. Another clever idea is the photograph on canvas which hides the TV screen when it’s not in use.

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Keep it simple

If you love a traditional style, but don’t want a look that’s too fussy, recess the fireplace and keep any embellishment to a minimum. Using a dark charcoal paint on the fireplace wall makes it a focal point and creates a good contrast to the warm blaze of these gas flames.

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Use gas as an alternative to wood or anthracite

In this home a gas fireplace in the lounge forms an integral part of the wall design which includes a recess for the flat screen TV and a shelf for displaying collectibles.

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Create a focal feature

Fireplaces should be functional as well as attractive, and the owners of this Houtbay house agree. The fireplace acts as a room-divider and to display artworks and ornaments and, although inspired by an Indonesian style, has a very African feel.

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