A brief history of fireplaces

In the eighteenth century, American fireplaces were simple and practical. They were plain with plain hearth extensions. Victorians moved to the cities with industrialization. With them evolved a modern, improved coal burning fireplaces. By the end of the century, gas replaced coal on the fireplaces.

Evolution of fireplaces

Fireplaces have evolved to a great extent over the centuries. From serving their basic function of providing warmth, they have come a long way. It is important to remember that the hearth, mantle and materials become the focal point of the room, regardless of the fireplace chosen.
A French fireplace style adds a classic touch to the room. This quality is largely due to the influence of King Louis XV, who preferred curved styles and intricate carvings. Symmetrical motifs of flowers, leaves and shells are characteristic of the French style.
Brick fireplaces are beautiful and easy to replace. They add a vintage feel to the room. Aging firebricks fireplaces can be painted to add color.
Kiva style fireplaces are best suited for southwestern styled homes. These fireplaces are curved and beehive shaped with separate openings for the flue and the fire. Modern day Kiva models use cinder blocks.
English fireplaces are known for their simplicity and practicality. English stone fireplaces are very much in use.
Victorian fireplaces largely reflect the styles of the Victorian age. There is a lot of emphasis on intricate detailing and ornate work in the Victorian fireplaces. They display opulence and wealth. They are made of cast iron, stone or wood and have a pointed inner arch. They also use porcelain as decoration. Cast iron is an integral part of Victorian age architecture.

Modern day fireplaces

There are a wide variety of options available today. The Adam Style Timber metal Surround is a traditional type fireplace. The panels are made from a variety of natural stones, marble and granite. Pitched face natural stone fireplace is mostly custom designed to suit personal requirements. It is made from natural walling stones such as Portland York. With emerging technologies such as sand casting, fireplace styles have evolved over the times. With the correct choice of fireplace style and material, it is possible to make the fireplace the focal point of the room.

Corner gas fireplace
Corner fireplaces can be styled to fit exactly into the corner of your room and can occupy as much or as little space as you would want them to. If the fuel that will be used is gas instead of traditional fuels like wood, then the corner gas...

Direct vent gas fireplace
When fireplaces were built in olden days, there had to be a foundation laid first before the fireplace was to be constructed. The chimney also had to be in place before a fireplace could be finally installed. Direct vent gas fireplaces have done...

Fireplace covers
A fireplace, whether located indoors or outdoors requires a cover. Fireplace covers are meant to keep away dust and other particles when the fireplace is not in use. During spring and summer, a fireplace can gather a lot of dirt which can become a...