8 Extraordinary Fireplaces Sparked by Ingenuity
Visually arresting shapes and unusual materials in lieu of traditional fireplace designs? Simply brilliant
Not all fireplaces are created equal. Oddly exhilarating, these innovative fireplaces serve as major interior design statements and are created to dazzle and impress both homeowners and professionals. Unexpected twists in materials and shapes turn up the heat on traditional fireplace designs — take a look and see if any inspire a new fireplace in your home.
Down low. This floor-level fireplace almost disappears visually. The artwork is the focal point, while the fireplace is a detail.
Tip: Paint or tile the interior of the firebox, and the opening will stand out rather than blend in.
Tip: Paint or tile the interior of the firebox, and the opening will stand out rather than blend in.
Rock. A huge boulder fire pit has a rustic feel but still makes a bold design statement.
Tip: An extra-large rock like this creates more places where guests can sit.
Tip: An extra-large rock like this creates more places where guests can sit.
Curvy. Go crazy and install a round door for drama. The brilliant heart wood that scoops underneath the door is the best part of the whole fireplace.
Tip: Install a hearth like this one upside down to create a mantel for extra pizzazz.
Tip: Install a hearth like this one upside down to create a mantel for extra pizzazz.
Mirrored. This theatrical performance of art nouveau–inspired mirror and copper had me staring in disbelief. What a showstopper!
Tip: Replace the standard mirror with a bronze or smoky version to reduce the heavy reflection.
Tip: Replace the standard mirror with a bronze or smoky version to reduce the heavy reflection.
Pishtaq. This Iranian motif feels at home with many house styles. The straight lines of the coffered wall paneling complement the arched design perfectly.
Tip: Make an interior of this style feel less rustic by exchanging the animals for art and adding jewel-toned paint and perforated chandeliers.
Tip: Make an interior of this style feel less rustic by exchanging the animals for art and adding jewel-toned paint and perforated chandeliers.
Fire as art. Instead of hanging art on the wall, put up a fireplace that has an amazing art-like quality. Something like this is bound to be pricey but will immediately catch the eye of whoever enters the room.
Tip: This fireplace is perfect for a second home that you don't stay in for too long. Just unplug it and head on out.
Tip: This fireplace is perfect for a second home that you don't stay in for too long. Just unplug it and head on out.
Glass. This entertainment unit is expertly balanced by the glass-surrounded fireplace for a pristine example of contemporary design.
Tip: Take the glass toward the ceiling even farther for greater design impact.
Tip: Take the glass toward the ceiling even farther for greater design impact.
Tip: Replace the firebox surround with a finish that has a touch of bling to boost the glam factor.