From a Cozy Hearth to a Fabulous Working Masterpiece – Your Choice

The Niagara Region experiences frigid winters, making fireplaces a cherished feature in homes. Even though they are no longer the main heat source, many homeowners still appreciate having a wood or natural gas fireplace for added warmth and as a focal point in a room. Gathering around the fireplace with loved ones on a frosty day creates a charming and romantic atmosphere that many people appreciate. Consequently, fireplaces remain in high demand. The design of the fireplace façade (the design elements surrounding the unit) is a significant draw for the fireplace, often more so than the flames themselves. With this in mind, it’s important to understand that choosing the right fireplace unit is essential, but the design of the fireplace surround can significantly impact the overall look of a room. Many homeowners have looked at their existing fireplace and found it to be an eyesore. They might have even avoided the room solely because of the fireplace. It could be the unit’s style or shape that doesn’t fit the room, the surround that doesn’t match the homeowner’s taste or the fireplace not being properly positioned within the space. The good news is that most issues with an existing fireplace can be addressed. It’s important to consider building and safety codes, as they determine what modifications can be made and where they can be done. Enhancing a room, may start with adding a fireplace or giving an existing one and its surround a facelift. With the right choices, the room can be turned into a showstopper! A fireplace should reflect the unique style of the homeowner and the home. So, picking the fireplace unit is an important starting point. There are many fireplace units to choose from so whether you’re looking for gas, wood or electric, there are many to choose from and your supplier should be able to determine where and what type of unit you can put in your room.

• Gas fireplaces – These fireplaces can be customized to mimic the look of traditional wood fireplace with the safety of natural gas, or they can reflect a more modern take with glass beads instead of logs. There is no shortage of choices with gas fireplaces, from frameless fireplaces, stylish metal frames to ‘big’ flames and typical gas flames. These fireplaces can also be one or two sided and can be used both inside and out, allowing you to transition them from your interior space to your exterior one. 

• Wood stoves and inserts – There are options available for those who prefer a traditional wood fireplace insert or a wood stove. Nowadays, there are more choices to match both traditional and contemporary styles. Some of the more popular options provide a larger viewing area, which is particularly suitable for homes with large chimneys and spacious hearths. 

• Electric and ecofriendly fireplaces – There are an increasing number of options for electric and ecofriendly fireplaces, which may be a great alternative for some homeowners. These fireplaces can be both fashionable and functional and they come in charming or chic designs. Some options even include smart features, allowing you to control your fireplace with a voice command or integrate it with other smart devices to enhance your experience.

Form and function become harmonious when scale and design are balanced with the fireplace unit and the room itself. A fireplace design should complement a room, not overtake it, or get lost in it. Creating a captivating focal point with your fireplace depends on your style. Perhaps your idea of the perfect fireplace surround consists of a traditional fireplace unit with stone and a barn beam mantle for that cozy, romantic feel. Maybe you prefer a more elegant, polished presentation of natural stone tiles surrounded by an expansive millwork façade. You may even prefer a more chic style with a sleek fireplace unit and large-scaled tiles or stone slab surround, absent of a mantle entirely. One of the most popular designs today is to incorporate symmetrical millwork and cabinetry that flanks both sides of the fireplace. Family treasures, artwork, collections, photos, books, etc., also become part of this focal point. The design provides organization and makes the space clutter-free. The television is often positioned over the top of the fireplace. Keep in mind that a non-combustible mantle may be required for this type of arrangement, depending on the fireplace unit. But as homes and homeowners are unique, one design does not fit all. Your fireplace may be between windows, or in the corner of a room. It may be an expansive, majestic focal point of the room that draws your attention. Your fireplace may be an eye-catching work of art, not because of its size but by the creative placement or selection of natural stone with its own distinct perfect imperfections. A double-sided fireplace can not only heat two rooms but also offer connectivity of spaces and create an unparalleled ambiance. So, whether the style you are looking for is majestic, sleek, contemporary, modern minimalistic, understated elegance, rustic, charming, quaint, or intricate, a well-thought-out fireplace design can achieve it. When considering your design, keep an open mind to the numerous possibilities but understand that there may be limitations or considerations (e.g., building codes/safety codes, your room size, room location, house style and of course the size of your budget, etc.) But whether you are doing a ‘facelift’ to an existing fireplace or installing a new one, most importantly ensure that you are using licensed experienced professions – there are safety factors to consider!

If you are looking to renovate your home or build a custom home in the Niagara Region, call Vanderzalm Construction Inc. at (905)562-4463 or (905)684-5823. We look forward to building your dreams into reality.