Fireplace Design Options for Your New Home
It’s cold outside… but it’s warm and cozy by the fireplace in a new Heartland Builders home. There’s nothing better than curling up on the couch with a warm drink by the crackling fire — and that’s why we want you to decide what vibe your fireplace gives off. In this blog, we explore the hottest fireplace design trends for 2021, plus get tips from Heartland’s own designer, Jen Clements.
Let’s take a closer look at the three main elements of fireplace design: style, materials and function. This is definitely one area of your home that can be customized to a “T”!
Style
There are two main directions to consider when it comes to designing the hearth of your home, and that’s traditional and modern.
Traditional Design: Classic, comforting, and familiar, this traditional fireplace design will never go out of style, especially in a large living room that’s prime for gathering.
Modern Design: A fireplace is a timeless element of home decor, but why not update the look to be contemporary and sleek? Modern fireplace design creates the perfect bridge between “old and new” and is just as functional.
Materials
Once you’ve decided what style direction you’re headed in, the fun really begins. In the selection of materials, you can get as personal or innovative as you’d like. With the choice of stone, wood, brick, metal, glass, plaster or tile – or some combination of them – the ideas are endless. But don’t overthink it. Heartland Builders’ Interior Designer, Jen Clements, can point you in the right direction once she understands the concept you’re going for.
“Our customers lately are trending more modern – whether that’s with tighter stone looks, painted brick, or concrete faces. Even when they’re not sure how to pull a fireplace together- based on our conversations I will pull pictures and samples that they can’t go wrong with. It’s truly a collaborative process, and one of my favorite things to do in home design.”
When it comes to the mantle, while most fireplaces have that distinct shelf or framing, you certainly don’t have to go by the book. Today’s design choices include floating beam mantles, large architectural elements that rise to the ceiling, or for the ultimate nod to modernism, nothing at all.
“There’s an interesting juxtaposition happening with a beam mantle and concrete or tile face,” said Clements, “kind of rustic but with modern touches.”
Form & Function
While we know the primary function of a fireplace is to keep our toes toasty, there are several variations in how to accomplish that.
Traditional Gas Fireplace: Traditional gas fireplaces are safe, easy to operate and give off the cozy, home-y vibes you know and love without burning actual wood. With the simulated flame and ceramic logs, it looks and feels like hearths of yore.
Linear Fireplace: If you enjoy a modern look and feel, you’re going to love a linear fireplace. This gas-burning option is rectangular in shape and can be set flush in the wall at any height, which means you have more flexibility with placement. Simple and chic, this fireplace pairs well with any contemporary decor.
Of course, there is always the option to have a wood burning fireplace or wood burning stove. Electric fireplaces are becoming popular as well adding fun colors and pizazz with the flame.
At Heartland Builders, we’ve always believed in the power of a great fireplace… because nothing feels more like home than gathering around and enjoying quality time together. When you choose to build with us, the unique details of your home are entirely up to you — and we’re excited for you to choose the fireplace that fits your style best!
For more information about our custom, on-your-lot homes in Grand Rapids, please browse our completed homes and contact us at (616) 205-5430. We can’t wait to meet you and provide an experience that’s easy, fun, and fast(er than you think)!
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