Today, a fireplace rarely acts as a heating element, as was customary in the old days. Of course, it can make you warmer and more comfortable, but its main purpose in a private house or city apartment is decorative. The living room immediately acquires the features of luxury and nobility. Sitting by a heat source with a cup of coffee on winter evenings, or simply after a hard day at work, you can relax and not think about anything, or just watch TV.
The range of modern models includes a large number of all kinds of classic and original options. One of the most popular is a corner fireplace in the interior.
Types of fireplaces
Depending on the type of fuel, installation method, style and location, models come in different types: wood-burning, gas, electric, floor-mounted, wall-mounted, straight, corner, stone, timber. There are devices that don't even need a chimney. They do not emit harmful substances into the atmosphere, although they function on the principle of living fire.
Built-in options take up little space, but the space for them should be taken into account in advance when designing the interior so as not to disturb the structure of the walls. If you decide to install equipment after renovation, the best option is a wall-mounted fireplace. As for the exterior decoration, it can be made of stone, brick, and other materials.
In addition to the above, island and corner fireplaces are popular - they fit organically into the interior, becoming an integral part of it.
Function of a fireplace in the house
In the modern world, when everything in a home is adapted for comfortable living and there is no longer any need to invest in the preparation and delivery of firewood, the owners of city apartments and country houses still try to install a spectacular fireplace in their home that will delight them with the sight of a live fire.
Boho living room with corner fireplace
A fireplace decorated with stone is installed in the interior of a cozy living room
Of course, a living flame will help you relax and provide balance in your soul and comfortable living in your home. If you want to install a corner fireplace in a country house, then you won’t have any special problems. Of course, you will have to decide on a place for the fireplace, choose an experienced craftsman and design a heating structure. But for those living in high-rise buildings, installing a real wood-burning fireplace is a complex and practically impossible procedure. Let's say more, the installation of such a structure is prohibited by special services. In this case, the hearth can be successfully replaced with an electric fireplace, stylized as a real one. At the same time, an advantageous installation in the corner of the room will allow you not only to enjoy the bright flames, but also not to lose useful space.
A little earlier, when there was no widespread use of autonomous heating systems, the fireplace was used not only as a decorative piece of furniture, but also as a full-fledged source of heat. Today, when the function of raising the temperature is performed by special equipment, the hearth is used more to decorate the room. Although in the off-season it is able to heat a small home, and in winter it will help to quickly raise the temperature until more powerful appliances turn on.
A fireplace that many residents of country houses want to own
The fireplace is almost always considered the main interior component of the house.
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Design and benefits
The advantages of corner models are undeniable. The main one is significant savings in free space. Being in the corner, the fireplace does not disturb anyone, and at the same time fulfills all its practical and decorative functions in full. The chimney in this design is located in any of the walls.
By their design, corner fireplaces are very compact; they can be installed not only in a large living room, but also in rooms with a small area - for example, in a bedroom or in an office. Due to its location between two walls, this design also heats adjacent rooms, which is also very convenient and practical. Corner models can be symmetrical or asymmetrical.
Choosing an installation location
When placing a fireplace near the external walls, some heat loss occurs, because of this, experts advise making the room warmer, purchasing Euro-windows, insulating the room, especially on the north side, and generally protecting the home from temperature changes.
Important! The fireplace should not be located near stairs or in corridors, as safety issues may arise.
If possible, it is better to arrange furniture elements so that, while in the room, you can enjoy the fire. For this, for example, parallel placement is often used, when armchairs are placed opposite the sofa, and a small coffee table between them.
Furniture should be purchased in warm colors in order to further emphasize the pleasant atmosphere of the room.
Quite often, armchairs with a pouf or stylish rocking chairs are placed next to the fireplace for comfortable relaxation.
Important! Placing a TV above a fireplace violates safety regulations.
With a corner fireplace in the living room interior, for example, the chair can be placed sideways to it, and the fire will not interfere with watching TV.
The shelf above the fireplace can be decorated with various cute trinkets, figurines or decorative vases. Antique unusual watches, forged elements and family heirlooms are suitable. Family photos also look great on such a shelf.
Asymmetrical fireplaces
These models have a clearly rectangular shape and are mounted directly into the corner. Thus, space is saved and the fireplace fits clearly even into an interior where such equipment is not provided. The chimney can also be easily installed into an adjacent wall.
An asymmetrical fireplace is often used as a unique element for zoning a room. Much in the perception of the overall interior depends on the cladding and external design of the fireplace, but these are questions for professional designers. If you wish, you can look at the photo and choose the best option.
Types and properties
Depending on the type of fuel used, fireplaces are divided into:
- gas. They provide warmth that can be felt, and there is no soot. Cons – difficult to connect in an apartment, permission for installation is required;
- electric fireplaces. Convenient and easy to use, have a low cost, and when installing the structure you do not need to obtain permission;
- biofireplaces. Eco-friendly, ideal for decoration, but the cost of fuel (alcohol) is too high and unsafe;
- wood-burning An excellent option for private houses, since installation in an apartment poses difficulties.
The fireplace is also called the soul of the living room due to the fact that when an open fire burns in it, in addition to warmth, it can create a cozy atmosphere at home. Thanks to this, more and more owners are thinking about installing an elegant fireplace in the living room.
The corner fireplace in the interior is especially popular. It fits perfectly into the design if its placement is well thought out.
In addition, this option has advantages compared to frontal options:
- heats all adjacent rooms at the same time;
- has increased efficiency due to heat reflection from the walls;
- saves space due to angular placement and compactness;
- There are endless possibilities for realizing design ideas.
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Symmetrical fireplaces
Symmetrical models are recommended to be installed in rooms where saving space is not an issue. This option is mounted across the corner. From a design point of view, a corner symmetrical fireplace is better perceived visually, since the fire is visible from anywhere in the room. From a practical point of view, this option is also more acceptable, since a symmetrical fireplace copes with the heating function a little better, unlike other models.
A corner fireplace can be either natural or purely decorative, that is, it does not heat the home, but simply gives it a noble appearance. In this case, the home owner gets rid of the problem of installing a chimney, which significantly saves time and money.
Types of designs
There are various modifications of heat generators on sale. Despite the angular design of the fireplace, the hearth can be rectangular, square, semicircular and trapezoidal.
Asymmetrical
They are used when dividing a room into separate zones without violating the integrity of the space. Such fireplaces look unobtrusive and go well with the interior of large rooms. Depending on the structure of the hearth and the fuel used, the structures are divided into several types. They determine their energy efficiency.
Asymmetrical corner fireplace.
Symmetrical
With this design, 2 parts of the structure repeat each other. Fireplaces are suitable for different rooms and are characterized by improved performance properties.
Symmetrical corner fireplaces.
Stove-fireplace
The main function of a fireplace stove is to heat the room. Such models come in stone or metal. If you plan to use the structure for cooking, you should install a fireplace stove with a stove when a special hob is built into the equipment. In addition, there are options with an oven, or combined models. Of course, it is not recommended to install such stoves in the living room, even if there is a powerful hood, but for a large kitchen-dining room this option is quite suitable. Most modern fireplace stoves are small metal fireboxes. They have high heat transfer and are capable of heating a room up to 80-90 sq.m.
Exterior view of living room interior with fireplace
Placing such an interior element is possible only in a room whose area is at least twenty, or even twenty-five meters. It is important to consider that residents of city apartments can only install corner electric fireplaces in the interior.
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A modern fireplace can be decorated with any material you want: both decorative and natural materials are suitable.
As for the style of the apartment itself, you can decorate it in a classic, English or Scandinavian version. It is important that all the details match in style and do not deviate from the overall idea.
The room can be decorated in cold colors if you use the electric option, and if you live in a private house and can afford to install a corner fireplace in the living room, for example, a gas one, then you can give preference to interior decoration not only in cold shades, but also in warm ones . For example, country style would be an excellent option.
Where to install
Future fireplace owners often wonder: where is the best place to install a corner fireplace to make it beautiful and practical? The fireplace is installed on an internal or external wall. If you choose the first option, installation difficulties may arise due to the elevation of the chimney. In the second case, installation is less problematic, but requires prior approval from the relevant authorities.
Whatever fireplace option you choose (except for an electric fireplace), everything related to the presence of fire must be installed in accordance with fire safety requirements. Everything else is at the discretion of the owner. The only thing is that it is not recommended to install a fireplace opposite windows and entrance doors to avoid drafts.
If the fireplace fits tightly against the wall, take care to lay a heat-resistant layer at least 20 mm thick. Installation on a wooden floor also requires additional protection in the form of a metal sheet laid around the perimeter of the fireplace.
Design and placement
Corner fireplaces come in a variety of shapes, different models and finishing materials. Today they are installed in private homes and residential premises. They are technologically advanced and compact, which means they take up little space, making them an ideal option for living rooms.
Before starting work, it is better to decide on the style of the overall interior of the room, regardless of whether it is finished or just under construction. After all, adding a structure such as a fireplace is a great opportunity to completely change the design.
Therefore, in such a situation, the ideal option would be to plan the interior with a ready-made corner fireplace in the living room of a city apartment, as in the photo:
After choosing the place where the corner fireplace will be placed, its installation must be coordinated with the relevant authorities. After this, you can look for a master who can professionally turn your idea into reality.
Which corner fireplace to choose for the living room
In the living room, where there is usually enough space, it is recommended to install a luxurious symmetrical fireplace, next to which you can place a couple of beautiful armchairs and a table for drinking tea - why not a good idea? However, it is necessary to provide for temperature conditions, since there is nothing pleasant about experiencing heat rather than pleasant warmth while sitting by the fireplace.
When installing a fireplace in the living room, you should also take into account the overall style of the room. Classic looks ridiculous in combination with high-tech, just as Provence does not go well with pop art.
Brick firebox
In a country house, brick is most often used to make the firebox. This is the safest and most durable material with good heatability and high heat transfer. Even if there is severe frost outside the windows, the brick firebox heats up quickly and retains heat in the house for a long time.
Brick is quite resistant to external influences and temperature changes, so brick fireboxes are considered reliable and durable. It does not need to be cleaned as often as, for example, cast iron. High-quality heat-resistant (fireclay) material does not emit harmful substances into the atmosphere. Installing a brick firebox requires a good separate foundation, since such a fireplace is quite heavy. The average weight is 450-500 kg, and not every base can withstand such weight. The base is decorated with special fireproof materials - for example, marble tiles. It is unlikely that you will be able to lay out a brick firebox on your own, without special knowledge, so it is recommended to order the service of a qualified stove maker who will make a fireplace in accordance with all safety rules.
Metal firebox
Many people prefer durable cast iron fireboxes that can withstand ultra-high temperatures. Such a fireplace does not darken, does not fade over time, retains heat for a very long time, and is capable of heating large areas, which significantly saves the cost of its maintenance.
You can buy a metal firebox ready-made, or assemble it yourself, with the help of specialists. A cast iron fireplace has a lower price compared to a stone or brick one, which is also its advantage.
A cast iron firebox cannot be cooled suddenly. If you need to quickly cool down such a fireplace, do not pour ice water into it.
Style solutions and design
People spend a lot of time in the living room, so it should be cozy and beautiful. Corner fireplaces can be a good decorative accent, provided that their design matches the overall style of the room.
Classical
They are used in different interior styles of apartments and private houses. In most cases, such structures are decorated with heat-resistant red brick. The classic style has many subtypes.
If we talk about the English direction, it is characterized by:
- No fancy decoration.
- Brick or wood cladding.
- A small firebox with decorative elements.
- Natural color palette.
Modern
In a house decorated in Art Nouveau style, a corner fireplace with white trim will look beautiful. This option forgives many design flaws and combines well with other decorative elements.
When lining the heat generator, stone, wood, tiles, fire-resistant glass and cast iron elements are used. The Art Nouveau style is dominated by restrained lines and ornate decor.
High tech
In the high-tech style, a monochromatic color palette predominates:
- Black.
- White.
- Grey.
- Beige.
Metallic cladding will look no less stylish. At the same time, it is better to avoid bright and provocative shades.
The high-tech style is characterized by strict shapes and small dimensions.
Rustic
Rustic fireplaces embody the ancient archetype of the hearth.
Such structures perform a number of functions:
- They are the compositional center of the interior.
- Divide the room into functional zones.
- They heat the room.
In appearance, fireplaces resemble a Russian stove. The firebox has a rectangular or arched configuration and is decorated with stone or brick. There may be a firewood rack underneath, and the side sections sometimes smoothly turn into shelves.
With your own hands
If you have sufficient construction skills and understand the operating principles of stoves and other heating equipment, you can build a corner fireplace with your own hands. It’s difficult to say how much you’ll save on materials, but the work will definitely be free, unless, of course, you have to redo anything with the involvement of qualified specialists.
Before you begin installing a fireplace, it is important to draw up a preliminary project in all details and carefully plan all stages of the work. Do not forget to provide good draft, the correct place for the chimney, and the correct location of the fireplace itself. After installing the entire structure, it will be difficult to redo anything, especially if the fireplace is a built-in type.
Materials
Regardless of what type of fireplace you decide to go with, you will need a lot of materials to make it. First of all, you should take care of thorough waterproofing, which can be roofing felt or polyethylene. It is also necessary to stock up on a sufficient amount of sand, crushed stone, cement, clay, which will be useful for making mortar and other construction purposes. In the process of making a fireplace, you will need boards or metal sheets for formwork, mesh, and rods for concrete reinforcement.
For the direct manufacture of the fireplace and chimney, materials are used, depending on the type of heating equipment. This can be brick (simple and fireproof), metal parts, etc.
Preparation and front rows
First of all, you should take care of the foundation, which should be larger than the base of the fireplace itself. To create a foundation, dig a pit, then compact the hole well and pour wet sand into it. Crushed stone is poured on top and a mesh tied with wire is installed.
The next stage is to protect the walls from overheating using special asbestos strips. After this, the formwork should be installed and all other procedures for pouring the foundation should be completed. After making the base, you should take a technological break of 18-20 days.
As for the procedures for laying a fireplace, there are two of them in the corner version, and one model is easier to install, the other is more difficult. A lot depends on laying the first row, since any mistake can have a negative impact on all other stages of work. The first row sets the overall dimensions of the entire fireplace, so the thickness of the seams must be maintained with maximum precision.
Firebox
In order for the fireplace not only to serve as a decoration for the room, but also to give off maximum heat, you need to lay out the firebox correctly. In this case, its walls should be located at a certain angle to each other - the side walls are slightly turned outward, and the back one is tilted forward.
The volume of the fireplace insert should be 1/50 of the total size of the room. It is also important to consider the depth, which must be correct. If the firebox is too deep, the fireplace will not heat up enough and the room will be cold. If, on the contrary, the depth is shallow, smoke may occur.
The firebox can be closed or open, and can be solid or combined. To calculate the correct dimensions of the combustion window, the area of the room should be divided by 50.
Pass
To ensure that sparks do not fly out of the chimney and that air changes do not occur, a special threshold, or pass, is installed between the firebox and the smoke chamber. It can be either tray-shaped or even. The pass should not make the pipe narrower.
Arch and chimney outlet
An arch represents the ceiling of a portal; it can be semicircular, arched, or straight. You can buy a chimney ready-made, but such options are usually expensive, so it’s easier to make it yourself from metal or brick. The walls through which the chimney outlet passes must be insulated as much as possible with asbestos material, and the interfloor ceilings should also be protected.
You should not use the same chimney for different heating structures; for a fireplace it must be completely autonomous. The correct chimney height is at least 5 m, if not more. It all depends on the height of the floors of the room. The chimney is made of fire-resistant material. The brick version can be lined with a steel pipe. The optimal shape for a chimney is a cylinder. The fewer obstacles there are to the passage of smoke, the less soot will form on the walls.
Finishing
The final step in the complex process of installing a fireplace is the finishing process. Here, a lot depends on the existing style, as well as the personal tastes of the owners. The finishing is made of decorative materials, ceramics, stone, marble. For example, the fireplace itself and the chimney can be trimmed with stone, and the upper fireplace part can be covered with decorative plaster.
Before you start decorating, you should coat the surface of the fireplace with a strengthening primer. To the brick surfaces to be finished with stone, it is necessary to attach a welded mesh with 10x10 mm cells using self-tapping screws. If necessary, the top of the fireplace is leveled with gypsum plaster. To strengthen the surface, a fiberglass mesh with a cell size of 5x5 mm is used.
Budget decor involves making a special box from plasterboard with subsequent cladding.
External cladding can be very diverse, both in texture and color. Plaster is applied to previously prepared samples of decorative materials, after which tiles are laid on the floor area around the fireplace. The following work on finishing the fireplace is carried out no earlier than two days later.
Corner fireplaces and their uniqueness
Of all the types of fireplace designs, the corner one is considered one of the most relevant. Corner wood-burning fireplaces for the home are most often installed in a corner that is not used. This solution is not entirely profitable, since the heat will be distributed to adjacent empty rooms. Placing it near external surfaces can lead to loss of necessary heat, because the fireplace will heat the street directly, and not the interior.
It is for these reasons that the most acceptable installation method is between blank walls adjacent to each other. This ensures proper circulation of warm air masses and thermal efficiency.
The advantages of a do-it-yourself brick fireplace are:
- attractive design;
- many ways to decorate the surface;
- the ability to combine the element with various design concepts;
- significant savings in living space and heating costs for a private home;
- availability. You can build a fireplace with your own hands.
Subject to fire safety, construction and operating conditions, corner fireplaces can become a luxurious highlight of the cottage, part of its home comfort.
