Traditional and Contemporary Fireplace Design Ideas

A fireplace was originally used for warming during cold nights and seasons and for cooking. However, with time, it became more of a decoration than a necessity. A fireplace in a home brings out a modern and inviting look into your living room.  You will always find online collections of fireplace design ideas which showcase the best modern designs. Fireplace design ideas are made considering the needs of home owners whether it is for a big or small room, in a library or living room.
Here are some comparisons between traditional and contemporary fireplace designs:

• See-through fireplace – A double sided gas fireplace that vents through the chimney just like a wood-burning fireplace.
• Fire line – Designed with a steel casing that can be placed onto a wall whether flammable or nonflammable. It is easy to install, safe and does not require a gas installation or chimney.
• Traditional fireplaces were placed in the middle of a room so that more people could surround the fireplace, unlike the modern fireplace which is constructed inside a wall and warms the whole room.
• Traditional fireplaces were much smaller and lit more brightly. This was done to reduce the quantity of materials used and emphasizes on the quality of the fireplace.
• Many traditional fireplaces were made of the inset and surrounds which consisted of the mantel piece.
• Other traditional fireplace design ideas is using shallow fire box which was efficient at drawing smoke out of the building
• Reinforced concrete chimney – These are contemporary chimneys that are rarely used because of the flaws they have.

• Brick stone fireplace are very common because the materials can be used for the chimney and inset lining.
• The masonry fireplace was a traditional fireplace that used a large fire window which allowed for heating efficiency.
• Propane fireplaces are becoming more and more popular as homeowners become aware of pollution and energy conservation. They are mostly used during the cold winter seasons. They do not use firewood and burns very clean without leaving ash behind. Propane fireplaces are easy to manage by simply turning the knob and the flame is off.

You can never miss out on fireplace design ideas that will suit your home and personal taste. Fireplaces should be made with materials that do not conduct heat or easily catch fire. Some of the contemporary materials used to make a fireplace include marble, metal brick, stone and tiles. Traditional ones were mostly made of wood and stone. Different patterns and colors are used depending on the overall theme of the home. For more information, visit your favorite home improvement store and ask their fireplace specialist.