Creating a Cozy Alcove with a Corner Fireplace
In the olden days, fireplaces were a common sight in people's homes. Warming
the air and people's hearts, a fireplace was usually built together with the
house, included in the plans from the beginning. Then, times changed and new
ways to heat the home came into use, causing the hearth to be forgotten. Houses
also became smaller in size and building a fireplace would have meant a waste of
space. It wasn't long, however, before people started feeling nostalgic about
the sight of the embers glowing on cold winter nights, casting long shadows in
the room. But is that worth sacrificing so much space in the middle of your
room? Well, who says the fireplace has to go in the middle? Corner fireplaces
are often a much better solution.
So Many Reasons Why
There are several reasons you might opt for a corner fireplace. The most
obvious one is that a corner fireplace doesn't take up such a large area of the
room. When you install a fireplace, you'll want to have seats around it too, so
that you and your family or guests can enjoy it better. Placing the fireplace in
the corner gives you more freedom in the arrangement of the furniture. Another
good reason for opting for a corner fireplace is that it can make an otherwise
inconspicuous corner much more visible and attractive. Add to this the original
touch it will give to your room, and you might consider a corner fireplace even
if space does allow you to choose a centrally positioned one as well. A corner
fireplace simply makes everything less square.
Decorating the Corner
Though no longer physically central, a corner fireplace can still be the
heart of your room. You can use the mantelpiece for displaying your favorite
photos or collectibles. Since a corner fireplace is in the corner, you can
arrange your knickknacks and collectibles in a "V" array -- just let your
imagination go.
Choosing a Fireplace
There are many companies that build fireplaces according to their customers'
specifications. Before you decide on a model, it's a good idea to check the
designs displayed in online catalogs and at these manufacturers' stores. That
way, you can be sure to choose the fireplace that best complements your room and
its furnishings. |