For many people, fireproofing a house is only something they think about when the need arises – such as when building an extension, converting a loft or garage, or making some home upgrades. Safety aside, building regulations also have much to say on the matter, meaning that if you want to ensure the work you are carrying out on your home complies, you will need to implement certain fire proofing measures.

It isn't just those building new structures or converting parts of their homes into habitable spaces that should pay attention to fireproofing, though – there is plenty homeowners of older properties can do to safeguard both themselves, and their houses.

In this guide, the experts take you through everything you need to know to ensure your home not only complies with all the relevant rules and regulations, but also that it is a safe place to live.

What do the building regulations say about fireproofing a home?

Part B of the building regulations relates to fire safety and details everything anyone making upgrades and changes to their home, as well as building from scratch, needs to know.

Advanced fire risk assessor and approved validator Liam Trott, from Fire Safety & Compliance, explains more. "Fireproofing homes, generally involves two areas with slightly different terms and meanings. In simplified terms, the first is fire resistant construction in areas such as walls, floors, ceilings and even cavities or voids.

"The second is fire classifications, which is about surface spread of flame. Think of construction as stopping the fire passing through the wall to another room or area, and fire classifications as stopping the fire burning on the surface of a wall, like wallpaper on a brick wall – the brick won't burn, but the paper will," he explains.

"The building regulations 2010 expect that these elements are considered as appropriate for each area, based essentially, on life safety risk. For example, what would be expected for a two-storey detached house, will be very different to a four-storey terraced house," continues Liam.

"A two-storey house likely relies on your ability to escape via a bedroom window, with minimal injury risk to the occupant, so fire resistance is less of a worry. However, for a four-storey house, escaping via a window on the top floor would be too dangerous and would likely result in a serious injury or even death from the fall, so the internal route must be suitable so those present can escape.

"This is where adding fire protection becomes essential," he warns. "Beyond escape, the regulations also expect that there is no undue risk to firefighters, or neighbouring properties.

"The building regulations have changed significantly over the years, and there is no requirement to bring an existing building up to a modern standard in line with the building regulations, unless the regulations are triggered due to a renovation which constituted a change of use – known as a 'material change' – or an alteration that may impact life safety, known as a 'material alteration'," adds Liam.

"If you are carrying out works on your home and are unsure if it constitutes a material change or material alteration, you should contact building control at your local authority."

Why might you need to think about fireproofing your house?

There are certain home improvements and alterations that trigger the requirement for fireproofing measures to be put into place. If you are carrying out any of the following projects, you will need to comply with Part B of the regs.

• An extension: "Any house extension is a material change and, as such, the building must comply with the building regulations 2010 for many aspects, not just fire safety. In terms of fire safety these are B1-B5 of the building regulations," says Liam Trott.
• Loft conversion: "The most common loft conversion fire regulation requirements are FD30 fire doors on escape routes, intumescent seals and smoke seals, escape windows at minimum sizes, fire-rated insulation and mains powered interlinked smoke alarms," explains Angelo Patrizi, founder of Nuova Home Improvements.
• Garage conversion: Garage conversion building regulations relating to fire state that if your garage is attached to the house, 30 minutes of fire separation will need to be put into place using fire-resistant walls, as well as a self-closing fire door. You will also need to install smoke alarms, linked to your existing system. Additionally, if the room is a bedroom, an escape window meeting minimum size requirements will be needed.

Even if you are not building an extension or creating a new habitable space within your home, there are lots of steps you can take to make your home more fire safe.

"There are so many things people can do in their own homes to improve life safety and help improve their chances of survival – the sky really is the limit. What tends to be the constraint is budget," says Liam Trott.

"Every home would be safer with a full sprinkler system, however not every homeowner can afford to install sprinklers. However, there are lots of other things people can do that are either completely free, or relatively inexpensive, improvements."

With that in mind, here are the top expert-approved ways to improve the fire safety of your home.

How to fireproof

1. Install fire doors

Never underestimate the power fire doors have in keeping a household safe in the event of a fire – in fact, even if they are not a requirement of the building regulations in your home, they are well worth considering.

"Fire doors are a critical life safety device which have saved countless lives all over the world – I would advise every homeowner to consider the benefit of going above the minimum expected and installing fire doors in their homes as a standard practice," says Liam Trott.

"From a building regulations perspective, there are many reasons why fire doors may be required. In general terms, where escaping through a window is no longer an option and there is only one way out, or where a considerable risk is present, such as a garage, fire resistant separation would be expected as a way to mitigate the additional risk to life," continues Liam. "This will usually involve walls, ceilings, floors and doors along with firestopping and potentially cavity protection too.

"A common scenario that catches a lot of homeowners out is loft conversions, where a new floor is being added to a building, at a height where window escape isn’t realistic anymore," adds Liam.

"The most common way this is resolved is by establishing what is known as a 'protected route' from the top floor to the front door. This would mean all walls, ceilings, floors and doors within that stair core from the loft to the front door are of fire resistant construction."

2. Fit smoke detectors

While those living in older houses might not have to meet the same building regulations criteria as those making material changes and amendments, or building a new house, homeowners should still have at least one smoke alarm on every storey of their home for safety purposes.

"If you do not have smoke detectors in your home, adding these will make a significant difference to your ability to escape a fire," explains Liam Trott. "Simple battery detectors can be purchased from most hardware stores.

"It is worth noting that your local fire and rescue service may install them for free if you meet their criteria, which for some services is households with children under 16, or homes with vulnerable persons, such as the elderly or people with disabilities," advises Liam. "Bear in mind that battery-only smoke detectors would likely not be sufficient if the building regulations apply, such as when self-building.

"Test your smoke alarms regularly – a simple button push once a month to make sure it works is enough in most homes," adds Liam. "Working smoke detectors provide you with the early warning when it counts the most."

Shop smoke detectors

3. Keep escape routes clear

This is a simple step that really could make all the difference in the event of an outbreak of fire.

"Keep your escape routes clear and don’t store anything on your stairs, the landings, or corridors," says Liam Trott. "The less that is there to burn, the more chance you have of being able to use the stairs to get out.

"Additionally, keeping routes clear reduces the risk of falls. Think about how much your eyes sting and your throat stings when you get a bit of smoke from a campfire in your face. Now imagine that's your experience through an escape route – you will be disorientated, so make the route safe," he advises.

4. Close all doors before going to bed

Not everyone realises how much simply closing doors can help prevent the spread of fire.

"A closed door could save your life," states Liam Trott. "Generally doors, even internal doors that are not fire doors, will have some basic resistance to fire, even if it is only a few minutes. However, in a fire, where seconds make all the difference, that door being closed may be the only defence in making sure you can get out."

Liam goes on to point out the importance of having a firm escape plan in place too. "Have a clear plan, think about where your family are in your home and how you will get out if there was a fire – being prepared is such a benefit. Think about where your children sleep, where you sleep, how you will reach them, where you will go next and how you will get out."

5. Take a holistic approach to fire safety

Rather than thinking in terms of individual fixtures and fittings within your home that could pose a fire risk, according to Liam Trott, it makes more sense to take a whole-house approach.

"Fire risk is unavoidable; buildings are generally safe until people are in them, so thinking of risk as a binary concept per fitting or fixture isn’t practical," explains Liam. "Instead, we should consider the risks and adapt or mitigate where necessary. For example, open fires are only a risk if we are storing items next to them that can burn, overloading them, not cleaning the chimney, or not monitoring it while they're lit.

"Likewise, wall panelling might be a risk if there are significant quantities of it in your escape routes," he continues.

"Any device, system, installation, fitting or fixture, every item present could have some element of fire risk, however if installed correctly, in the right location, and looked after, the risk is managed," says Liam.

"When thinking about installing anything new in the home or bringing in a new device, ask yourself: Could this cause a fire, or could it fuel a fire? If the answer is yes, then as a minimum it probably shouldn’t be in your escape route," he advises.

"If the installation is a regulated device, such as a gas boiler, solar panels, or wood stove, then these must be installed by competent people and in line with the relevant regulations to keep you and your family safe."

6. Turn off appliances and devices when not in use

According to Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, faulty appliances are a leading cause of household fires, with tumble dryers and washing machines accounting for 60 fires a year in Devon and Somerset alone. For this reason, it pays to take this next tip seriously.

"Any device that isn’t essential (such as your fridge), should be turned off when going to bed," says Liam Trott. "Do not charge devices overnight or use tumble-dryers, washing machines, dishwashers and so on. The less electrical fault risk at night, the less likely a fire is to occur while you are asleep."

Not only will this tip help reduce the risk of a fire breaking out in your home, it could also help save you money on your household bills – people are often unaware of how much some vampire devices are costing them.

FAQs

Can timber windows and doors be fireproof?

Many people worry that fire doors will ruin the aesthetic of their home, but this is definitely not the case these days – there is now a wide range of stylish options on offer. You need not rule out timber windows and doors either, providing you choose wisely.

Joe Buckley, an expert timber joiner and the founder and director of Heritage Joinery Solutions, explains the importance of choosing fire-safe timber windows and doors with care. "With timber windows and doors, it’s not about making the material itself ‘fireproof’, it’s about how the whole unit performs.

"A fire-safe timber window or door relies on the full system – frame, glazing, seals and installation – working together, not just the surface," explains Joe. "You can improve performance with fire-retardant coatings, paints or varnishes, which help slow the spread of fire, but these need to be applied correctly and maintained over time to remain effective.

"What catches people out is thinking this can be added later," adds Joe. "Fire performance is built into the design, including the glazing, seals and how everything is fitted, and even small changes can affect how the door or window performs under heat."

If you are converting your loft space, there are all kinds of elements to factor in, such as your loft conversion stairs, soundproofing and storage – but one of the most important things to consider is loft conversion fire doors. The choice comes down to more than just aesthetics, so make sure you understand the requirements involved.

If you’ve seen headlines claiming wood burners are set to be banned, you’re not alone – and it’s left many homeowners confused about what’s actually happening.

With thousands relying on stoves for heat and others considering installing one amid high energy costs, knowing the facts matters.

The truth is, there is no ban on wood-burning stoves on the way, but the government is consulting on significant rule changes that could affect new stove sales, labelling requirements and supplier fines in the coming years.

New emissions limits for new stoves

The biggest proposal is a sharp reduction in permitted smoke emissions for new solid fuel appliances.

Current regulations for stoves allow emissions up to 5 grams of smoke per hour (plus 0.1g per 0.3kW of output). The government is consulting on lowering that to 1 gram per hour (plus 0.1g per 0.3kW).

Crucially, the document states: “This proposed new standard would apply to placement on the market of new solid fuel appliances only. Solid fuel appliances which are already installed or placed into the market before any new legislation comes into force would not be affected.”

So existing stoves in people’s homes would not need to be removed or replaced.

Ministers are proposing a 3–5 year lead-in period before the new limits take effect and are also considering regular retesting of stoves after they enter the market to ensure continued compliance.

Mandatory emissions and health labels

The consultation also proposes introducing a mandatory emissions label for new stoves, alongside the existing energy efficiency label.

The draft design includes:

• An A–C emissions rating scale
• Clear information on permitted fuels
• A health warning such as: “Please be aware that this appliance emits air pollution into and around your home which can harm your health.”

The government says the aim is to provide “clear, standardised, and consistent information” at the point of sale.

Again, it makes clear: “Appliances already on the market, as well as in people’s homes, would not be affected by the new labelling.”

There are also proposals for mandatory health warnings on fuel packaging, though this would require new legislation.

Higher fines for rule-breaking suppliers

The third major proposal targets suppliers, not homeowners, to make sure wood-burners are installed properly.

Under current regulations in England, suppliers who breach fuel standards can receive a £300 fixed penalty notice. The consultation suggests this may not be a sufficient deterrent and proposes increasing fines to as much as £2,000, with higher penalties for repeat offenders.

The document says: “We are proposing increasing this up to £2000. This is proportionate to the certification fee and the harm caused by poor air quality.”

These measures would apply to manufacturers, distributors and retailers - not to individuals legally using their stoves.

Why the changes are being considered

It was found in the report that domestic burning accounted for 20.1% of UK PM2.5 emissions in 2023, according to the consultation, similar to emissions from road transport, suggesting wood-burners can be bad for the environment.

As well as this, around 23% of UK households reported engaging in domestic burning in 2022–23, though only about 1% rely on it as their main heating source.

However, the document also acknowledges: “The government accepts that requiring these households to switch to another source of heating may be disproportionately expensive and disruptive.”

The bottom line

Despite headlines suggesting wood burners are being banned or that a ban is under active discussion, the January 2026 consultation contains no proposal to outlaw existing stoves or prevent new installations.

Instead, ministers are debating tougher standards for new appliances, clearer health labelling, and stronger supplier penalties - major regulatory changes, but not a ban.

Christmas is done and you're probably looking at that Christmas tree and thinking its a shame that not more can be done with it.

Well good news is it can still be put to good use, and help you stay warm over the winter period by turning it into firewood for your log burning stove.

Living on a Christmas tree farm has taught me a good few tips about how you can cut, prepare, and burn Christmas trees and make sure they don't go to waste, and I'll share them below.

Trim the branches

To prepare the Christmas tree for cutting you'll want to trim the branches that can get in the way of the cutting, which you can do with a billhook, pruner, or just a small axe.

Make sure to not throw these branches away as they can be very useful as kindling when lighting your burner or fireplace.

Cut and split the Christmas tree

Now it comes to the cutting, which you may need a chainsaw for, or if you have a smaller tree, or if you're feeling adventurous, you may be able to use an axe.

Cut the tree into small enough sections that they can easily fit into your fireplace or log burning stove, making sure to make straight cuts.

If your tree is quite thin then splitting the wood may not be necessary, but if it's thicker, then splitting will help the wood burn better and fit into your fireplace.

Obviously, if you're using a chainsaw or axe, then caution is needed and using a stable surface to hold the tree into place is crucial to avoid slips that could be extremely dangerous.

Leave to dry

Assuming that you've bought a Christmas tree that still has its pine needles then your tree will be wet and very difficult to burn, so trying to burn it straight away will prove difficult.

Burning wet wood is not a good idea as it creates excessive smoke in your home, which is bad for your health. As pine wood is a type of softwood it normally isn't the best for burning anyway, but if you're going to burn it then you'll want it to be dry.

You should store the freshly cut pine wood in a log store or somewhere dry, preferably where wind can get to it so it can dry out faster, and then within 4-6 months it should be perfect for burning.

Just because it's the end of Christmas shouldn't mean your Christmas goes to waste, in the bin, or at the tip.

Pine wood is perfectly fine to burn, as long as it's properly prepared, meaning your tree isn't just used for one day of the year.

Following this advice will mean you get a secondary use from your Christmas tree and help you save a little on turning on the heating or buying firewood, making the use of your tree stretch a little further.

With the rise of modern log burning stoves and growing political pressure to cut air pollution, the days of the traditional open fire may be numbered.

Labour’s updated Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) puts domestic emissions under new scrutiny, and experts say open fireplaces are the “worst offenders” when it comes to household air pollution.

But industry leaders insist cleaner, affordable alternatives already exist for homeowners who still want the glow of real flames.

Open fires 'incompatible' with the UK’s new clean-air targets

The government’s updated EIP tightens limits on PM2.5 - the most harmful particulate pollution – and opens a consultation on domestic burning. According to Calvin May, Head of Technical Services at HETAS, this is both expected and necessary.

“Open fireplaces are among the most polluting, expensive and inefficient ways to burn wood, and their continued use is incompatible with the government’s ambition to reduce annual PM2.5 limits and improve air quality,” he says.

The industry stresses that criticism should not be aimed at households: “Blanket bans or placing the blame on households trying to keep warm this winter are not the way forward,” May adds. Instead, the focus should be on phasing out the most polluting setups – open fires – while helping homeowners transition safely.

Cleaner choice stoves already meet future targets

While open fires face scrutiny, modern appliances are ahead of the curve.

May explains that wood burners, multifuel stoves and pellet stoves that meet Cleaner Choice standards already meet potential EIP targets, proving that the technology is ready for stricter regulation.

“Industry has already delivered dramatic improvements in emissions through innovation and best practices, with existing policy supporting this,” he says. PM2.5 emissions from domestic combustion have already fallen 17% between 2020 and 2023, with total UK PM2.5 down 76% since 1990.

Why fuel choice matters just as much as the stove

Even the cleanest stove can become polluting if the wrong fuel is used. Ready to Burn regulations, which ban burning wet wood and the dirtiest fuels, currently apply only in England.

“This causes confusion and means thousands of stove owners across Scotland and Wales can still buy wet wood and coal,” May warns.

HETAS is calling for consistent UK-wide rules, not only on appliances but on the fuels available to homeowners, to ensure emission reductions are meaningful and fair.

What homeowners can do next

As the consultation progresses, experts emphasise practical solutions rather than panic.

May says: “We urge policymakers to focus on practical, enforceable solutions… Phasing out open fires, supporting competent installation and professional maintenance, educating stove owners on responsible burning, and aligning fuel certification across the UK are just some ways we can meet these new targets.”

For households considering futureproof options, inspiration is easy to find – including these log burner ideas for modern interiors.

Open fires may be fading out, but clean-burning, stylish home-heating alternatives are already here - and ready for whatever the next wave of environmental regulation brings.

The most common reason for blocking up a fireplace is to tidy up an old opening, left from the removal of an old fireplace and its surround.

While there are plenty of beautiful fireplace ideas out there to suit all kinds of interior schemes, in some cases it makes more sense to create a flush finish instead. In some cases, just partially blocking up a fireplace opening can be required where a new type of fire is being installed.

Whatever your reasons for blocking up a fireplace might be, our simple-to-follow guide is here to explain everything you need to know in order to get the job done, for a flawless final finish.

Is blocking up a fireplace a good idea?

With so many beautiful empty fireplace ideas to choose from, you might well be wondering why anyone would go to the trouble of blocking up a fireplace. However, there are several reasons why some homeowners choose to tackle the task, largely based around solving the issue of heat loss caused by chimneys.

"We have dealt many fireplaces, from totally removing them to bricking them up," picks up Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT) and director at AC Design Solution, Zaeem Chaudhary. "The main reason why people brick up the fireplace and chimney is to eliminate heat loss, as well as to prevent damp forming within the unused chimney. Another reason is to provide more usable wall space."

While there are benefits to be had from blocking up a redundant fireplace, the job needs to be carried out properly in order to avoid causing issues elsewhere within the home.

How to block up a fireplace

Just as when opening up a fireplace, this is a job that many homeowners undertake on a DIY basis. However, to ensure that you are not causing more problems than you're solving by blocking up the fireplace, you need to understand that the job isn't just a case of bricking up the existing opening and walking away.

There are several steps that go into making this type of project a success so make sure you follow them closely in order to make the job worthwhile.

1. Remove the back boiler if present

When renovating an old house, you might find a back boiler within your fireplace.

"A back boiler is an old-fashioned heating system that uses heat from the fire to warm water for both domestic use and for the central heating," explains Neil Griffiths, director of Foxley Building Co. "Before blocking up the fireplace this needs to be removed, once the plumbing has been isolated and disconnected."

There is no need to remove the fireback before bricking up starts – this can simply be left in place.

2. Don't forget about ventilation

When blocking up a fireplace you will need to ensure you incorporate some kind of ventilation. Without this you can run into all kinds of issues with damp and, eventually, mould within your old chimney.

"Inadequate ventilation eventually leads to chimney rot," warns Zaeem Chaudhary.

"In order to avoid moisture building up in the chimney space, where it collects on soot deposits, ventilation needs to be put into place," explains Neil Griffiths. "This is simple just by incorporating an airbrick as you go about bricking up the old opening."

3. Cap and sweep the chimney

You want to ensure that, after your fireplace has been blocked up, debris, bird droppings and even the birds themselves, can't find their way down the chimney and into the new void that your fireplace removal has left behind.

"Capping the chimney allows for ventilation at the same time as keeping rain, dirt etc. out," explains Neil Griffiths. "The simplest method is to fit a chimney cowl with ventilation to the top of the pot."

It is fairly rare to remove the entire chimney, but where chimney breast removal is being undertaken, specialist input will be required.

"Sometimes partial removal to the roof line is carried out," says Zaeem Chaudhary. "Full removal needs planning permission and is major structural work."

Finally, it is wise to give the chimney a final sweep before blocking up commences. Leave the damper (if there is one) in an open position for additional ventilation.

4. Brick up the opening

With the old opening clear, ventilated and clean, it is time to begin the task of bricking the fireplace up. Neil Griffiths takes us through the steps.

1. Lay the first row of bricks, leaving around 1cm between each. This should give you an idea of whether you will need to cut bricks before you start. Bear in mind that each brick on the subsequent rows will need to be centred over the mortar joint of the brick below.
2. Slightly dampen the brickwork surrounding the opening to make it easier for the mortar to adhere to.
3. Lay the first row of bricks on a bed of mortar (made using a mixture of 4:1 sand and cement.) Remember to apply mortar to the ends of the bricks and the sides of the opening.
4. Don't forget to fit the airbrick. Centrally in the third row is a good spot, or somewhere it won't be obstructed by the new skirting. It should sit a little proud of the rest of the bricks, in line with the plasterwork of the surrounding wall. Use a straight edge to help.
5. When you get to the top row of bricks, if you find that full height bricks won't fit, you can use broken pieces of brick or roof tile, set within mortar, to fill the gap.
6. Once the mortar has dried, the brickwork can be plastered over (avoiding the airbrick) and new skirting fitted for a tidy finish.

Shop tools for blocking up a fireplace

FAQs

Is blocking up a fireplace with plasterboard a good idea?

Some people choose to block up a fireplace using plasterboard rather than bricks. In this case, you will need to construct a timber frame around the inside of the opening, setting it back slightly, the same thickness as the board.

Screw the plasterboard to the battens (ensuring you have read up on drilling into plasterboard first) and fit a ventilator board towards the bottom. It is a good idea to add reinforcement with tape around the edges of the board, before skimming over the whole thing.

While this method is simple, bear in mind that, for larger openings, more than 600mm in width, you will need to fit an additional, central batten, to strengthen the boarding up. A bricked up opening offers a more solid solution.

Many homeowners carrying out this task also look into how to plaster a wall given the smaller nature of the task after blocking up a fireplace.

Few will deny there’s a certain charm to oak beam fireplaces. Part practical, part decorative, the beam anchors the room in a way that feels both comforting and characterful. It doesn’t matter if you opt for the rustic heft of reclaimed timber or the pared-back simplicity of a slim, modern finish – these classic fireplace ideas never seem to go out of style.

What makes oak so appealing is its ability to shape-shift with its setting. In a country cottage, it can lean into tradition, full of grain and weathered detail. In a newer build, it can be clean-lined and minimal, lending warmth without fuss.

But designing an oak beam fireplace isn’t just about picking the prettiest piece of wood and hoping for the best. Proportions matter, finishes make all the difference, and, crucially, so does safety. With expert insight and inspiring ideas, we’ll guide you through how to get it right so your fireplace becomes the inviting centrepiece it deserves to be.

1. Embrace rustic character with a reclaimed beam

A weathered, oversized beam is one of the easiest ways to bring depth and authenticity to your open fireplace ideas. In this example from Lights4Fun, the rustic timber looks as though it has been in place for decades – its uneven edges and textured grain lending the room a lived-in, characterful feel. Paired with a black inset stove and a natural stone hearth, the result is both cosy and timeless.

And if you’re working with a log burning stove rather than an open fire, the same principle applies. Phil Wood, UK managing director of Contura, explains: “For those with a stove set into a fireplace, a reclaimed beam can be repurposed and used as a beam or stove surround, adding rustic charm and character and framing the area as the centrepiece of the room. The natural grain and texture of oak introduces an organic element that complements both traditional and contemporary interiors.”

2. Lean into traditional fireplace design for timeless appeal

Sometimes the most effective designs are the simplest. A solid oak beam paired with exposed brickwork and a cast-iron stove is a classic combination that never goes out of style. The natural warmth of the timber offsets the rugged texture of the brick, while the stove completes the picture with a homely glow.

This kind of setup works especially well in period homes or country cottages, where keeping true to traditional details helps preserve the character of the property. Add in wicker log baskets, heritage flooring or vintage finds, and you’ll have a fireplace that feels beautifully rooted in tradition.

3. Choose a pale, sanded oak beam for a softer finish

Not all oak beams need to be dark or heavily textured. A pale, sanded beam can lend a lighter touch to the fireplace, giving it a relaxed, understated feel. In this scheme by Direct Stoves, the beam’s soft, natural tones balance the sharp lines of the modern stove below.

Choosing a lighter finish is also a clever way to stop a chunky beam from overpowering the room. It works particularly well against neutral walls, where the subtle grain of the oak can stand out without dominating the space.

4. Treat and seal an oak beam to keep it stylish and compliant

Oak beams never go out of style, but as they are a combustible material, you’ll need to think carefully about where and how they’re fitted. Not only will the right treatment keep your beam looking beautiful, it will also help ensure your fire complies with Building Regulations for log burners.

Joanna Humphreys, fire and stove specialist at Direct Stoves, explains: “Solid wood beams, such as oak, pine or walnut, are very appealing as they have a beautiful unique grain to them. However, as wood is a combustible material, you need to make sure you place it a safe distance away from the top of your stove – this should be specified in your stove manual and will be covered by Building Regulations, so make sure you adhere to it.”

“A non-combustible shield can be used to reduce distances in some cases, or composite beams or non-combustible alternatives are often used to achieve the look safely," adds Phil Wood, MD at Contura.

Once fitted correctly, regular maintenance will keep your beam at its best. A light sanding helps smooth away marks and prepare the surface, while applying a stain can completely transform its character. Follow your stain with a coat of beeswax or wood oil to nourish and seal the timber and protect it from stains and heat marks. Done regularly, this not only prolongs the life of the beam but also enhances its natural patina.

5. Experiment with colour and faux oak beams for a modern twist

Oak beams don’t have to stick to the rustic look. A coloured or faux finish can give your fireplace a modern edge while still keeping the cosy warmth of timber. In this example, a dark-stained beam frames the stove and stands out against pale stonework for a bold, contemporary touch. Patterned tiles on the hearth add even more character, softening the contrast and giving the fireplace a playful, design-led twist.

Faux oak beams are particularly clever if you want the 'look' without the upkeep. Adam Oldfield, director at StovesAreUs, explains: “Faux oak beams are another great alternative. They’re easy to install, especially on stud walls, and don’t require the same maintenance as wood, while still providing an authentic look.”

6. Mix rustic beams with modern stoves

There’s something undeniably charming about a weathered oak beam against exposed brickwork. It feels as if it’s always been there. But pair that rustic backdrop with a sleek, contemporary stove and suddenly you’ve got a fireplace that feels both nostalgic and thoroughly up to date.

The beauty of this mix-and-match approach is how it celebrates contrasts: rough-hewn timber alongside clean steel and old-world character meeting modern comfort. It proves that you don’t need to commit to one style or the other to get beautiful results. Sometimes the most inviting living spaces are the ones that blend the best of both worlds.

7. Match your oak beam to other woodwork for a cohesive look

If your living room already features exposed beams or timber details, echoing the same tone and texture on your fireplace beam is a simple way to pull the whole space together. In this room, the dark-stained oak mantel mirrors the ceiling beams above, creating a sense of balance that feels intentional and design-led.

Of course, repeating materials doesn’t mean you have to stick to one look. A pale, limed oak beam can brighten up a room with lots of natural light, while a deeper rustic finish will add warmth and weight. And if you’re painting ceiling beams elsewhere in the space, choosing a mantel in a complementary shade is an easy way to keep everything feeling cohesive.

8. Keep things sleek with a simple floating beam

Floating beams are a smart way to give your fireplace a lighter, more streamlined finish, especially in modern living rooms where bulky log burner surrounds can feel overpowering.

Adam Oldfield explains: “A ‘floating’ oak beam, mounted without visible supports, creates a clean and contemporary look, while placing the beam directly above the fireplace opening feels more classic and grounded.”

It’s this balance of contemporary and traditional that makes floating beams so versatile. They can sit seamlessly in a minimalist living room, or be styled up with artwork or a mirror above the stove for a softer, more homely feel. And because they lack heavy brackets or corbels, they give the illusion of space – a clever trick if your fireplace is in a small or awkward terrace living room.

9. Embrace natural edges for a rustic statement

If you love a natural, lived-in feel, choose an oak beam that shows off its raw edges and imperfections. The bark-edged design pictured here brings real charm and authenticity to the simple log burner, making it feel instantly more characterful.

These rustic finishes work particularly well when styled with copper or brass accents, which highlight the warmth of the wood grain above. You could also add depth by tiling behind a log burner. Patterned tiles bring a playful touch, while a stone or slate hearth will keep the look earthy and traditional.

10. Pair a double-sided log burner with an oak beam for the ultimate focal point

A double-sided log burner is one of the most stylish ways to zone an open-plan room. In this stunning setup by Mendip Stoves, the fireplace connects the living area with the dining space, creating warmth and atmosphere on both sides.

This design proves that oak beams aren’t just for traditional fireplaces – when teamed with a modern freestanding stove and crisp plasterwork, they add a layer of texture that softens contemporary design and makes the space feel more 'lived-in'.

For the most cohesive effect, consider mirroring the look with a matching oak beam on both sides of the log burner. This creates balance across the two rooms and ensures the fireplace feels like a single, seamless feature rather than two separate openings.

Thinking beyond the living room? A fireplace or log burner could transform other areas of your home too. Explore whether a log burner works in a kitchen, and discover how to choose the right size stove to keep your space perfectly warm.

The glow of a log burner is irresistible as the evenings turn colder, but it’s the hearth that truly anchors the space. More than a safety feature, it acts as the canvas that frames your fire – which is why it pays to get your log burner hearth ideas spot on.

The beauty of a hearth is how versatile it can be. Some homeowners love the timeless appeal of slate or granite, others prefer the decorative lift of patterned tiles, while glass and steel bring a sharp, modern edge. Whatever your style, this feature sets the tone for the whole room.

So, whether you’re renovating a cottage snug or reworking a sleek open-plan space, there are endless ways to make your log burner ideas work harder. With advice from stove specialists and designers – plus plenty of inspiring looks to borrow – here’s how to choose a base that feels intentional, stylish, and completely your own.

1. Choose a classic slate design

There’s a reason slate remains a go-to for log burner hearths. Its adaptability means it can feel rustic and homely, or sharp and modern, depending on the finish you choose.

As Joanna Humphreys, fire and stove specialist at Direct Stoves, explains: “Slate looks lovely with a solid fuel burning stove. You can choose to have it in a deep matte grey tone or polish it up for a jet-black finish. They're an ideal match for traditionally styled stoves but will match contemporary freestanding stoves as well."

Slate is also a practical choice, as Glen van Zeller, director at Scotts Arms Stoves, explains: “Over the years we've found the best material is slate, as it can be oiled yearly.” According to Glen, this simple upkeep not only refreshes the colour and finish but also helps protect the surface of your hearth, ensuring it stays looking its best even with regular use.

Top tip: Because slate is naturally porous, when cleaning a slate hearth, Glen van Zeller recommends sealing it to combat staining and preserve its appearance over time. TABLEAU Slate Oil from Amazon UK will do the job nicely – it's affordable, suitable for use on hearths, and highly reviewed by customers.

2. Opt for a natural stone finishes for a rustic look

For a hearth that feels grounded and organic, natural stone is a reliable and characterful choice. Rough-hewn or irregular slabs offer a rustic, hand-finished look, while polished cuts of granite or marble can lend a more refined, architectural edge to a room.

Adam Oldfield, director at StovesAreUs, explains why natural stone is such a popular choice: “Choosing a durable, non-combustible material is essential to protect the surrounding floors and comply with stove building regulations. Popular choices include limestone, slate, granite, and marble. These materials offer both heat resistance and visual appeal, suiting everything from rustic to ultra-modern interiors.”

Phil Wood, UK MD of Contura, highlights the appeal of different finishes: “Natural stones such as granite, slate and limestone are all aesthetically pleasing. Clients typically use the latter for rustic, cottage settings, or granite for a sleek, modern touch. Similarly, marble is a highly heat-resistant option, as well as being easy to clean. Despite being a little more on the expensive side, its unique veining and patterns means your hearth is bound to be a one-off.”

For those considering granite, Joanna Humphreys adds a practical tip: “Granite is the best hearth material for solid fuel-burning fires, such as a wood-burner. However, to withstand the heat from your stove, you need to get a granite hearth that has been ‘slabbed’. This means that it has been cut into pieces and mounted in concrete to allow for contraction – to give it space to expand as it heats up.”

3. Embrace a bold tiled look

Who says a log burner has to feel traditional? Pairing a brightly painted stove with a tiled hearth in clashing colours creates an instant mood boost. Here, Arada Stoves has turned tradition on its head with a hot pink stove and pastel chequerboard hearth. It's a striking statement look that radiates personality.

Adam Oldfield from StovesAreUs agrees that tiles offer huge creative scope: “Hearths don’t need to be plain – heat-resistant tiles offer huge design potential. Checkered or harlequin tiles in monochrome will complement a minimalist interior, while starry, geometric, or Moroccan-inspired patterns make a bolder statement.”

And if you’re not afraid of colour, let your hearth reflect that. A multicoloured design or a run of graphic patterned tiles can turn an otherwise plain log burner into an instant conversation starter.

4. Incorporate built-in log storage

By building log storage into the hearth itself – whether through recessed cubbies or a raised stone platform – you create a feature that feels intentional while keeping fuel close to hand.

“Functional and stylish, integrated log storage around the hearth adds practicality while creating a cosy, contemporary look,” explains Phil Wood. “Use granite or stone hearths with built-in cubbies for logs to showcase the wood itself, serving to anchor the fireplace in the room whilst also adding warmth and texture.”

For day-to-day use, Phil Wood also advises a little care when handling fuel: “When moving logs, use a log basket rather than stacking directly on the hearth. This will prevent scratches on softer materials like slate.”

Keeping log storage ideas neat and considered not only protects your surfaces but also ensures the hearth remains a focal point rather than a cluttered corner.

5. Choose exposed brickwork

For a hearth with instant warmth and authenticity, brick is hard to beat. Its natural texture and earthy tones give a log burner a classic, grounded look, whether you’re working with an original fireplace or creating a new surround. The effect feels especially at home in period properties, where brick complements traditional detailing and adds a rustic edge.

Phil Wood highlights why it’s a reliable option: “Brick is a traditional choice, known for its heat resistance. It can withstand high temperatures without cracking or degrading. It retains a cool outer surface even under intense heat, preventing damage to your stove.”

As this design by Direct Stoves shows, exposed brickwork also pairs beautifully with timber mantels, sleek black stoves and soft lighting.

6. Introduce patterned or mosaic tiles

Whether you choose a subtle mosaic in soft neutrals or a vibrant patchwork of colour, patterned tiles can transform the base of your stove into a highly decorative feature. The example here from StovesAreUs shows how a mix of intricate designs in earthy shades adds character and depth to an otherwise pared-back scheme.

“For those looking to inject some personality into their fireplace, patterned tiles are a unique way of transforming the hearth into a statement feature," explains Phil Wood, "Instead of plain stone, opting for artisan cement, decorative clay or small mosaic patterns adds colour and vibrant visual textures. With geometric, playful or floral designs, the hearth transforms from a functional object into an eye-catching feature that reflects the personality of the homeowner.”

Get the look

7. Contrast the surround and hearth

Adam Oldfield from StovesAreUs suggests using contrast to frame your fireplace ideas.

“Try using contrasting colours and materials to frame the hearth,” he says. “For example, pair a black granite hearth with brass or copper fenders, or contrast creamy marble with an ornate black surround.”

Playing with contrast is a simple but effective way to make your stove area feel considered. As shown in the design above, terrazzo is another strong option. Its speckled finish adds a playful, mid-century note to this oak beam fireplace while still being durable and heat-safe.

8. Embrace a flush design

A flush hearth creates a seamless line between the stove and the floor, and in glass the effect is even sharper as it protects while remaining almost invisible in the room. It’s a clever option for modern living rooms where you want the flames to be the main focus rather than the base beneath them.

“For a modern flush design, few materials achieve the look as well as glass. These are a stylish and contemporary choice that provides a safe surround for solid fuel stoves,” says Joanna Humphreys. She adds that unlike darker stone, glass doesn’t visually cut into the floor: “The benefit of glass is that, if you have a stone hearth, it’s almost guaranteed to be dark in colour, meaning you may ‘lose’ part of your floor. Glass hearths are also easy to clean.”

She also highlights steel as an alternative: “Like glass hearths, steel provides a modern choice to sit underneath your stove that can be shaped much easier than stone. Easy to clean, steel hearths are an ideal match for contemporary wood burning stoves, almost acting as an extension to the styling.”

9. Use reflective or polished finishes

A log burner is all about atmosphere, and the right finish beneath it can amplify that warmth tenfold. Polished stone or high-shine marble not only protects your floor, but it plays with the light, bouncing the flicker of the flames back into the room. The effect is luminous, almost theatrical, and can make even the smallest corner feel more expansive.

Phil Wood explains how these surfaces can shape the mood of a space: “Using materials or finishes that contrast with the surrounding walls or floor can make your hearth feel more intentional. For example, a dark slate hearth will stand out against a pale timber floor, while a lighter stone or marble hearth can brighten a darker room. Contrast can also be introduced through textures. Pairing a matte hearth with a glass stove door for example, will make a powerful statement and draw attention to the flames.”

10. Keep it tonal

Sometimes the most effective hearth design is the quietest. Choosing materials in the same palette as your walls or floors creates a tonal look where the stove appears built into the architecture. It’s a sophisticated approach that works beautifully in contemporary spaces, giving the fire a calm backdrop that lets the flames do the talking.

The effect is shown here in warm stone hues, where the hearth, surround and walls melt into one another. By limiting contrasts, the overall look feels soft, cohesive and carefully considered, which is ideal if you want your log burner to complement rather than dominate the room.

Practical tip: Tonal designs work best when you choose durable finishes that won’t stain or mark easily, as paler surfaces can be less forgiving around an active stove.

FAQs

How much clearance should you leave around a log burner?

Clearances are essential for both safety and compliance with building regulations. Jon Butterworth, director at Arada Stoves, advises:

“When fitting a stove, you must allow enough clearance from combustible materials like wood or plasterboard to meet safety rules and prevent fire risks. The exact distances depend on the stove model, so always check with your installer, but as a guide:

• Above the stove: 150mm (500mm if there’s a wooden mantel)
• Sides: 150mm each side
• Front: 255mm
• Hearth: at least 840x840mm and 12mm thick
• Behind the stove: varies by model – ask your fitter.

What if my stove is fitted into a fireplace recess?

“For a stove in a fireplace recess, the above rules apply however there needs to be a ‘constructional hearth’ which projects at least 500mm forward of the front of the stove and 150mm at each side. This floor of the fireplace needs to be at least 250mm thick to meet building regulations.”

How do you maintain a log burner hearth?

Like the stove itself, the hearth will benefit from regular upkeep to keep it safe and looking its best. Phil Wood, UK Managing Director of Contura, advises the following practical tips:

“Regular cleaning is very important – sweep or vacuum the hearth to remove ash, dust or splinters of wood. For stone or tile, a damp cloth and light soap solution work best, while harsh chemicals should be avoided as they may stain or damage the surface. Keeping the hearth free of clutter helps it remain a strong feature in a room and is also key to using your wood-burning stove safely.”

If you’re installing a log burner, it’s worth thinking about the finishing touches. Exploring log burner surround ideas can help you create a feature that feels intentional, while the best stove fan will help you get the most out of your model by distributing heat more quickly. And don’t forget, knowing how to clean log burner glass will keep your view of the flames crystal clear.

Buying the best fireplace accessories is the perfect way to create a more authentic look when finalising your fireplace ideas, even if your flames are faux. But, as well as looking good, making sure you have all the kit you need to keep it working efficiently is essential for a warm and toasty winter.

From fireside companions to fans, ash bins to log stores, there's a list of fireplace accessories you need when heating your home using fire.

The good news is, whether your taste is traditional or you prefer a modern look, there's something in our guide on where to buy the best fireplace accessories.

Which fireplace accessories might you need?

So why do experts say we need fireplace accessories when you've already just paid for a new fire?

"When it comes to enjoying your stove or fireplace to its full potential, the right accessories are just as important as the stove itself," advises Jon Butterworth, director at Arada Stoves.

"For a log burner, we always recommend with the basics, a good log basket to keep your fuel dry and accessible and a pair of heatproof gloves. They may seem simple, but they make a big difference in everyday use."

And, as well as accessories, it's worth bearing in mind you may need on occasion to replace some parts too, adds Jon.

"When it comes to looking after your stove, you might need to revive its appearance or replace some of the consumable components. Your stove may not burn as efficiently as it once did, for example, if your stove door seal is no longer intact," he warns.

"Broken or split seals affect the air-tightness in the fire chamber, which can diminish the rate and quality of the burn and make the initial lighting of the fuel difficult. You should check that your stove door rope is still maintaining a tight seal by doing an easy test. 

"Fold a single piece of A4 paper in half and close the door against the paper. The door rope should grip the paper, so if the paper falls out, then the rope seal will potentially need replacing," advises Jon.

“Also make sure when ordering your stove or fireplace, the manufacturer can include a pot of paint which can be used to paint your stove should you need to touch it up at a later date from potential wear and tear."

Fireside companions

Fireside companion sets are an essential when it comes to log burning fires. They comprise all the tools you need to keep your fire working and in good condition.

While traditional cast iron designs were once the only option, modern log burner ideas, and modern fireplaces are also now catered for and it's just as easy to get a contemporary fireside companion set to suit your overall decor.

You also don't have to look too far, or spend too much money if you don't want to. Some of our favourites can be found at retailers such as Dunelm, B&Q and Amazon.

Log baskets and stores

For those of you who have a log burning fireplace, having somewhere close to hand with a stack of logs to keep the fire burning is a must. While outdoor log store ideas can handle the bulk of your firewood, having a plentiful supply indoors is important too.

So, if your log burner doesn't have a built in store, or you haven't included a built in one in your fireplace design, these stylish options are a good alternative instead.

Cleaning equipment

Messy but unavoidable, being able to clear the ash from your fireplace or log burner is an essential step in your fireplace maintenance.

While your average dustpan and brush will do the trick, it's far better to have a purpose built set designed for use with fires. It's likely to be made from more suitable materials, and will prevent the ash from spreading elsewhere in your home.

A dedicated ash bin is also a great fireplace accessory too, which is why we've included one here.

Guards and heat shields

If your home's inhabitants include small children or pets, you may want to consider some additional safety features around your fireplace in order to protect them.

Fire guards will still allow heat to filter through into your room, while heat shields or hearth protectors can be a good idea if you want to add a layer of heat protection to your walls and or hearth.

As with most fireplace accessories, these items are readily available online, or perhaps even from the retailer where you purchased your fire, with stores such as Direct Stoves offering some items on their website.

Once you've installed your new fireplace or log burner, be it a freestanding log burner or a more traditional fireplace and hearth, make sure you also follow the expert advice for cleaning log burner glass and keeping a slate hearth clean for a fireplace that glows and works well all winter long.

Mounting a TV above a fireplace has become a go-to feature in living room design, and it’s easy to see why. It brings two focal points together, frees up floor space and gives the room a cleaner, more intentional feel.

That said, it’s not always as simple as hanging the screen and hoping for the best. Rising heat, neck-straining angles and clunky proportions are just a few of the pitfalls that can throw the balance off. Thankfully, with a bit of planning and some clever styling tricks, you can make this setup both practical and stylish.

To help, we’ve gathered insight from stove and fire specialists, along with plenty of inspiration to ensure your TV above fireplace ideas feel safe, comfortable and beautifully put together.

1. Add a mantel beam for both style and safety

A fireplace beam is a great way to soften the transition between an open fire or a log burner and the television above it, helping the wall feel more considered and less like two separate features stacked together.

“Beams can be adapted to accommodate TV mounting, shelving or integrated lighting, and pair beautifully with stone or brick,” explains Phil Wood, UK managing director of Contura.

But the benefits of beams aren’t purely aesthetic. As Adam Oldfield, director at StovesAreUs, explains: “Heat and electronics don’t mix, so you should always check your stove’s heat output and manufacturer guidance to ensure your TV is positioned a safe distance away. Installing a mantel or fireplace beam between the stove and screen can help deflect rising heat and protect the TV."

Top tip: Most setups require at least 40–60cm of clearance above the stove to avoid heat damage.

2. Turn your fireplace into a statement furniture piece

Not all TV above fireplace ideas need to be wall-bound. This glamorous setup by Covet House takes an entirely different approach, encasing the fire within a striking console-style unit. With its metallic finish and playful detailing, the piece feels more like a bespoke item of furniture than a traditional fireplace surround.

Better still, this setup leaves a comfortable gap between the flames and the television screen where you can layer decorative objects and style your fireplace with personality. Joanna Humphreys, fire and stove specialist at Direct Stoves, explains:
“When it comes to styling a mantle or beam, you have an array of options available. For more modern living rooms, keep it minimal with a curated selection of pieces, but for more traditional, classic homes you can lean into any architectural or characterful details of the property and mirror this through your choice of accessories to help create that cosy, cottage feel.”

3. Float both your fire and television for a light, modern look

Floating both the fire and the TV gives a living room a lighter, more modern touch. Raising the fire off the floor keeps the wall feeling open, while the slim ledge adds just enough character without weighing down the design.

In this example from Direct Fireplaces, the fire is framed by a simple shelf that doubles as a heat deflector, with the TV mounted neatly above. The effect is clean, minimal, and a smart way to save precious floor space in smaller terrace living rooms.

4. Disguise your TV as art above the mantel

When the fireplace mantel is the real showpiece in a room, the last thing you want is a black rectangle competing for attention. That’s where Frame TVs come into their own, doubling as artwork when not in use.

For example, in this colourful Wayfair living room, the pink marble mantel takes the lead, with the TV above showing a floral print that slips easily into the scheme. The result is a wall that feels considered and curated, rather than interrupted by a blank screen.

To help the setup blend in even further, Adam Oldfield suggests rethinking the wall treatment: “Wood panelling also makes a great backdrop for electric fireplaces, while painting the wall behind the TV and fire a dark colour can help them blend in when turned off.”

By styling the mantel with plants, vases or collected treasures, you can draw the eye to your display first, leaving the TV to fade quietly into the background until it’s time to watch.

5. Soften a modern fire with gentle curves

Media walls can sometimes lean a little too heavily on sharp edges and straight lines, but introduce a curve or two and the whole mood of the room shifts. Here, the sweep of an arched surround softens the wall, pushing the TV into the background and letting the fire below take the spotlight.

The idea is echoed in the alcoves on either side, where marble-effect panels bring just enough drama without overwhelming the minimalist living room. It’s proof that repeating shapes — an arch here, a curve there, maybe even a rounded light fitting — can really pull a scheme together.

6. Introduce LED backlighting for a cinema-style glow

A recessed wall with subtle LED lighting takes a simple TV-and-fireplace setup into home-cinema territory. Here, a slim band of blue light frames the screen against the dark wall, while the fire below adds its own warm glow.

To make the setup practical as well as stylish, Joanna Humphreys offers a reminder: "Don’t forget ergonomics. For comfortable viewing, the centre of your TV screen should be at eye level when you are seated. Considering that with a stove, you’ll need to make sure the TV is mounted at a safe distance, it could end up positioned too high – forcing you to crane your neck upwards. This can lead to neck strain and a sub-optimal viewing experience.”

You can recreate this look at home with the Aclorol USB LED Strip Light Kit from Amazon UK. It’s easy to install and sits neatly behind the screen, adding a glow that transforms film nights.

7. Frame your fire and TV with built-in shelving

TV and fireplace setups almost always feel more considered when they are framed with built-in living room storage or shelving. In this design by Caffe Latte Home, timber alcoves sit either side of the marble-effect fire surround, bringing balance and symmetry to what could otherwise be a stark feature wall.

Adam Oldfield suggests taking the idea one step further: “You could also opt for a built-in television to create a full media wall, where cables are hidden for a sleek, integrated look. A slim-framed TV looks more subtle, and recessing it into the wall can enhance the built-in effect.”

FAQs

Should I choose the fire or the TV first?

“Before you select a fire or TV, it's essential to accurately measure the full dimensions of your room and the wall area designated for the media wall,” explains Joanna Humphreys from Direct Stoves. “This initial step gives you the maximum width and height parameters.

The next task is to choose the fire that suits your space. This will serve as the anchor for your media wall. Once you've found the right fire, you can build the rest of the surrounding design.”

Your choice of television needs the same level of consideration. “Your viewing distance from the screen also affects which size TV you pick,” Joanna adds. “The optimal viewing area falls within a 40-degree field of vision, allowing your eyes to take in the whole picture comfortably without excessive head turning. Check the distance from your prime seating spot to where the TV will hang and match it to the recommended size range.”

How can you make sure the fire and TV look balanced?

Joanna Humphreys advises starting with a plan: “Sketch the wall to scale on graph paper, noting any windows, doors, or existing built-ins. This blueprint will assist in placing the fire and TV in proportion to the space and ensure you have sufficient floor space clearance for traffic flow and furniture arrangements.”

It’s a simple step that makes all the difference. By plotting everything out to scale before you buy, you’ll have a clear idea of what sizes will work and how the fire and TV will sit together visually. This helps avoid common pitfalls, like an oversized screen dwarfing a smaller fireplace, or a fire that feels lost on a wide wall.

If a TV above the fireplace isn’t quite your style, there are plenty of other chimney breast ideas to explore. And if you’re thinking about removing the fire altogether, our guide to gas fire removal covers everything you need to know to do it safely

While finding asbestos in fireplaces might not be what you were hoping for when renovating an older property, there is no need to abandon your dream fireplace ideas just yet – there is always a solution.

Asbestos was commonly used in all kinds of areas of the home right up until the late 1980s, so even renovators working on relatively 'new' properties could find themselves faced with this issue.

We reached out to the experts for their advice on where you might find asbestos within a fireplace and what you should do about it.

Why might you find asbestos in a fireplace?

First things first, it is useful to understand the reasons why you might be faced with the presence of asbestos in a fireplace.

"Asbestos, and certain materials containing asbestos, are a good insulator of heat and are resistant to fire," explains Calvin May, head of technical service at HETAS. "This made it an ideal material to use in the construction of certain products which needed to retain heat to function appropriately, like flues within a chimney, or components of a hot water heating system."

While asbestos is no longer used in the construction of fireplaces, anyone living in – and renovating – an older property still needs to be alert to it.

"Technology has since advanced beyond the need for asbestos," continues Calvin May. "However, HETAS installers may, on rare occasions, come across older properties which still contain some asbestos."

Where are you likely to find asbestos in fireplace?

Whether you are restoring a fireplace, hoping to tear out an old fireplace to replace it with a new model, or have discovered a blocked-up opening that once housed a fireplace, you need to be aware that there could be asbestos lurking in there somewhere.

"To maintain the highest levels of safety, works carried out on a property built or refurbished before 2000 should be assumed to have the potential to contain asbestos," warns Calvin May. "A risk assessment should be carried out by an individual with sufficient knowledge, training and expertise to identify any potential areas containing asbestos before any works commence."

So where are you likely to find asbestos?

"Asbestos is most likely to be found in the lining system of a chimney, or any other nearby components manufactured to retain heat," explains Calvin. "Its presence is significantly more likely in older properties."

Reece Toscani, owner of Redefining Woodburners, points out some other areas to be wary of.

"The presence of asbestos in old fireplace mortar is a possibility, especially if the fireplace was constructed or renovated before the 1980s when asbestos was commonly used in building materials," points out Reece.

"There is a chance, in older properties, that panels of insulation around your fireplace could contain asbestos," continues Reece. "Due to its fire retardant properties it was often mixed into concrete, and plaster, for floors, walls and ceilings. It was also used in and around fireplaces, flue and heating systems, thus there is a chance in older properties that the panels of insulation around your fireplace could still contain it."

There are also some pretty surprising spots in fireplaces that asbestos could be lurking, including within old wood burning stoves, in the stove rope that acts as a seal.

"Sometimes known as the stove gaskets, these were used to seal the stove against air leaks. Asbestos is no longer used in stove rope and it is quite rare to come across it these days," says Reece. " Stoves sold in the UK after 2000 will not have asbestos rope inside them, and the likelihood is that stoves installed prior to this would have had the rope replaced in in the last 20 years with a new fibreglass rope seal. That being said, older stoves that have not seen the light of day for a few decades may require you to proceed with caution."

Homeowners with old gas fires need to be aware that asbestos could be present here too.

"Unlike modern gas fires that use ceramic glass fibres to mould and shape the realistic looking logs, coals and pebbles, some old gas fires may still have original fuel effects that contain asbestos," says Reece Toscani.

How do you identify asbestos in a fireplace?

It is not always clear to the untrained eye when you are looking at asbestos and when you are dealing with something far more harmless.

"If you are ever unsure whether your property contains asbestos, it is best to contact a professional, licensed organisation to help," says Calvin May.

While asbestos often has a white, grey or sometimes brown appearance, with a textured surface, it was also often combined with other materials, such as cement, making it hard to identify.

Rather than go digging around looking for it, which could be extremely hazardous, it is always best to assume its presence if you are opening up a fireplace or dealing with one that hasn't been upgraded for some years and call in the pros.

How dangerous is asbestos in a fireplace?

While you shouldn't pack up your belongings and flee if you suspect asbestos in your fireplace, neither should you do nothing.

"Asbestos in a fireplace is extremely dangerous, as disturbing asbestos in any way can release tiny fibres that are detrimental to human health, causing individuals to develop lung disease, lung tissue scarring and other respiratory illnesses," says Calvin May. "The effects may not be instantly noticeable and may even take years to develop, so it is important to take the necessary precautions if asbestos is believed to be present in a fireplace."

How do you remove asbestos from a fireplace?

While you might be keen to get your modern fireplace ideas underway, this is definitely not a time to test out your DIY skills – any kind of asbestos removal needs to be carried out by a qualified professional.

"Should you find any or suspect your home contains asbestos, do not attempt to remove it yourself," confirms Reece Toscani. "Call a professional and do not disturb it."

"You should always ensure asbestos is controlled under an appropriate license," adds Calvin May. "Asbestos used for insulation purposes is considered high-risk and should not be handled if you do not have the necessary license.

"Sometimes removal may not be possible, and the asbestos may require sealing to protect it from further disturbance," adds Calvin.

FAQs

Where else are you likely to find asbestos in a house?

It isn't just fireplaces that asbestos was used within by builders in the past – there are other spots around the home that it was deemed useful for too.

Asbestos roof tiles were a common feature of some inter-war bungalows, while many Artex ceilings could also contain this substance. Pipe lagging, insulation and even some cement flooring are all other areas that could contain asbestos. In short, if you are renovating a house that was built before the 1980s, be aware that there could be asbestos somewhere in your home.

Renovating a house is an exciting project, but it is always worth being aware of potential hazards, including harmful materials, such as asbestos, mould and damp.

If the allure of log-burning stoves appeals, but budget is limited, you may be considering purchasing a secondhand log burner. But can you buy one and should you get it installed, or will you be breaking the current regulations if you do?

With strict guidelines in place surrounding the burning of wood, as well as the types and models of stoves that are permitted, it's important to know what is and isn't allowed when it comes to secondhand log burners.

As while it may be tempting to snap up that second hand log burner you've seen for sale locally, you could find yourself in a hotter mess than you bargained for if you don't get it right.

Is it illegal to buy a secondhand log burner?

In short, the answer is no, it isn't illegal to buy a secondhand log burner, although it's a little more in-depth than that say the experts.

We spoke to Calvin May, head of technical service at HETAS, the independent not-for-profit organisation promoting cleaner and safer choices for the use of biomass and other solid fuels, appliances and associated technologies, to find out the implications of buying and installing a secondhand log burner.

Ecodesign and secondhand log burners

Before we delve into the details of installing a second hand log burner, it's important to understand the guidance behind Ecodesign legislation. Since 2022, it's become illegal for manufacturers to build and supply wood burning stoves that don't comply with Ecodesign guidelines.

Introduced to improve the energy efficiency of wood burning stoves and reduce their environmental impact, it's still a relatively new rule, which means there are still stoves in existence that aren't manufactured under these guidelines.

So, while it's never advisable to purchase a log burner that is more than 10 years old, you can still buy models that were manufactured prior to 2022 – whether that's first or second-hand.

Calvin May explains how the rule affects log burners made before this date and then sold on. "Stoves that have already been installed before 1 January 2022 (non-Ecodesign models) and are then sold on the secondhand market are not required, by Ecodesign regulations, to meet the emission and efficiency criteria before their sale and therefore can be installed," confirms Calvin.

Although it would be wise to ensure any secondhand log burner you do purchase is sold with an invoice or proof of purchase, as you could find you need to confirm its origin and timestamp.

"If the stove can be evidenced as being manufactured and placed on the market before 1 January 2022, then it legally can be sold in conformity with the Ecodesign regulations and installed in the UK.

"This includes any stove that can be evidenced as being in the supply chain (such as warehouse storage) before this date, not just second-hand stoves," says Calvin.

Installing a secondhand log burner

As installing a log burner is a job best saved for the professionals, it would be fair to assume you may find an installer reluctant to install a secondhand one. But is this the case, or are they permitted to do so?

"Can an installer fit a secondhand non Ecodesign log burner? The simple answer is yes," confirms Calvin. "Ecodesign regulations are required at point of manufacture, so a registered installer is not prohibited from installing a secondhand, non-Ecodesign stove, even after 1 January 2022.

"However, the installer will still be required to ensure that the appliance meets the minimum gross efficiency limits specified in UK Building Regulations," warns Calvin.

And it's because of this you may find an installer less reluctant to work with a secondhand product.

The impact of compliance on secondhand log burner installation

"When using a HETAS registered installer, you do not need to get building control involved as, under the rules of competent person schemes, registered installers are able to self-certificate and sign off an installation," explains Calvin. "This includes second-hand appliance installations – your registered installer will notify the work by issuing a Building Regulation Compliance Certificate, or a Certificate of Compliance.

"But, whether an installer chooses to install a secondhand stove is entirely up to them as responsibility for compliance against Building Regulations and the appropriate British Standards lies solely with them," says Calvin.

"Subsequently, some installers may choose not to fit an appliance that does not meet Ecodesign requirements as the stove will not be future-proof and replacement parts may be difficult to source."

Installing a secondhand log burner yourself is even riskier

Because of the need for compliance, it's even more important that you don't consider installing a secondhand log burner yourself, says Calvin May.

"As it is a legal requirement to notify any solid fuel installation in England and Wales to the relevant Local Authority Building Control (LABC), if you chose to install your secondhand stove yourself, you would need to obtain a Building Regulation Compliance Certificate from your LABC.

"Registered installers are able to self-certify their work but are not able to notify work they did not carry out themselves," he explains. "As such, it is strongly recommended that the installation is carried out by a registered installer to ensure the installation is safe and complies with relevant Building Regulations.

"If you choose to ignore advice and install the secondhand stove yourself, you will need to apply to building control in advance of the work taking place; only those registered on a competent person scheme are able to self-certify," says Calvin.

And, applying after the work has been done comes at a cost he warns. "If you install a stove yourself without applying to building control you will require regularisation, which often incurs a higher cost than applying prior to the work taking place."

Pre-installation advice

In the same way as you would if you were fitting a new log burner in your home, if you do decide to buy and install a second hand log burner, there is best practise to follow.

"A pre-assessment survey should be undertaken to fully understand whether the appliance is suitable and will perform effectively in the chosen location," says Calvin. "A room sizing calculation to work out what size log burner do I need is one of the methods of understanding an appliance’s suitability," he explains.

"It is also important to check if the installation is taking place within a smoke control area (SCA)," he adds. "The burning of unauthorised fuels within a SCA is only allowed when the fuel is burnt in a ‘smoke exempt’ appliance, such as Cleaner Choice appliances which have been verified as meeting this requirement and can be used to burn wood fuel in a SCA."

The risk of not checking whether you live in an SCA area? "Failure to comply with SCA regulations may result in a fine," warns Calvin.

"It is also vital that the user is informed on the correct fuels to use (such as Ready to Burn fuels), how to operate the appliance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and the importance of regular installation servicing and maintenance," advises Calvin.

Secondhand log burner vs new

While the rules do allow purchasing and installation of secondhand log burners, is it worth it or do the risks and potential poor quality outweigh any potential cost benefits?

"Whilst it is possible to install non-Ecodesign stoves, modern appliances should be favoured for installation due to their high efficiency and minimised emissions," says Calvin May. "For example, all HETAS Cleaner Choice stoves have been independently verified as being Ecodesign-compliant and achieving a minimum of 50% improvement on particulate emissions against the current appliance limits set within smoke control areas.

"Using the most appropriate and efficient stoves that your budget allows will ensure you are emitting minimal emissions as you keep your home warm."

It's something the Stove Industry Association (SIA) agrees with too.

"The SIA recommends choosing a new stove," confirms Erica Malkin, communications manager for the SIA.

"The very latest stove models are precision engineered to operate at optimum efficiency and with minimal emissions when used correctly. Under the Ecodesign regulation, buying new means that you do not have to worry about its performance or suitability."

But, with the manufacturing rules around log burners changed, could the rules regarding installation change too?

"The current conditions are for point of manufacture, so unless the conditions of Building Regulations or Ecodesign are amended to encompass any stove sold on the market, secondhand wood burners can still be installed," says Calvin May.

Although that may not always be the case he suggests.

"Government and devolved administrations are continuing to develop their plans on air quality (both indoor and outdoor) and the impact of older or secondhand appliances may be a focus in the future."

Re-thinking your plans to install a second hand log burner? Take a look at these log burner ideas instead and be sure to find out how the best stove fan can help improve your log burner's performance – even when it's a new model.

If you're considering a log burner as an addition to your home, you might be wondering just what's involved. Is installing a log burner possible in any home and how do you decide which one is right for you?

The reality is that it isn't just a case of picking one off the shelf and bringing it home. As well as determining what size log burner you need, you'll also need to take into account matters such as ventilation, flues and finding the right person for installing a log burner.

In this guide to installing a log burner we'll take you through the steps you need to take both to choose the right type and model for your heating needs, as well as getting it up and running safely in line with the necessary guidelines.

Installing a log burner starts with practical considerations

While you may have spent time researching log burner ideas, deciding which one to buy really needs to start with the practical considerations in order to help you understand what's involved with installing a log burner, says Erica Malkin, communications manager for the Stove Industry Association (SIA).

"With such a wide range of stove designs available, ticking off the practical considerations first can help narrow your search. The top two are the size of the room you wish to heat and whether you live in a smoke control area (SCA)."

Why do these both matter? They will determine everything about the type of log burner you choose, how you go about installing a log burner in your home and here's why.

Fuel considerations

Establishing if you live in a Smoke Control Area (SCA) is perhaps the first and most important step to take when installing a log burner.

"Many areas of the UK are covered by Smoke Control Area legislation," explains Erica Malkin, "and in those areas, you can only burn wood if you use a Defra exempt appliance."

So what can and can't you do in an SCA? According to the government website:

"Many parts of the UK are smoke control areas where:you cannot release smoke from a chimney. You can only burn authorised fuel, unless you use an appliance approved by Defra (also known as an ‘exempt appliance’ or ‘Defra approved appliance’).

"In a smoke control area you can only burn fuel on the list of authorised fuels, or any of the following ‘smokeless’ fuels, unless you’re using a Defra approved appliance: anthracite, semi-anthracite, gas, low volatile steam coal."

However, that doesn't mean you can't install a log burner. As long as you buy an EcoDesign stove, that is a Defra approved appliance, burn wood marked with the 'Ready to Burn' certification and avoid burning wet wood, you can enjoy the added warmth one will bring to your home.

Suitable fuel for log burning stoves

Flue vs chimney

With fuel guidelines established, the next practical consideration to take into account is flue vs chimney as one or the other will be required when installing a log burner. Whether you have an existing chimney, or are adding a new flue, there are specific Building Regulations for chimneys, stoves and fireplaces you will have to adhere to.

Making sure your chimney is in good working order is particularly critical in older home renovations, where wear and tear may mean you need to undertake some repair work before it's deemed suitable for a log burner.

And while you can still have a log burner without a chimney, "you'll need to establish whether your property is suitable for installing a flue system," says Erica Malkin.

If you do need to add a flue, "the likelihood is that you won’t need planning permission," says Jon Butterworth, managing director of Arada Stoves. "However this will vary from household to household.

"Specific regulations to consider, include where the external flue is situated compared to other properties, if your home is a listed building or in a designated area, if your area has specific regulations for wood burners, where your external flue is compared to a road etc," advises Jon. "In many cases, planning permission won’t be required but always speak to a professional before carrying out any work.”

And, in all homes, you'll also need to consider log burner ventilation requirements to ensure you meet the necessary building regulations for installing a log burner.

To make sure you get it right, Erica recommends starting your enquiries with a registered SIA retail group member who will be happy to guide you through the whole process. Most will offer a no obligation quote outlining all the work involved.

"This will likely include a survey of the chimney condition and to assess what’s needed and will usually cover the cost of the appliance, the cost of the chimney liner or flue system, the installation and commissioning of the appliance and flue, installing a hearth if required and any remedial work, such as plastering," explains Erica.

Details of members in your area can be found here.

Calculating the size of your log burner

Before installing a log burner you also need to make sure you've chosen the right size. When asking what size log burner do I need, "you need to consider both the physical size of your stove, as well as the heat output it offers to ensure the room is heated efficiently," says Jon Butterworth.

"This will differ depending on the size of the room, how well insulated it is, if you have double glazing, if you have carpet or wood floors – and so on. For example, if you have a well-insulated room with central heating, carpet and double glazing, a 5kW stove should be sufficient," says Jon. "However, in older, draughty homes with single-glazing and wood floors, you may need a 7kW stove.”

So while you may have fallen in love with a particular freestanding log burner idea, it's important not to get too carried away before checking the essentials. “Before purchasing a stove, you should always verify the heat requirement for its intended location," confirms Declan Kingsley-Walsh, managing director of Morsø UK.

"Buying the wrong size stove will prove problematic due to over or under-usage of the appliance, which is potentially more damaging to the stove, flue and the environment in the long run.

"A convector stove will improve heat delivery to secondary rooms compared to a radiant appliance, for example," he adds. "Ultimately though, it depends on the set-up of your home, and how many rooms you want to heat as well as their respective size."

Who should install your log burner?

With strict regulations surrounding the purchasing and installing of log burners, Erica Malkin tells us the SIA always recommends having your stove and flue fitted by an installer that is registered with a recognised solid fuel competent person scheme such as HETAS or OFTEC.

"They will ensure all regulations are complied with," she explains. "Alternatively, if you do not use such an installer, it is still possible to obtain sign-off from Building Control.

"However a registered installer will provide you with a certificate of compliance that shows that the installation complies with the relevant Building Regulations. The certificate provides a record of your installation, and in England and Wales it is used to notify your Local Authority that the work has taken place.

"The information may also be needed for home insurance purposes and will be required should you sell your property in the future," she adds.

Installing your log burner in the right place

If you're wondering where the best place is for installing a log burner, "the good news is there are very few instances where it’s not possible to install a log burner," says Erica Malkin. However, there are a few requirements to take into account depending on if you will be using an existing chimney or installing a new flue.

If the location of your log burning stove is dictated by a chimney, you need to remember that "the minimum chimney height recommended for wood burning and multi fuel appliances is 4.5 m from the top of the appliance to the top of the chimney," says Jon Butterworth.

For log burning stove installations requiring a new flue, there are a few things to consider that will primarily come down to safety and your aesthetic preferences.

"Think about where the flue will exit the building and whether you want it to run internally as an extended feature of the stove, or on the outside of the building," says Jon. "Depending on your room's architectural structure, there are many part options available including various lengths, bends, supports and flashings to connect your stove to a safe termination point (the place at which the flue exits the building's structure)."

Choosing the style and design of your log burner

With such a wide variety of log burning stoves now available, you may be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting which one to install in your home.

"A good starting point can be checking out those models within the clearSkies scheme," says Erica Malkin. "This is a certification scheme that independently verifies a stoves Ecodesign and Defra exemption credentials.

However, from corner log burner ideas to double-sided log burner ideas, there will be a wealth of options available to you when installing a log burner. Declan Kinglsey-Smith offers some advice based on his years of experience working within the field which is don't be too fixed on necessarily matching the style of your log burner to the age of your home.

"It very much comes down to personal choice," says Declan. "Contemporary stoves can complement open-plan, larger and minimalistic spaces, and more traditional models will suit cosier, country-style homes," he says. "However, contemporary styles can sometimes bring a pared-back, Scandinavian aesthetic to a more traditional home, and a traditional model can also bring warmth and soften a more modern space. It's really down to the individual’s preference and what will help heat your home most efficiently.”

FAQs

What are the benefits of installing a log burner?

As well as being the perfect addition to cosy living room ideas or even for including in your bedroom ideas, there are other benefits to installing a log burner, says Declan Kingsley-Smith.

"Adding an additional heat source to your property will certainly cut down on your heating bills and some properties are able to only use wood burning stoves to warm their homes."

They can also be a good addition to rooms where you don't have an existing heat source such as conservatories. Find out if log burners in conservatories could be the solution you need.

What budget do I need for installing a log burner?

We've prepared a comprehensive guide to log burning stove installation costs, as the final amount you need to budget will come down to whether you're installing one using an existing chimney or require a new flue.

Once you've installed your log burner, you'll want to make sure it functions efficiently and lasts. To increase its performance, we recommend investing in the best stove fan which will help to distribute heat more quickly. Knowing how to clean log burner glass will also improve its efficiency and give you the best view of those crackling flames.

The log burner surround ideas you choose will not only have a huge effect on the overall interior design scheme of the room, but they will also frame your stove and ensure it is highlighted properly and receives the attention it deserves.

Not everyone will want the same thing from their log burner ideas. If you are renovating you may well have an existing fire surround that you want to spruce up to house your new wood burning stove, or perhaps you are starting with a totally blank slate.

"Although most practical during the colder months, stoves create an attractive focal point throughout the year," says John Butterworth," director at Arada Stoves. "Stoves now come in a range of sizes and shapes, from contemporary to traditional, so there is a style to suit every home."

We have something for everyone within our carefully-selected round-up of ideas, no matter what your chosen decor style.

Are log burner surround ideas an option?

Some people worry that they won't be able to have a log burning stove at all – usually those with no working chimney. However, fear not because you can have a log burner without a chimney. You will need to install a twin wall chimney flue system though so seek advice from a HETAS registered installer.

1. Inject a little grandeur with a marble surround

Using stone fireplace ideas is a fantastic way to bring a touch of opulence and luxury into any room. Marble has to be one of the most luxurious of all the natural stone varieties and comes in such a huge range of colours and pattern options that is perfect for any kind of interior scheme, from classic to contemporary.

In this traditional living room, a pale white marble, with subtle grey striations, has been used to form the log burner surround – and is the perfect pairing with the ornate wall panelling and classic choice of furniture.

The tiled fireback, laid in a herringbone pattern, adds a little modern touch.

2. Keep it fuss-free with a simple surround

If you are keen to let your log burning stove take centre stage in the room, then you might like to keep your choice of surround on the plainer side and avoid too much detail.

This is an idea that can be created using a range of materials, from natural stone to painted wood, or even a surround constructed from plaster.

This chunky, yet simple, white surround manages to both blend in with the room's scheme at the same time as making an impact – all while allowing the Scandi-style stove, from Arada Stoves, to shine.

3. Skip the surround altogether for a clean finish

There is absolutely nothing in the rulebook to say that a log burning stove has to sit within a surround – and if it is modern living room ideas that are your thing, taking a freestanding approach and skipping the surround altogether can be a great approach. Just remember that you will still require a hearth.

The styling of this little log burner is spot on in this fresh living room scheme. It has been placed on top of a very simple concrete box which is open to allow for log storage – practical and stylish.

4. Achieve a rustic look with exposed brick

If there is anywhere that exposed brick works really well it is when used with rustic living room ideas.

To put this idea into action, you can either strip an existing fire surround of its plaster finish and reveal the brickwork beneath, or, as has been done here, add brick slips to finish off a stripped back wall.

If you plan on using existing brickwork you might find a little repair work is required in terms of the mortar to getting it looking shipshape, and it is a good idea to seal exposed brick too.

The brick surround here has been created using Blend 32, a classic brown-based brick slip blend from The Brick Tile Co.

5. Use your surround to create a colour-drenched space

Colour drenching has become hugely popular in the last year and the ideas you choose for your log burner surround can really help when it comes to the success of this kind of scheme.

Colour drenching, as the name suggests, involves sticking to one colour for almost the entirety of the room – walls, woodwork and even built-in furniture. If you want things to look really dramatic you could even bring your painted ceiling ideas in on the act.

Here, the same rich chocolate shade has been used throughout the space, including for the log burner surround as well as the built-in seating and cabinets either side of the chimney breast.

"We have designed and built so many traditional alcove cupboards surrounding a fireplace and found having a decorative large mirror above the mantlepiece provides a very warm and cosy feel," says Tonie Pepperstreet, designer at Bespoke Carpentry London.

6. Incorporate log storage into your surround

A log burner calls for a good supply of logs if you are going to use it on a regular basis – and this means you will need somewhere to keep a stash close to hand at all times for keeping the fire fuelled.

While there are all kinds of log store ideas you could use both outside and indoors, from sturdy wicker baskets to modern metal log racks, we love the idea of using your surround as a means of housing your firewood.

Here, alcoves have been built into the chimney breast either side of the opening for the stove. The simple timber beam used for the mantle ties the whole look together beautifully.

Shop log storage

7. Sit your log burner within a cosy inglenook

You should seriously consider incorporating a log burner into your inglenook fireplace ideas – they look perfect framed in this way. Inglenooks are basically large openings within the chimney breast that, more often than not, span almost its entire width.

Swapping an open fire for a log burning stove within an inglenook results in less heat loss and tends to be a little more efficient.

Here, a pale brick opening has been topped with a huge oak beam and the whole thing works perfectly with the slate hearth from Melton Stone.

8. Create clean lines with a hole-in-the-wall surround

If you are after modern fireplace ideas then you should know that hole-in-the-wall fireplaces are hugely popular with homeowners looking to create a clean and fresh aesthetic within their homes – and are perfect for everything from Japandi schemes to Modernist.

Here, a modern stove from Arada Stoves has been placed within the crisp opening, while a chunky stone hearth, running the length of the wall, also acts as a hearth.

9. Paint your surround to match your colour scheme

Why not broaden your living room paint ideas a little to incorporate your log burner surround too?

Tying your fireplace in with the rest of the decor will help ensure a cohesive scheme overall but is also a great way to inject more colour, pattern and texture.

"Be bold and add a pop of colour to your living space with a brightly painted stove, or if you have a mantlepiece, use it as an opportunity to display plants, ornaments and personal touches to accessorise the room," suggests Jon Butterworth.

Rather than painting a wooden surround to match the shade on your walls, why not pick up on a shade you have used elsewhere, as has been done here. The deep teal hue has been used for the half-wall panelling as well as being mirrored within the bold botanical wallpaper.

10. Turn your stove surround into a talking point

For the ultimate talking point and to turn your living room fireplace ideas into the central feature of your home, polished marble is your best friend – and if you dare to use it to clad a full-height surround you can be sure of maximum impact.

This beautiful Rainforest Green Marble surround, from Cullifords, features a super sleek built-in log burner and has the added benefit of integrated log storage space too.

11. Coordinate your surround with your furniture

Opting for a wooden surround gives you the chance to bring a touch of warmth into your space – as well as for selecting for some other living room furniture in the same finish. Be sure to think through your fireplace lighting ideas too as they really can help show off the natural grain within timber surrounds.

The design here, from Trade Furniture Company, has been paired with a slimline storage cabinet and would look perfect fitted with a log burner and hearth.

FAQs

Do cast iron surrounds work with log burners?

Cast iron fire surrounds look beautiful in period properties and within traditional interior schemes, but how suitable are they with log burners?

"A cast iron fireplace surround is a great choice to go with a log burner," advises Brian Athey, managing director of heating specialists Renaissance at Home.

“As these surrounds are not combustible, they don’t need as much distance or clearance from the log burner, making them an ideal choice. They also hold heat very well and are very robust.

“We recommend using slate or granite tiles to fill in any gaps around the fireplace," continues Brian. "These materials are easy to clean and maintain, so they're perfect for a woodburning stove."

Log burners are a brilliant way to heat a room fast, plus they add instant warmth and character. If you have been left asking 'what size wood burner do I need?' check out our handy guide.

Log burning stoves are a popular choice when it comes to heating your home. Adding an immediate sense of cosiness, they are great for adding an extra level of warmth during the colder months, or for taking the chill off autumnal evenings when it feels a little too soon to be turning the central heating on.

Their adaptable format means they don't need a fireplace either – although they can be installed within one – so freestanding log burning stoves can be a great option in more than just your living room.

We've rounded up 12 freestanding log burner ideas to show you just how to incorporate one into your interior design plans.

What defines freestanding log burner ideas?

With a vast array of log burner ideas around, it can hard to know exactly what distringuishes a freestanding log burner from other types of log burning stoves.

Jon Butterworth, Director at Arada Stoves explains.

“There’s a great deal of engineering, new technology and testing involved in making today’s wood-burning stoves, and there can be a wide range of options to choose from. A 'freestanding' stove means that it is not installed into a fireplace, but instead will stand on legs or pedestals a few inches above the floor, making it an extremely versatile option."

He adds: "With suitability for many locations and its high efficiency rate, a freestanding stove also releases heat slowly, diffusing it to give an even output throughout the room.”

Freestanding log burner ideas

1. Be bold with your freestanding log burner colour choice

Worried that log burner ideas lean more towards traditional interiors than contemporary ones? Then think again. No longer restricted to black, freestanding log burners are now available in a wide variety of colours designed to suit a vast array of interiors.

This bold yellow freestanding log burner from Arada Stoves is perfect for a home renovation where the aim is to update existing fixtures and fittings in a contemporary way. Providing a stark contrast to the traditional white fireplace, it's an immediate boost of dopamine to your interior.

Or, if like me, you can't install a log burner but love the look, why not consider a bioethanol fireplace or stove instead? I've got my eye on this Arada Stoves Flamingo Solution 5 Hamlet Stove – it's a bright pink colour that would work perfectly in my living room.

2. Create an organically shaped faux fireplace

"Freestanding log burners are more versatile in placement, as they don’t require an existing chimney like traditional fireplaces," says Declan Kingsley-Walsh, MD at Morsø UK. This means you can be a little more creative with your design when deciding where to house them.

While they may not need a fireplace, this doesn't stop you from creating a bespoke one as part of your living room ideas. Instead of installing a traditional surround and mantlepiece, carve an organically shaped niche out of your stud wall, have a smart black slate hearth cut to size and keep to the earthy, organic feel by opting for a stone coloured log burner to contrast with the terracotta coloured.

Leave space on either side to benefit from the fact, "freestanding log burning stoves are also more efficient," says Declan Kingsley-Walsh, "as they radiate heat from all sides and retain more warmth."

3. Choose a freestanding log burner with a large glass frontage

If you're keen to make your freestanding log burner idea the focal point of your living room fireplace ideas, choose a design with a large glass frontage that gives you the best view of your roaring fire when it's in use.

Pair with a sleek vertical flue, black slate hearth and create a warm and cosy feel with dark shades of blue, natural wood flooring and be sure to choose the best log baskets for keeping your fuel supplies close to hand.

Pair these log baskets with your freestanding log burner ideas

4. Make a dining area more cosy with a freestanding log burner

"As well as being popular for their energy efficiency, eco-friendly heating, and ability to reduce energy costs," says Declan Kinglsey-Walsh, "freestanding log burners create a cosy atmosphere, making them ideal for dining rooms, and open-plan spaces, as well as living rooms."

So, if your dining room ideas need a little extra warmth in winter, a freestanding log burner could be the perfect addition – especially if located on an outside wall.

Given it's entirely possible to install a log burner without a chimney by using an external twin wall flue – meaning the pipework to remove smoke and fumes runs outside, rather than inside – this also frees up space for your dining room decor ideas.

5. Or, install a freestanding log burner in the heart of your home

In the same way freestanding log burner ideas work in dining rooms, they can also complete your kitchen diner ideas, adding extra heat to the very heart of your home.

Worried about the thought of safety with fire in a zone where there are lots of electrical appliances? Don't be say the experts. "Freestanding stoves are easier to install, clean, and maintain, with most offering enclosed designs that enhance safety by preventing sparks from escaping," says Declan Kingsley-Wash.

However, with building regulations in place regarding installing a log burner, it's important to pay attention to their positioning, wherever you decide to feature one.

“Freestanding stoves can be installed almost anywhere in the home," confirms Jon Butterworth, "but you will need to consider its proximity to other surfaces and objects in the room before going ahead.

"Building regulations for chimneys, stoves and fireplaces stipulate strict minimum distances between a stove and its surroundings to reduce the risk of household fires and therefore protect property and its inhabitants. Each individual stove will come with pre-approved measurements that your fitter will refer to when recommending the right design for your home setting.”

7. Make use of an empty alcove

Although it can be tempting to default to filling empty alcoves with bespoke storage solutions, if you don't need the extra cupboards, why not consider a freestanding log burner idea instead?

For example, if you're considering opening up the back of your home to add a rear extension idea, instead of choosing a fully open-plan scheme, create a transition space between each zone. Use archways to subtly define each space and add a freestanding log burner in the middle section to warm both sides of the room.

Cover the wall behind with brick slips (matching the exterior of your home if appropriate) and it will also serve as a story-telling tool, showing how your home has evolved over time.

8. Comission a bespoke hearth with in-built log store

If modern interior trends form the backbone of your self-build ideas, there's no reason why a freestanding log burner can't form part of your plans. Without the restrictions of a fireplace, you're even free to elevate them off the floor.

A long sleek stone shelf provides the perfect showcase for this bronze coloured log burner and creates a handy log store in the process. An on-trend black panelled wall further defines the space, while also creating the best backdrop for roaring flames at night.

Concerned a log burner might not be in line with your eco-home ideas? Don't be says Declan Kinglsey-Walsh.

"There are plenty of misconceptions surrounding wood burning stoves and their effect on the environment, but it is important to note that a wood burner can offer a low carbon, low emission, renewable and sustainable way to stay warm in the colder months," he says.

"In fact, according to the Stove Industry Alliance, “modern Ecodesign compliant stoves burning dry wood make up a tiny fraction of UK particulate matter emissions – less than 0.3%. Using dry wood fuel is both sustainable and renewable; wood logs have the lowest carbon emissions factor of any domestic heating fuel.”

9. Install a log burner into a traditional fireplace setting

If you've been restoring a fireplace during your home renovation, but want to replace your open fireplace with something else, freestanding log burners are the perfect solution.

"These stoves are equally at home inside a red-bricked chimney breast of a cosy cottage or glowing within the grand fireplace of a country home," says Jon Butterworth. "Either way, they have an abundance of charm and character,” that makes them suitable in traditional settings.

Only just embarking on your scheme? Be sure to follow the advice in opening up a fireplace and tiling a fireplace.

10. Opt for a Scandi inspired corner log burner

Corner log burner ideas are perfect for adding heat without taking up too much room, or dominating your feature wall ideas. They can also be ideal if your modern extension ideas feature lots of windows or glass, meaning you have less available wall space from the start.

This Scandi inspired living room featuring a slim, corner log burner adds an immediate perception of warmth to the space, despite the lighter colour scheme. Although when it comes down to which design works best, it's primarily down to personal choice say the experts.

"Contemporary stoves tend to complement open-plan, larger and minimalistic spaces, whereas more traditional models tend to suit cosier, country-style homes," says Declan Kingsley-Smith.

"However, on the flip side to this, contemporary styles can sometimes bring a pared-back, Scandinavian aesthetic to a more traditional home, and a traditional model can also bring warmth and soften a more modern space," he adds, "so it’s really down to the individual’s preference."

11. Choose a glass hearth for your freestanding log burner ideas

Although fireplace hearth ideas tend to feature stone, slate or tiles, freestanding log burners which have the benefit of not needing a fireplace, can also be placed on a glass hearth plate. It was the option I chose when installing one in my previous home as it added an additional modern touch to the contemporary design of the log burner.

And while you can't just pop it on any piece of glass, they do come in clear, tinted and coloured options giving you plenty of choice when it comes to choosing the best option for your interior.

Easy to clean and hard-wearing, if you've invested heavily in your flooring ideas, clear glass will also give you full sight of the finish.

Hearth and bench options for your freestanding log burner ideas

12. Keep it cosy with a traditional fireplace and mantle

Of course, nothing beats the feeling of cosying up in front of a traditional roaring fire, so if cosy and classic is more your aesthetic than clean and contemporary, pull up a chair as a freestanding log burner idea can still be for you.

Surrounded by a rustic brick fireplace, solid wooden mantlepiece and sturdy slate heart, this pale grey stove fits in perfectly with the rest of the room, which has been lovingly restored to focus on traditional features such as wooden beams.

Wondering what to do in summer when you won't be using it for heat? Make sure you make the most of your mantle with these mantlepiece ideas, and fill up your fireplace with freshly cut garden flowers and plants until the winter sets in.

FAQs

What are the benefits of a log burner vs a log burning fireplace?

"Log burners are compact, efficient and can offer long burn times," says Jon Butterworth. "Our Farringdon range for example, comes in small, medium and large sizes, providing a stylish and contemporary freestanding option for heating the home.

"Combining design with innovative technology, this range delivers outstanding all-round performance and long burn times. With the ability to burn at low levels for more than 10 hours, log burners can offer exceptional controllability alongside a large fire viewing glass.”

They are a clean and safe way of heating your home.

How can I make sure I'm getting the best heat from my log burner?

If you haven't already got one, we recommend you invest in a stove fan to ensure the heat from your log burner is reaching as far and wide as it possibly can.

With options to suit most requirements, check out our guide to the best stove fans to find a model that's right for you.

Wondering where else in your home could benefit from the addition of a freestanding log burner idea? Take a look at whether log burners in conservatories are a good option or not, and find out what size log burner you need to heat your room of choice.

If you've ever considered mounting a TV above a fireplace as part of your fireplace ideas, the chances are you'll have been met with mixed reactions. Some people say absolutely not, others will say it's fine. So why is it that we can't seem to agree on whether it should be done or not?

It's understandable that placing a TV above any source of heat raises some concerns, but are there ways of doing it safely and if so, how?

We asked TV, fireplace and building experts to share their advice on whether you can, or indeed you should, mount a TV above your fireplace. As expected, it's a mixed response but it seems there are some key rules to follow if you do decide to go ahead with your plan.

Mounting a tv above a fireplace may not work with tall fireplaces

Although the safety implications of having your TV above the fireplace will be covered in this article, you may find the decision has already been made for you if your fireplace opening is particularly tall.

“The recommended height for mounting a TV on a wall is generally at eye level when seated," says Kevin Walmsley, TV expert at AO.com. "This is roughly around 42-50 inches from the floor to the centre of the screen.

"By mounting your TV above a fireplace, this sometimes skews the angle as you need to place the TV higher," he says, "which can make viewing uncomfortable for prolonged periods.”

It's something even fireplace manufacturers agree with.

"Generally, the bottom of the TV should be at eye level when seated," adds Brian Athey, managing director of fireplace and heating retailer, Renaissance at Home. "If the TV needs to be mounted lower due to the fireplace, it could cause neck strain and discomfort. It's important to find a balance between aesthetics and ergonomics."

But if your fireplace height passes the test, or you're creating the idea from scratch, what else is there to be aware of if you are still keen on mounting a tv above a fireplace?

Mounting a TV above a fireplace: Picking the right TV and fireplace matters

If you're determined your living room design will include mounting a TV above the fireplace, there are key points to take into account before you make any expensive purchases.

"It’s important to take into consideration factors like heat output, TV size, and the specific design of both the fireplace and the TV," says Brian Athey. The type of fire you want to install will have a huge bearing on whether your media wall ideas need adjusting.

But, it's not just about the type of fireplace either. "Be careful when it comes to choosing your television too," says Brian Athey. "Choose a TV with good heat tolerance. Some televisions are designed to withstand higher temperatures, so consider this when purchasing."

Type of fire

"Electric and gas fireplaces with proper heat management are generally safer, but caution is still necessary," says Francis Fernando, managing director of Lion and Leinster Property and Building Services Ltd.

If you are on mains gas and want to install a fireplace, "gas fireplaces with glass fronts, are the best option due to their controlled heat output," says Brian Athey. Electric fires with front facing heaters or bioethanol fireplaces are also great options as neither require a chimney or flue for the heat to rise up into.

However, if you're currently dreaming of log burning stoves, and wondering can you put a tv above a log-burner, you may need to reassess your choices, as without the right protection, it's not considered the best option.

Consider these bioethanol stoves or electric fires for your living room

Chimney breast suitability

"Chimney breasts often have uneven surfaces and may lack the necessary structural support for mounting a TV," says Francis Fernando.

"Heat conduction through the chimney can damage the TV if proper insulation isn't in place. Running cables through a chimney breast can also be tricky," he adds, "and will likely require professional installation."

"Weight and structural integrity are the primary concerns," confirms Brian Athey. "Chimney breasts may not be able to support the weight of a TV, especially if it's a large model so make sure it’s structurally sound before mounting."

Mounting a TV above a fireplace: Three essential steps

If you've already mounted your TV above your fireplace and did so without taking any preventative measures, you may now be wondering if there's anything you should have done. The answer is yes, and here's why.

“While many people mount their TV above their fireplace with no protection, over time your TV will be damaged from the heat," advises Andy Simms, general building expert at MyBuilder.com.

"Heat from the fireplace can wear away at sensitive electronics in your TV over time," explains Kevin Walmsley, meaning that while you may have taken the correct measures in terms of using the right fixings on the wall, if you haven't added in heat prevention measures, your TV may not last as long as you'd hoped.

The good news is, there are solutions to mounting a TV above a fireplace without risking the lifespan or condition of your TV.

1. Use a heat shield and/or mantle

There are two main steps you can take to protect your TV when mounting it above a fireplace. These can be done either independently or together, depending on the look you are hoping to achieve with your fireplace ideas.

Modern fireplace ideas, for example, may call for a more streamline finish, with your fireplace mounted flush inside a wall, whereas a more traditional look can involve a mantle that serves not only an aesthetic but also a safety purpose.

"If you’re keen to place your TV above your fireplace, then it would be wise to protect it from the heat by using a non-combustible mantle or a heat shield," says Kevin Walmsley. "Both of these options will help to create a buffer between your TV and fire."

"Heat shields come in various forms, such as metal deflectors, fire-resistant tiles, or glass barriers," explains Francis Fernando. "They are usually installed above the fireplace to block heat from rising toward the TV.

"However, some integrate with the mantel, while others are fitted behind or around the TV mount to protect it from heat," he adds. Always check with your fireplace installer which type they would recommend for your project.

Other decorative items such as fireplace hoods may also be an option depending on the style of your fire.

2. Ensure adequate ventilation

It's also important to ensure there is proper ventilation around the TV in order to remove heat and smoke effectively. Providing sufficient space for air to circulate around the TV is also necessary with or without a fireplace below it, as it can also get hot without the addition of heat from your fire.

If you are recessing your TV in the wall above a fireplace, you'll also need to make sure it doesn't bring the back of the TV too close to the flue as this can exacerbate any of the issues associated with mixing heat and TVs together.

Other measures you can take to reduce the impact of heat on your TV include, "mounting the TV about 12 inches above the mantel and a few feet from the fireplace," says Andy Simms.

"Likewise mounting it on a TV bracket with an extendable arm so you can move away from the wall when the fire is on would help. However, bear in mind that because of the distance from the fireplace, you might need higher ceilings in order to install a larger TVs.”

This Bontec TV Wall Bracket with Extra Long Articulated Arm from Amazon could be an option if you want to bring your TV away from a fire when in use. I've got a similar version in my home, and while my TV isn't mounted above a fireplace, it's great for turning the TV to face certain favourite seating spots.

3. Use the right fixings and tools

Mounting a TV on any surface requires the right tools and fixings, and this is even more paramount if you are fixing one to a chimney breast above a fireplace. "Use a mount rated for your TV's weight," says Francis Fernando, "and ensure it can tilt downward for better viewing. Mount into studs or masonry, not drywall."

"If you’re in any doubt at all, consult a professional installer before starting the job," says Brian Athey.

On the whole, it would seem mounting a TV above a fireplace can be done in some instances, but isn't without its pros and cons.

"A well-placed television mounted above a fireplace can create a focal point in a room, but if you get it wrong it can throw off the whole feel of the space," says Brian Athey.

"A wall-mounted TV can free up space making it the ideal option if floor space is tight, but if not properly protected, the TV can be damaged by heat — which is a pretty hefty price to pay."

“While placing your TV above a fireplace can save you lounge space," agrees Kevin Walmsley, "ultimately the cons outweigh the pros for this practice. Unfortunately, your TV can face a shorter lifespan due to heat exposure and the viewing angle may be impractical and uncomfortable for many.”

Instead of mounting a TV above your fireplace, why not consider these other chimney breast ideas instead, or if you are considering removing your fire completely, find out everything you need to know about gas fire removal — leaving you safe in the knowledge that you can have a TV above your fireplace after all.

A couple made a charming discovery inside their fireplace after finding a previous owner had left a note detailing how much he bought the house for over 50 years ago.

Kathryn Stutely, 50, and her partner Neil found the note in their home in Wiltshire they bought for £292,000 in 2019 as they were clearing out the old fireplace while renovating the home.

They had initially started working on their living room fireplace idea to see if they could install a log burner in the space.

Discovered during fireplace renovation

The couple said they found the note while they were removing a fireplace surround.

Kathryn said: "When we moved in there was a not very pretty fireplace where someone had clearly once had a gas fire or something. It was empty, so we decided to do something with it – maybe to put a wood burner or something in there.

"We took the surround off initially and then realised that we needed to actually dig out the fireplace a bit more. So a few days later we started taking the actual bricks out.

"Amongst all the rubble though there was a weird bit of paper that had been folded up many, many times into basically a small cube. I couldn't read it at first because I didn't have my glasses on, but when I unfolded it I noticed there was clearly something written on it.

"I gave it to my other half to read, and he read it out loud. That's when we realised what it was. I was glad I'd bothered to unfold it – otherwise, I'd have just thrown it away like the rest of the rubble."

Note reveals how much the home was bought for

The note showed how much house prices have risen over the years as the recently bought £292,000 home was claimed to be bought by the previous owner on just a £3,000 mortgage. 

The note in the fireplace said: "To who may be interested. This fireplace was bricked up by me on September 1971. I have just bought this house on mortgage for £3,000 with a deposit of £300 and repayments of £5.50 per week + £80 solicitors fees.

"My wage at present is 65p per hour and I go to a Sunday market to make a few [indistinct] aged 37 years. Hope you find this interesting C.Pearce".

The couple discovered the previous owner was Eugene Pearce who passed away in 2000, aged 66, but the couple did get in touch with Eugene's granddaughter to let her know they found the letter.

Couple have also been leaving their own notes

You might think finding a note whilst doing a renovation is an odd discovery, but it turns out the couple were actually in the process of doing this themselves.

Kathryn revealed: "As we've been doing the house up, we've been leaving notes around too – so if anyone then takes down our stud walls they'll find our messages. So it was lovely to find that someone else had already done it."

So you never know what you might discover in your next or current home's walls.

Empty fireplace ideas are really sought-after by many homeowners, keen to create a focal point in their room or make the most of an existing opening without the trouble or expense of installing a real fire.

While some of the cosiest fireplace ideas feature roaring flames and crackling logs, there is a degree of maintenance involved with having a real fire. Ashes need to be regularly cleared out, the chimney needs to be swept and there are a range of fire accessories that go hand-in-hand with fires too, such as pokers and fire guards. 

It is mainly for these reasons that many homeowners choose to fill their fireplaces with alternatives and there are plenty of beautiful ways to do this that result in a super stylish fireplace that commands attention and adds lots of character — all without any upkeep requirements at all. 

We have pulled together a whole range of great ways to use your fireplace, from those that still feature flickering flames to ideas that add a striking point of focus — there is sure to be something to spark your interest. 

Empty fireplace ideas that still kick out heat

Before getting started it is useful to bear in mind that shunning a real fire in your fireplace need not mean giving up on the idea of having something in there that gives off warmth.

Many alternatives to real fires require no maintenance and can easily be installed without any professional input. You might like to consider an electric fire, or perhaps a really contemporary style of bioethanol fire — both of which will emit a good amount of heat into the room with very little fuss. 

1. Use your fireplace as a display case

Both modern fireplace ideas as well as those more traditional in design can be used to display all kinds of objects or to store items stylishly. From sculptures, to collections of decorative objects, artwork or books and magazines, an empty fireplace can make the perfect spot to show them off.

In this 1970s home, the striking timber-clad fireplace has been used to house pretty glassware and a stack of firewood to be used in the open fire elsewhere in the property. Painting the inside of the fireplace opening a dramatic slate-grey really draws the eye to the feature. 

2. Pack it full of twinkling candles

One of the prettiest ways to fill an empty fireplace is to cluster a range of candles here. While they look good unlit, once the sun sets, a beautifully cosy, twinkling effect can be created once they are all burning — with no need for a chimney.

This gorgeous fire surround has been finished using stunning blue and white tiles from CTD and one of the best fireplace hearth ideas we've seen is to match the tiles used on the surround to those on the hearth. 

3. Give your fireplace an eye-catching lick of paint

An empty fireplace need not be boring — with the right treatment they can actually be just as much of a focal point as those fitted with open fires or log burning stoves. One of the best ways to really bring a redundant fireplace to life is by painting the inside of the opening — either in a shade that heavily contrasts with the rest of the colour scheme in the room or by getting creative with paint effects. 

Here, diagonal candy-cane style stripes have been painted on, giving the whole area a greater sense of space and ensuring the room has a strong focal point.

4. Enjoy the warmth of a bioethanol fireplace

An increasing number of people now choose to fit bioethanol fireplaces and it isn't hard to see why. "There is no smoke, no particulates and no carbon monoxide, meaning that it does less damage to air quality use," explains expert in sustainable building methods and energy efficiency in residential homes Tim Pullen. "The CO2 emitted is the same CO2 that was absorbed by the plants used to make the bioethanol, plants that took months to grow."

There is also no need for a chimney or flue and yet they still give out heat — typically around 3kW. 

Here, the Ascot Lux by DecoFlame, from Bioethanol-fireplace.co.ukhas been fitted. It gives out approx. 2.4kW of heat and costs from £1,529.

5. Let the character of a cast iron fireplace shine

During the Victorian and Edwardian eras, cast iron combination fireplaces were really popular. They are complete fireplaces, all-in-one. Some come with tiled cheeks and a mantle, while others can sit behind a surround meaning you incorporate your own mantlepiece ideas. 

Due to their charming good looks, there really is no need to fit them with a working fire — in fact you could simply track one down at a reclamation yard and fix it into your wall for instant character. 

6. Use an old fireplace to house your cooker

A really popular way to use now redundant fireplaces is to use the space left behind to install a cooker — and they look particularly good when fitted with a traditional range or range-style cooker. 

If you are citing an electric cooker within the old opening, things should be pretty straightforward and while it is also possible to locate gas cookers here, do consult with a gas safe engineer when it comes to installing it. Don't assume that you can fit ducting for your extractor hood into the old chimney either — again, ask for professional advice. 

7. Kit out a contemporary home with a fierce focal point

Fitting a new fireplace presents you with a brilliant opportunity to use your chimney breast ideas to pack maximum impact to the overall interior design scheme of the room. In period renovations, don't be afraid to install something highly modern – the juxtaposition between the old and new works so well. 

In this renovated and remodelled 1970s house, a reassuringly chunky slate fire surround has been fitted into a wall finished with warm, timber strip cladding. Using polished concrete flooring as a backdrop allows the whole set up to sing. 

8. Take a two-in-one approach to your fireplace

If you have a fairly sizeable chimney breast to work with you might like to consider using it for both a log burning stove or some open fireplace ideas, as well as somewhere to store all the firewood you will be needing to fuel the fire. 

Here, a wood burning stove sits in the centre of the chimney breast, while alcoves have been carved out to either side in which to stack a good amount of logs and kindling. 

9. Pair a traditional surround with a modern insert

Period marble fire surrounds, as well as those crafted from solid wood, add a sense of grandeur and luxury to a room — and are perfect for those after living room fireplace ideas. However, a really great idea is to fill them with something more modern in style in order to fully show both elements off.

In this fresh living room scheme, a classic marble fire surround in a soft, creamy shade has been paired with a pale grey timber insert before being filled with candles. 

10. Let the fire surround itself do the talking

In some cases, there is absolutely no need to fill an empty fireplace with anything at all — you can just allow the fire surround itself to shine. This is a particularly good idea where the fire surround ideas you are working with feature lots of detail or are made from a material that is highly patterned. 

Here, the stunning marble fire surround features a great deal of natural striations and variations in tone meaning it was best not to detract from its intrinsic beauty by filling the opening with anything overly distracting. 

11. Display your prized possessions

In some cases, the best course of action is to create a clean and crisp opening around your existing fireplace before placing just one single item within it in order for it to gain maximum attention. 

In this renovated farmhouse, the owners have cleverly combined character and contemporary details throughout at the same time as being bold with their colour choices. Their stylish selection of decorative objects can fully be appreciated within the simple openings that have been created within the old chimney breast. 

12. Stack logs stylishly in the opening

Using an empty fireplace to artistically stack firewood is a really popular idea at present. Even if you will never have any need for the wood itself, there is something warming and welcoming about a stack of logs.

If you like the idea of creating a little cabin chic in your home, use clean cut logs and stack them to at least midway up the opening — filled to the brim has the most impact, although if you have decided to paint the inside of the opening in a shade that will complement the rest of your room scheme, as has been done here, then you may well like to leave a little exposed. 

FAQs

With the right open fireplace ideas you can create a stunning focal point that instantly adds character to any area of the home, whether you are living in a period property or a brand new modern house. 

We've been busy tracking down beautiful fireplace ideas to provide you with plenty of inspiration, whether you have discovered a disused fireplace opening that has been boarded up while renovating, or are building from scratch and want to ensure your new home feels warm and welcoming. 

We also have lots of ideas for homeowners who prefer the idea of using their open fireplace to house a stove of some type, which can seem like a more energy efficient way of introducing a secondary heat source into a room. 

Are open fireplace ideas right for you?

While the sight of a roaring open fire is hard to beat in terms of the charm and warmth it brings to a room, open fires are not for everyone. In fact, for many people, the choice tends to come down to open fire vs log burner, or even an alternative such as gas fire, electric or bioethanol. 

"In terms of energy efficiency, a wood burning stove is likely to be better than 65% efficient, while an open fire is 30% efficient at best," explains expert in sustainable building methods and energy efficiency Tim Pullen. "The efficiency of an open fire also needs to factor in its effect on the airtightness of a home.  In a room 5m x 5m x 2.4m, insulated to Building Regulations' standard, including airtightness, the peak heat demand for that room will be a little over 1.2kW. Add an open fireplace and the airtightness in that room plummets and the peak heat demand rises to 2.9kW."

You do need to take this into account when deciding what kind of open fireplace ideas will suit you.

1. Restore what you have

If you are lucky enough to find an original fireplace when renovating a house then you should do all you can to restore it. Restoring a fireplace is usually much cheaper than buying an entirely new one but, more importantly, it is a fantastic way of adding a sense of authenticity and history to your home — a nod to its past.

In this beautiful house, a renovated period farmhouse that once served as an isolation hospital, where original feature were missing or beyond repair, the owners spent a lot of time scouring salvage yards for suitable replacements. 

2. Take a modern approach to the arch

Although arched fireplaces are often seen in traditional designs, they can also make fantastic modern fireplace ideas — in fact, with their gentle curves they can provide a nice contrast to very sleek, minimalist spaces, softening the whole look beautifully. 

This fresh, all-white living room manages to feel welcoming and snug thanks to the fact that there are plenty of rounded features, including the alcoves, furniture and, of course, the fireplace design. 

3. Go grand with chunky stone

Stone fireplace ideas suit all kinds of houses, from very traditional and grand properties to those aiming for a ski lodge feel. That said, there is no reason why they can't fit in with contemporary schemes too with the right approach.  

In this room, however, the gorgeous chunky creamy-coloured stone fireplace, with matching hearth, exudes charm, warmth and period character and is perfectly matched to the column radiators and elegant sash windows that also grace the space. 

4. Use stone in a modern way

Sticking with the stone fireplace theme, there are some brilliant ways to use stone in a way that looks fresh and modern — and a million miles apart from those intricately-carved designs that are often seen gracing period properties. 

Stick to clean lines and keep things fuss free for a fresh, pared-back look. Here, the simple near-white stone surround and hearth have been paired with split face stone tiles used to line the fire opening ensuring the final look is one that manages to feel full of texture and interest without being overly fussy. The hidden lighting adds even more depth.

5. Keep brick exposed for a rustic look

The warmth and texture of brick fireplace ideas can really add so much to a room, injecting it with a slightly rustic, country cosy feel. 

There are actually many different ways to create a brick fireplace. In some cases you may just be able to strip away the plasterwork of your existing chimney breast and clean up the bricks beneath. Brick slips are an easy way to make-over a chimney breast or surround or you might like to start from scratch. 

In this example, the entire fireplace has been constructed from rich brown bricks, while a reassuringly solid oak mantle tops the whole thing off. 

6. Create a warm feeling in the bathroom

Fireplaces in bathrooms instantly add a sense of warmth — even when they are not lit. In many renovations of period properties, it is common to find fireplaces in bathrooms. Original fireplaces in bathrooms also crop up where a bedroom has been converted into a bathroom — often the case where there is no first floor bathroom, making it necessary to sacrifice a bedroom to make way for one. 

The first floor of this Edwardian house was reorganised as part of its renovation to create a new family bathroom — the rolltop bath and black brassware sit really well with the original old fireplace.  

7. Fill an empty fireplace with an electric stove

If the thought of clearing out ash, cleaning the glass of stove doors or having to buy logs or fuel for a real fire don't appeal, you might like to consider filling an open fireplace with an electric stove instead. 

Here, the large fireplace opening has been painted an inky shade of blue all over while a small 1500W electric stove from VonHaus provides a low maintenance, portable heat source. 

8. Incorporate some log storage into your design

Log store ideas don't have to be reserved for outside. Keep firewood close to hand and stacked in a neat and tidy way as well as turning it into a bit of a feature by including somewhere to store it within your open fireplace design. 

Here, the hole-in-the-wall fireplace sits above a useful nook that makes the perfect place to keep logs or kindling warm, dry and ready for use. Note too how the alcoves to either side of the chimney breast have been used to place handy shelves. 

9. Cut down on maintenance with a smart fire

Those keen to avoid the maintenance of a real fire can still enjoy flickering flames and a good heat output in their fireplace — as well as easy control over the whole set up. 

This smart fire might not be fuelled by logs but it still a great focal point. With a heat output of up to 1.5kW, the Opulus 16" from Charlton & Jenrick Ltd features realistic flames along with a whole host of other extras. Shown here with the Beckford Limestone Surround, the woodland log set, with pulsating log lights, creates an eye catching feature. In fact there are 16 different colour options each available in five mood settings — all of which can be controlled using an app, which also allows you to turn on a crackle sound effect. 

10. Pair a traditional surround with a modern stove

Sometimes a complete contrast in styles can work really well — highlighting each feature due to the juxtaposition. This is particularly true when it comes to fire surrounds and the fire that sits within them. 

Here, an original Edwardian fireplace has been restored and fitted with a modern log burning stove. The result is that the details of the decorative surround remain the stars of the show, while the pared-back and refined design of the stove sit in crisp contrast.

11. Match a cast iron all-in-one design with a simple surround

Antique cast iron combination fireplaces are complete fireplaces, all-in-one. While no separate surround is always required, it can be if you wish. Some come complete with tiled cheeks and a mantle, while others, such as this one can sit happily behind a surround and can incorporate your own mantlepiece ideas. 

While it is a real treat to find an original one ready to be enjoyed in an old house, it is also possible to find many restored antiques and replicas if your's is missing. 

12. Line your opening with stone tiles

The materials that you choose to create your fireplace back panel ideas, or to line your opening with, will have a huge effect on the final appearance of the whole feature. 

Split face stone tiles are a brilliant option, adding plenty of texture and really drawing the eye towards your fireplace. Split face tiles come in all kinds of colours and finishes, from those with a little sparkle to slate versions that add a good dramatic finish. 

Here, the Portway Arundel Deluxe Wood Burning Multifuel Ecodesign Stove from Direct Stoves is shown in an opening that has been lined with creamy-coloured stone.  

13. Inject contemporary style by going full width

An open fire that spans the entire width of the chimney breast will really pack a visual punch and is perfect for those after contemporary chimney breast ideas with a difference. 

In this living room, the Luminosa 150 from Charlton & Jenrick Ltd has been installed. This is an electric fire that it is possible to install in three aspects, making it ideal for a media wall, feature wall or dividing wall.

14. Use a dainty all-in-one design as a focal point

Cast iron combination fireplaces were common during the Edwardian era. Larger, more elaborate designs tended to be reserved for ground floor, more 'public' rooms, such as the living or dining rooms, while bedrooms were often fitted with smaller models. 

In this Edwardian renovation project, the original fireplaces have been restored wherever possible — and this dainty little design makes the perfect addition to the new bathroom.  

15. Use an empty fireplace as a decorative feature

After some alternatives to fireplaces? There is no reason why a fireplace has to be fitted with a fire at all. In fact, homeowners are getting more and more adventurous with how they use empty fireplaces, turning these unused spaces into eye-catching features.

Here, the elegant arched former fireplace has been painted in diagonal candy stripes and is now used to house a chunky wooden storage chest. 

16. Strip back a stone fireplace to its former glory

Stone fireplaces provide an instant hit of grandeur and importance to a room and if you are lucky enough to have one already in place in your renovation project, or happen to find one lurking beneath old plaster or paintwork, then bringing it back to its former glory will be well worth it. 

In the living room of this old cottage, the original Bath stone fire surround was covered up. The owners carefully stripped it back and it now forms the focal point of the room. A slate hearth and chunky wood burning stove complete the look. 

If you are on the hunt for some beautiful and original fireplace back panel ideas to top off your interior scheme in style then you have come to exactly the right place. 

Your choice of fireplace ideas can transform a room into a space that feels instantly warm and homey and bursting with character, but to work well, each and every section that makes up the design as a whole needs to be given some careful thought. 

Pairing the wrong style of fireplace back panel with your mantel or overall decoration scheme can result in a final look that just doesn't work or that can become a focal point for all the wrong reasons. Take a look at our collection of inspiration to start getting a good idea of what will (and won't) work for you. 

Why are fireplace back panel ideas important?

To understand why you need to give some consideration to your fireplace back panel it is first important to get to grips with exactly what they are.

"A fireplace back panel is basically a panel which fills the space between the fireplace opening and the fireplace surround," explains Joanna Humphreys, fire and stove specialist at Direct Fireplaces. "Whilst it doesn’t necessarily ‘do’ anything, it’s an integral part in the overall look and feel of a fire.

"Without a fireplace back panel in place, you’d simply see the bare wall between the fireplace opening and the fireplace surround — not exactly a sophisticated look."

However, you might also see them referred to as 'slips' and these are the individual sections used to form a back panel like those described above. 

There are different ways that fireplace back panels are supplied. Sometimes they come as part of package that includes the surround, hearth, mantel and even the insert. However, they can also be bought as stand-alone products which is perfect for those restoring a fireplace. 

It is also worth noting that, in some cases, fireplace back panels are referred to in relation to the flat panel of material that sits behind the fire or stove to protect the wall. 

1. Go for a smart and simple back panel

Co-ordinating your back panel with your surround, mantel and fireplace hearth, either by using matching materials or those of the same colour, is the ideal way to create a very fresh and modern look — perfect for those after a more minimalist finish. 

Here, a smart white fireplace sits beautifully against the grey of the living room walls, with the slim rim that runs between the surround and back panel mirroring this shade. 

2. Take a modern approach with monochrome

Even very simple, timeless and classic fireplaces can still slot seamlessly into more modern décor schemes with the right choice of fireplace back panel and mantelpiece ideas. 

Here, a very classically styled marble surround has been teamed with a sleek, black back panel for a beautifully simple yet welcoming finish that could easily withstand a whole range of interior decoration schemes should the homeowners change their minds at some point in the future. 

3. Select eye-catching tiles for added interest

Using tiled fireplace ideas for your back panels is the ideal way to inject some of your own personality into your fireplace and your decoration scheme as a whole, leaving you free to take a more pared-back and neutral approach elsewhere. 

While the walls of this living room have been painted a subtle mushroom shade, the choice of fireplace, from Direct Fireplaces, ensures the whole space is full of character and individuality. 

4. Boost the glow with hidden lighting

Don't forget to spend time developing your fireplace lighting at the same time as thinking through the style of back panel, surround and so on — they have the potential to really bring the whole feature to life. 

The Opulus 16” from Charlton & Jenrick Ltd is an electric all-in-one fire that can be controlled via an app, from which you can select an optional crackle sound effect,
pulsating log lights and 16 colour options. In addition, there is the option to add on lengths of LED lighting strips, controlled from the fire's handset, in a palette of 13 colours that can be set separately to the flame and fuel bed effects.

5. Go grand with elegant stone

If you are after something elegant, sophisticated and timeless then natural stone is most certainly the way to go. All kinds of stone fireplace ideas are possible, from those incorporating solid chunks of hefty limestone and slate to those that mix-and-match materials such as timber and marble. 

Here, the elegant proportions of the room have been well matched with the simple yet powerful design of the fireplace, featuring granite back panels and a decorative yet subtle white surround. 

6. Get a classic stone model for less

If you like the idea of a stone fireplace but are worried about the associated costs, there is another option that will still result in a beautiful and classic finish. 

The Classic Fireplace by Haddonstone, from their Robert A.M. Stern Collection, is made from their TecLite material. It is more lightweght and affordable than real stone making it easy to handle and install.  

7. Tie your back panel in with your living room décor

For a pleasingly cohesive look do consider how your fireplace back panel will sit alongside the rest of your living room design scheme — both in material and colour. Opting for a back panel shade that sits in contrast with the surround yet is echoed elsewhere in the room, such as on walls or built-in joinery is a fantastic idea. 

In this living room, the surround has been fitted around the crisp, plastered opening of the fireplace, which has taken the place of any back panels. 

8. Add individual character to modern spaces

In contemporary spaces, particularly those that are largely open plan, it can sometimes be a struggle to inject a sense of warmth and a welcoming feel — but using some modern fireplace ideas is the ideal way to do this.

Of course with the right fireplace back panel, there is no reason why a fireplace need detract from the sleek, clean lines of a modern interior scheme — this extension and renovation project of a 1970s house is proof of that. 

Flanked by cedar cladding, the stunning black surround and mantle also features a little metallic glimmer in the form of the bronze lower header section. 

9. Love the luxury look with marble panels

Marble touches are known for the fact that they instantly conjure up a sense of luxury and opulence, be that in the form of floor tiles, worktops or within fireplace design. 

Within this striking cream and gold interior scheme, the choice of the elegant marble fireplace back panel is key to ensuring the success of the whole look, drawing together the various elements of the sophisticated finish. 

10. Finish off your fireplace with stylish tiles

There are various ways of protecting the wall directly behind your fire or stove and one particularly popular method is to use decorative tiles — this works particularly well in openings that have been fitted with a stove of some sort as they tend to remain cleaner and more visible than if you were to fill the opening with an open fire. 

Here, the Didsbury 5 stove from Direct Stoves sits within an opening lined with classy black and grey patterned tiles which tie in perfectly with the white stone surround and slate hearth. 

11. Pair fresh white with rustic exposed brick

Using brick fireplace ideas is the perfect way to add a rustic, warm touch to your home and really can bring a fireplace to life. They also work very well with open fires and stoves alike.

Here, the all-in-one surround, complete with mantel and back panels, provides a fresh clean contrast to the original brickwork which has been left on show. 

12. Keep things simple with a sleek panel

Opting for a freestanding log burning stove or similar does not mean missing out on the decorative element of a back panel — a simple section placed directly behind the stove will not only protect the wall but is also a great way to introduce a little colour or texture. 

Lundhs Real Stone Blue has been used for the backdrop of the fireplace in this modern living space. The natural stone defines the fireplace and continues down onto the floor as a hearth, while the material's feldspar crystals will sparkle against the flames.

Getting to grips with restoring a fireplace is something the majority of renovators will need to do if they want to get this much-prized original feature looking as good as the day it was first fitted. 

While we all have different fireplace ideas for our homes, if you are lucky enough to find an original fireplace in your house then sprucing it up and incorporating it into any modernisation plans you might have for your interior design scheme is a job well worth undertaking. 

Here, we take a look at the factors that could affect whether or not your fireplace restoration will be a project worth pursuing, whether it is a Victorian tiled design or a chunky Georgian marble model. 

Common problems when restoring a fireplace

While there are many different types of fireplace each with varying degrees of wear and tear and damage, it is very useful to understand how to tackle the individual issues often associated with this kind of original feature. 

Here, with the help of experts in the field, we take you through how to address the most common problems found by those restoring old fireplaces. 

1) Is the fireplace worth rescuing?

Fireplaces are often seen as highly desirable features in both period and contemporary homes, even where the owners don't ever plan on using them for an open fire. Some people choose to kit them out with a log burning stove, while others after interesting living room fireplace ideas simply use them as an eye-catching decorative feature. Whatever final use they end up having, it is still well worth breathing new life into them. 

"A restored fireplace helps raise the overall household value, which is excellent if you ever wish to sell your home in the future," says Mark Swann of Sussex Fireplace Restoration. "Many buyers appreciate the beauty and functionality of a fireplace in working order."

2) What style of fireplace are you working with?

Period fireplaces come in many different styles and were made from various materials, including stone, timber, brick and cast iron. Those renovating a Georgian house are likely to find something very different to those working on an Art Deco home. 

"The Georgians often favoured more natural materials such as marble surrounds and classical-style stone with more plain apertures that contained a fire basket," says Mark Swann. "On the other hand, Edwardian and Victorian households often opted for an all-in-one cast iron fireplace with combined inserts and surround. Victorian fireplaces have surrounds made of a wide range of marble, stone, and timber materials.

"Many people of that time also liked other decorative elements, such as tiled inserts on the sides or cheeks of the fireplace." 

3) Will chimney repairs be necessary? 

If you plan on using the fireplace as an open fire or as an opening in which to install a log burning or multi-fuel stove or other kind of fire that requires a chimney or flue, you will need to ensure that everything is in good working order as the condition of chimneys plays a huge role in both ensuring the fire can burn safely, as well as efficiently. 

"The best way to start restoring is to ensure your chimney breast is swept by a professional chimney sweep so that they may check for any factors that require repairing and thoroughly clean the insides," advises Mark Swann.

"Eruption in your chimney will need restoration work, not just for your chimney but also the hearth, chimney liner and masonry," continues Mark. "It's best to ensure your chimney liner and overall fireplace is thoroughly checked over for chips in the paint or plaster, rusting, creosote build-ups, cracks, obstructions or various other problems."

4) Can you open up a fireplace?

If you suspect that there is an old fireplace hiding behind one of your walls then you will no doubt be eager to set it free — opening up a fireplace is a job that can add value and charm to a home. 

"In some cases, opening up a fireplace could involve little more than prising off a sheet of old hardboard to reveal a hidden gem," says chartered surveyor Ian Rock. "But even if you don’t find a long-forgotten marble masterpiece behind, there’s still plenty you can do to create a captivating focal point.

"A bolster and club hammer is probably the better option for localised demolition where old fireplaces have been bricked up," advises Ian. "Having exposed the original ‘builder’s opening’, large deposits of accumulated soot and rubble will likely need to be removed before the chimney can be swept and the flue lined."

5) How do you remove paint from fireplaces?

It was common in the past to paint both stone and cast iron fireplaces, leaving many renovators wondering how to get their features back to their original state without damaging them. 

"Many period marble and stone fire surrounds will have been painted at some point," say the experts at Chenseys. "Using a paint stripper, layers of paint can easily be removed, and the original material revealed and then waxed and polished.

"Paint stripper can also be applied to a cast iron grate or fire basket, which can then be polished using a graphite paste," they continue. 

"Layers of too much paint can be completely removed with a chemical paint stripper before wiping the coats away with a cloth," agrees Mark Swann. "Many may wonder why you don't use heat guns instead. However, those working in the industry would often advise that you avoid using heat guns as they typically crack old metal or lead, which would ruin the structure of your fireplace.

"The job takes elbow grease, and you'll want to ensure you or you or your professional is equipped with protective gloves and attire."

6) How do you clean a fireplace?

In some cases, if you are lucky, all that might be required to get your fireplace gleaming once more is a thorough clean.

"If there is no need to remove paint, a weak solution of washing up liquid will shift superficial dirt and stains before the surround is waxed and polished," advise Chesneys.

"Often you may find that an old cast iron fireplace may be in dire need of a cosmetic spruce-up," says Mark. "You might need to buff it with a Liberon paste or other specialist polish before covering it with fireplace paint formulated for higher temperatures in matte black so that it does not peel off with the heat or moisture."

7) How do you repair a tiled fireplace?

If you are hoping to bring your tiled fireplace ideas to fruition but are the owner of a tiled fireplace that has seen better days, a different approach will be required. 

If tiles are cracked or missing, you might get lucky and find matching replacement tiles by searching online or scouring reclamation yards. However, if your search proves unsuccessful, you might like to embrace a more mix-and-match look for your fireplace by introducing some new patterns.

Alternatively, you could remove all the tiles and start over. 

8) How do you repair cracks in brick fireplaces?

If you have a brick fireplace opening and find it is cracked, you need to take action. 

"If you discover a cracked brick in your fireplace masonry, you must patch it up immediately," says Mark Swann. "Suppose the bricks are crumbling; you must replace them with new firebricks inside the mortar joint. If you find that your mortar joints are crumbling in the firebox, you must replace the old loose mortar after chiselling it out.

"Such processes are called 'tuckpointing', and it is a process many follow to repair mortar joints in most brick structures. The primary difference between the two is that refractory mortar is designed to withstand extreme heat and temperatures."

9) How do you repair a fireplace hearth?

If you uncover an old fireplace hearth it is worth saving it — particularly as it may well compliment the original fireplace. 

Slate and other types of stone hearth were a common feature in many period homes, but they are prone to scratches and may have cracked or got chipped over the years — thankfully there are steps you can take to repair them. But what about if the original heath is missing altogether and you need to find some new fireplace hearth ideas?

"The hearth was traditionally made from concrete set flush into the floor void. To comply with Building Regulations this will need to be raised above floor level; it’s a simple job to form a new one directly on top from in-situ concrete, or you might opt for a marble or slate hearth," explains Ian Rock.

"New hearths can come in standard sizes, or you may like to have them custom-made to fit all your appliance's dimensions, floors, walls and proportions," points out Mark Swann.

If your hearth is scratched, there are many products out there to address the issue. Slate oils and hard waxes often really help disguise scratches (test on an inconspicuous section first). Something like Tableau Slate Oil from Amazoncan work wonders but if you want the scratches gone altogether then it may be necessary to lightly sand the stone before resealing.   

10) What should you do if there are missing fireplace parts?

It is not unusual to find fixings, tiles or sections of original fireplaces are missing — thankfully this does not have to mean ripping them out and starting from scratch. 

"If you uncover damaged or missing metal components, it's best to call a local professional to assist you," says Mark. "Restorers can also recast any fireplace features, for example grates and hoods."

Removing a fireplace surround is a job that is carried out for various reasons. Perhaps your fireplace has been fitted with a rather unsympathetic surround that is not at all in keeping with the rest of the house at some point in the past, or maybe the existing surround is in an unrepairable state.

In some cases an old surround just won't fit in with your new fireplace ideas, in which case, taking it off the wall and replacing it with something that does will have an enormous effect on the look of the space given what a prominent position fireplaces usually occupy in the home.

Here, we take a look at what the task of removing a fireplace involves and advise you on how the job may differ depending on the style of surround you are dealing with. 

Is removing a fireplace surround a DIY job?

In the majority of cases removing a fireplace will be fairly straightforward and well within the capabilities of the competent DIYer — although it will often not necessarily be a solo job due to the weight of some surrounds. 

There are, just as when opening up a fireplace, exceptions. If the fire itself is still in place and is a gas fire, you should call in a Gas Safe Engineer to tackle the task before you start ripping away the surround. Otherwise, despite being messy, you can get stuck in. 

Tool list for removing a fireplace

Before you begin, make sure you have all the right tools for the job. These will vary slightly depending on the type of fire surround you have, but in general you will need:

• Dust mask
• Gloves
• Safety goggles
• Dust sheet
• Drill and masonry drill bits
• Screwdriver
• Crow bar
• Cold chisel or bolster chisel (or both!)
• Club hammer and/or rubber mallet
• Wedges
• Buckets/plastic trugs/rubble bags

Before attempting this job you should protect the room you are working in — this is a dusty, messy job. Clear the room as much as possible, roll back rugs and cover fitted carpets. Some people also choose to have their chimney swept before this job as it lessens the chance of being showered by an avalanche of soot and bird nests while working. 

What is a fireplace surround?

A fireplace surround is the structure that is fitted above and around the opening of a fireplace. It is different from a 'fireplace suite' which includes a hearth, back panel and the fire itself. The surround is the section that sticks out of the wall that surrounds the opening of the fireplace and will usually be made up of:  

• Mantel: The shelf above the fireplace opening. Sometimes this is installed as a 'floating' element, otherwise it comes as part of a complete surround. 
• Legs: The two vertical pillars supporting the mantel.
• Corbel: This is the section that extends out from the wall and supports the mantel. It might simply be part of an all-in-one surround, or be fixed directly to the wall. Sometimes it is replaced by brackets. 
• Plinth: Not all surrounds feature plinths, but if they do, these sit at the bottom of each leg and are sometimes referred to as the 'foot'.

How is the surround attached to the wall?

The type of fire surround you have and how it was originally attached to the wall will have a big impact on the steps you need to take to remove it. 

Cast iron fireplaces were often attached to the wall with 'lugs', small brackets fixed around the edge of the surround and attached to the wall that makes up the chimney breast with screws.

Timber fireplaces were commonly screwed to wooden brackets or battens on the wall, while fully tiled fireplace surrounds often have concrete backing which is fixed to the wall by lugs. 

Those facing brick or stone fireplace ideas that don't fit in with their interior scheme will need to take a more methodical approach, taking them off bit by bit. They might be attached to the wall with metal wall ties. 

How to remove a wooden fireplace

In the case of timber fire surrounds you will need to first uncover the battens or brackets that are attaching them to the wall. 

"Timber surrounds are usually held in by picture plates (brackets) that are plastered over, or battens fixed to the wall and screwed into through the side of the fire surround," explains Tristan Rowe, director at Chesneys. 

"Before attempting to remove anything make sure the fire surround is propped up securely and safely so it cannot topple over when the brackets and fixings are released," continues Tristan. "You should note that this is minimum of a two person job.

"Once propped you can then cut the plaster away from the brackets and undo the screws holding it into the wall. Alternatively, look for the filler over the screw heads in the side of the timber, dig it out and undo the screws to release  the surround from the batons.

"In both cases the fire surround should be free to pull away from the wall when the props are removed and lain down on the floor."

How to remove a cast iron surround

In many ways, removing a cast iron fireplace surround is a very similar process to that for timber — although the cast iron surround is likely to be much heavier than a timber model.

"The fixing points for cast iron surrounds are at the top of the outside of each leg and are cast into the chassis of the fireplace," says Tristan. "Occasionally there are additional ones further down the legs too.

"If the cast iron surround is greater than 1350mm wide and 1250mm high then this should be referred to a qualified fireplace installer as there can be multiple fixing points on the fireplace and it can well exceed 100kg so is not suitable for DIY removal."

Sometimes you might find you need to chip away the plaster around the edge of the surround to reveal lugs. Remove the screws to release the surround from the wall.

In both cases, ensure the surround is supported so it doesn't fall off the wall — a helper will really come in handy here.

How to remove a stone fireplace surround

This is where things have the potential to get a little tricky. 

For both stone and brick surrounds it is common to find that they are made up of separate elements, held together with mortar or similar. The sit directly on the hearth below and will often be secured to the wall with metal wall ties, dowels or brackets. 

You will usually need to start by chipping away at the mortar to release one section (or brick) at a time, also chipping any ties out of the wall as and when you come across them. 

"Stone surrounds are often recessed into the wall and the plaster may be contributing to the shelf being held in position," warns Tristan. "In this case, removal should be carried out by a qualified fireplace installer as the weight of a standard fireplace can easily exceed 300kg, making DIY removal vey dangerous — it is not something we would recommend."

Removing a surround with brackets

If you are lucky, you might find that your fire surround is attached to the wall by brackets or a strong adhesive — this tends to be the case with lightweight and modern surrounds. 

In the case of brackets, one will be attached to the wall while the other is screwed to the back of the surround — they just click together. To remove it you simply lift up the surround and take it away from the wall.  

In the case of surrounds fitted with adhesive, use a crow bar or similar to prise the surround away.

FAQs

Gas fire removal is actually a fairly common project, with more and more people facing rising fuel prices and looking for cost-effective ways to heat their homes. 

Installing log burning stoves in the place of old gas fires is a very popular home improvement, as is upgrading inefficient or faulty gas fires in favour of something more suited to modern expectations and those incorporating innovations in technology. 

We have spoken to experts in the field to bring you this guide on how to remove a gas fire safely, including advice on how long the job is likely to take, how much to budget for this project and whether or not it is possible to tackle the task on a DIY basis. 

Is gas fire removal a DIY job?

While removing, restoring or opening up a fireplace is something often undertaken on a DIY basis, when it comes to gas appliances, the advice is always to call in the professionals. 

"When it comes to safely removing a gas fire, it is crucial to entrust the job to professionals who are qualified and certified in their respective fields," says Calvin May, head of technical services at HETAS. "Gas work, including the disconnection of gas pipes, should always be carried out by a Gas Safe engineer, while solid fuel work requires the expertise of a HETAS engineer. Safety is paramount, especially considering the potential risks associated with gas and solid fuel technologies."

Why is gas fire removal a good idea?

There are many reasons why people choose to remove gas fires, but perhaps one of the most common driving factors is the desire to embrace more environmentally friendly and lower cost technology. If you are asking 'how much does it cost to run a gas fire' the answer might also be a factor that helps you decide on whether or not you want to go ahead. 

"Advancements in cleaner technologies offer not only operational benefits but also contribute to a more sustainable environment. Our HETAS Cleaner Choice scheme advocates for environmentally friendly impacts, aligning with the growing emphasis on responsible energy consumption," says Calvin May.

"Furthermore, operational advantages can be gained from embracing innovative technologies. Pellet technology, for instance, provides enhanced controllability and compatibility with gas appliances. This seamless integration extends to convenient remote control via mobile devices, ensuring efficient and user-friendly operation."

In addition, older gas fires can be unattractive and take up more room than modern alternatives — plus they often just don't do justice to an interior scheme in the same way that log burners or stylish radiators can. 

What can you replace a gas fire with?

Once you have made the decision to remove your gas fire, you will probably be wondering what to replace it with or be asking how to replace a gas fire with a woodburner. 

"A gas fire can be replaced with an alternative heating solution, such as a modern electric fire or a traditional wood burning or multi fuel stove," advises Jon Butterworth, director at Arada Stoves. "An electric fire is a much simpler addition to the home as it does not require a certified fitter to install the fire, simply an electricity source to plug it in. You will however need to build an appropriate surround to house the fire. 

"Alternatively, if you’d like to install a wood burning or multi fuel stove, this will require more research and speaking to a certified installer who will be able to advise what you can and can’t have as there are variable factors for every household that need to be considered.”

Of course you may simple want to use your now empty fireplace in a decorative way, in which case you might want to consider alternatives to fireplaces, such as bioethanol models. 

Are there different types of gas fire?

Before calling out someone to remove your gas fire, it is incredibly useful to know exactly what type of gas fire you have — not all are the same. According to Gas Safe Register these are the different types of gas fire:

• Gas fire with flue: "A flue can be a brick chimney or metal constructed pipe and simply provides a means for exhaust gases to pass from a gas fire to the outside of your property," their experts explain. "There are two main types of flued gas fire: conventional flue gas fires, and balanced flue gas fires."
• Conventional flue gas fires: This type of gas fire needs to be connected to a chimney or flue. "Conventional flue gas fires work by drawing air from the surrounding space, which is combined with draught air rising through the chimney/ flue," say the experts at Gas Safe Register. "This helps remove Products of Combustion (PoC) or waste gases that are then expelled via the chimney. Conventional flue gas fires come in both open-fronted and glass-fronted styles. Glass-fronted styles have become more popular with stove effect fires."
• Balanced flue gas fires: These feature a concentric flue which is located at the back or top of the fire, connecting them to outside. "Unlike conventional flue gas fires, which can be open-fronted, all balanced flue gas fires are room-sealed and glass-fronted," say Gas Safe Register.
• Flueless gas fires: This type of fire will not be connected to any kind of flue or chimney — although they still require ventilation. 
• LPG gas fires: Unlike the majority of gas fires, which use mains gas, LPG gas fires use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), also known as propane or butane, supplied via a tank.

How do you remove a gas fire?

As mentioned previously, it is actually a legal requirement to call in a professional in order to remove a gas fire — it is essential that this job is carried out by a Gas Safe Registered engineer.

However, it is useful to understand the process of removing a gas fire to get an idea of the kind of disruption to expect. 

Gas fires tend to be made up of a hearth, surround, fireplace and chimney or flue. 

The most straightforward (and cheapest) way of removing a gas fire is to simply take out the fire and cap off the gas supply. Of course this job usually goes hand-in-hand with the removal of the surround, fireplace and hearth, depending on what you plan on using in its place.

How much does gas fire removal cost?

The cost of removing a gas fire tends to vary according to a number of factors, such as the condition of the old fire and what you plan on replacing it with — if anything. 

"If you’re planning to not only remove your gas fire but also remove the surrounds and chimney, the job will take much longer and be much more expensive," advise the experts at Checkatrade. 

They estimate the average cost of removing a gas fire to be £75, rising to £100. However, if you are also removing the hearth, they advise adding on around £350, while chimney removal costs could be between £1,000-£1,600.

While it will obviously cost you to have a gas fire removed, don't forget the value you could add by carrying out the task, as well as the potential energy savings you may make.

"Cost considerations are pertinent," says Calvin May. "The recent surge in gas prices might lead to cost savings when opting for alternatives such as wood burners. This financial aspect should be weighed against the expenses involved in the removal process and the installation of a new system." 

An interior design blogger has shown how she redesigned her living room by refurbishing her fireplace to restore its period features, all on a strict budget.

Nicole Sage set out to transform the living room of her new house by bringing the fireplace back to its former glory, and has provided some insight into how she did it.

Nicole explained that the fireplace had been removed by the previous owners and replaced with a plastic sheet to cover the hole. She was eager to restore the fireplace, but keeping costs low was a top priority as she also planned to renovate the entire property.

From sourcing the fireplace insert and pared back surround to installing the hearth slate, Nicole provides plenty of advice for those looking for fireplace ideas.

Sourcing a vintage fireplace insert 

To achieve her ideal fireplace, Nicole turned to secondhand shopping for her fireplace insert and fireplace surround.

In her Sleek Chic blog , Nicole explains how she searched websites such as Vinted, eBay, as well as looking in charity shops to find the perfect insert style and size for the room. Eventually, she found one on Facebook Marketplace.

Nicole said, “It must have been weeks, but finally the perfect fireplace came up. It was a Georgian cast iron fireplace with a pine surround. It needed a bit of work, but it only set us back £50, such a bargain!”

Nicole said being persistent helped her find exactly what she wanted when looking on these platforms. She added that those wanting to complete similar projects should check the platforms regularly as new items are added daily. She also said not to be afraid to negotiate on price, taking into account how much work is needed to restore an item before agreeing a final price.

To restore the insert itself, always use a specialist stove paint that can withstand high temperatures. A spray paint like  is ideal for something like an insert as this can be applied outdoors on newspaper and give a smooth, flawless finish. If necessary, apply some rust inhibitor before painting too, " explains Homebuilding & Renovating website editor Amy Willis, who has restored fireplaces in the past. Amazon has plenty of options for this, including Hammerite's high heat spray paint in matt black. 

Fitting the fireplace insert into the existing hole

Nicole ran into difficulties when installing the fireplace insert when she found it was too large to fit the existing hole. And this is likely to be a common problem when using secondhand inserts, usually where the grate area does not have enough space to sit inside the hole.

To fix this problem required excavating brickwork to make more room, Nicole explained. If doing this yourself on your own project, make sure you read our section below on opening up a fireplace before starting work as there may be structural considerations. Nicole was not making any structural changes for her project not was the fireplace going to be a working fireplace.

To determine the size of the hole, Nicole lined the fireplace up against the wall and marked it out, making sure it was correct placed to the center of the chimney breast. 

To cut the hole, Nicole removed the insert and set it aside before using a grinder along with a hammer and bolster to remove the bricks. "This can be messy work with red brick dust going everywhere, particularly when using a grinder on brick, so make sure you add dust sheets and use appropriate PPE for yourself," adds Amy Willis.

Matt tiles for an authentic period feel

Once the hole was cut to size, the first step was to install a tiled hearth. Nicole chose matt black hearth tiles that matched the fireplace's colour, giving the fireplace a more authentic period feel.

Slate was a popular material for Victorian and Georgian style fireplace hearths, the area around the fireplace, due to its durability and heat resistance as well as availability. This protected the floor as well as reducing the fire risk from any sparks.

Sometimes additional decorative tiles were inset around the cast iron fireplace insert too, often polished and carved with intricate patterns and designs to add a touch of elegance. Tiles also added an element of insulation to push heat into the room rather than allowing it to escape through the walls.

A pared-back painted wood fire surround

Nicole was clever with her purchase as it also included a pine fire surround that was the right size for her chimney breast and the room.

Nicole cleaned and sanded down the wood before painting it white satin to match the skirting boards (You can read about sanding wood by hand, painting wood and painting skirting boards in our handy DIY guides). The surround was then fitted into place and secured with screws. 

"To ensure a seamless finish, we used caulk to seal any exposed edges", she added.

"In smaller homes, period styling was pared back compared to some of the larger more affluent houses. There was a lot of poverty so simple slate hearths and painted wood fire surrounds in small terraced Victorian homes rather than hugely elaborate designs would be true to the period," explains Homebuilding & Renovating's Amy Willis. 

"For smaller projects you can also buy secondhand period fireplace inserts with a top shelf already integrated into the cast iron design. This removes the need for a separate fireplace surround to be built if one is not available."

Nicole finished the look of her fireplace with an arched mirror above. The black accent around the mirror complements the modern décor scheme and helps to create the illusion of a larger room. 

How to open up a fireplace yourself

If you're considering opening up a fireplace there are a number of elements you must consider.

Several aspects must be taken into account before installing your fireplace, including inspecting the chimney, selecting the desired size and type of fireplace, choosing appropriate materials, and installing a carbon monoxide detector.

It is crucial to prioritise safety and comply with Building Regulations throughout the process as mishandling this could be dangerous. While Nicole's project was not designed to be a working fireplace, if you plan to use your fireplace, or if you need to add or change a structural element such as a lintel, you will need to appoint a building inspector, who will see if project meets fire safety regulations. 

"If you are planning to use your fireplace rather than it being a decorative feature, it can be cheaper instructing a HEFTAs registered installer instead," explains Amy Willis. "These installers know the regulations inside out, know what to do when installing and can sign off the work themselves."

When styling and planning living room fireplace ideas there is a lot to juggle. This sometimes bulky feature can protrude into a room and dictate the size and placement of almost every piece of furniture within a living space. 

Gone are the days when a fireplace was the only form of heating in a room, so it can be hard to know what to do with these eye-catching but sometimes imposing architectural elements.

In this guide, find out how to balance fireplace ideas that suit your home with the style of living room you're aiming to create.

How to layout a living room with a fireplace

When planning your living room ideas with the hope of including a fireplace, the first place to start is by creating a scale drawing of the room — measure walls, ceiling heights and chimney breast alcoves. Also mark on immovable parts of the room, like radiators, windows and doors. 

Then, think about how you will use the room. Will it be to watch TV primarily (if so, mark on the plan where it will go), or will it also be used to host board games nights or casual conversations with visitors? 

With this in mind, count how many sofas and chairs you will need. Play around with coffee tables, armchairs and L-shaped sofas of different dimensions and where they will go. It's also always nice to have a couple of seats by the fire for colder days so cater for this positioning. 

This will begin to shape your plan for the layout. And to help further, read on below for some clever ideas for planning a living room with a focal fireplace.

1. Position seating carefully around a fireplace

Is there anything more welcoming than a chair by the fire on a cold winter's night? Your living room layout ideas and where you position your furniture might well be dictated by a fireplace so you feel the benefit on a chilly night. But this should also be balanced with comfort — you don't want to be sat too close that you're sweating rather than enjoying the comfort of a warm fire.

A space of around a metre should protect you and your furniture from the heat of a fire. However, if you tend to have a lot of wood and equipment around your fireplace then more space might be required. 

For gas fires you can sit much closer as they don't spit, but a good distance is always recommended for safety and comfort.

2. Use the fireplace to inspire other architectural elements in a living room design

Fireplaces are usually the most enticing part of a living room, catching the eye of visitors upon entering the room, and acting as a visual focalpoint.

In renovations and modern extensions alike, fireplaces can be used to inspire other interesting features in a living room. Take chimney breast ideas — they could provide inspiration for the alcoves next to a fireplace in terms of form, colour treatment or detailing. 

This is especially true for Victorian tiled fireplace ideas where colours can be picked out or floral motifs can be mimicked in the wider room. 

The height of built-in shelving and storage in the stylish living room shown above has been lined up with the fireplace inset for a cohesive look. The whole wall feels like an architectural feature, rather than an exercise in storage for awkward spaces.

3. Make a fireplace the centre of your country-style living room 

Fireplaces are ideal for inspiring a living room's decor — anything from mid-century modern to New England styles. 

If you've inherited a particular style by opening up a fireplace during a renovation, do some research into the building's history and any later additions that might shed light on its past. 

For new living rooms, choosing a fireplace in the style of our new space or intended interior design scheme will help pull the room together — if this feature is out of place, the scheme won't work.

Here, a quintessential country living room has been created around the existing open brick fireplace ideas. The open fire combined with deep armchairs and sofas is undoubtedly welcoming and rustic. 

4. Place a rug in front of a stove fireplace

If you have a carpet or other soft flooring choice in your cosy living room, you might want to consider a rug in front of a stove to protect it if you don't want to incorporate large fireplace heath ideas.  

Open fires spit and even when you're refilling a stove, embers and ash can fly out and catch on a carpet. 

There are rugs and mats specifically designed to be placed next to a fireplace that won't be as flammable (look for a Fire Retardant/Resistant label like this one from Amazon) or mark from debris. 

5. Use accessories around a fireplace to bring a living room to life

The key to a comfortable living room or snug lies in the added extras that make a space unique and personal. This is where fireplaces come into their own.

Mantelpiece ideas are ideal for displaying fresh flowers, candles, mirrors and pictures, while a hearth can provide a more practical, yet rustic use for styling kindling and log stores. Play with different heights of objects against a fireplace as it can transform how a living room feels when you hunker down at night. 

Beside the fireplace, a carefully positioned floor lamp or wall light will be far more comforting and warming than overhead downlights which can feel clinical. 

6. Create a living room perfect for conversations

Position sofas perpendicular to a fireplace for a space that feels open for conversation, even if you will also use it for watching TV. 

Using the dimensions of the outer edges of a fireplace creates a visual geometry that will give the living room a clear flow for visitors to follow. This is also a useful tool to avoid agoraphobic furniture placements, where every item is against a wall. 

Furniture in the centre give a living room identity and confidence (while not encouraging a cavernous space at its core). 

It is one of the most popular ways to warm a home, but how much does it cost to run a gas fire in light of the uncertainty surrounding energy costs in the UK?

Gas fires are regarded as reliable, safe, and odourless, and allow householders to quickly heat their home. So, if you're looking for fireplace ideas, they are well worth considering.

One of the benefits of gas fires is that they are highly efficient – some gas fires can boast an efficiency rating of as much as 90%. This means that of all the gas fed into the fire, 90% of it is converted into heat for the room and just 10% of the gas energy is wasted. They also do not suck in unnecessary air like wood-burning stoves, so more energy is produced to heat your room.

The installation of gas fires soared when the Clean Air Act was passed by the UK government in 1956 to restrict the use of smog-producing solid fuels in urban areas. Coal fires were ripped out and replaced with gas fires throughout the 1970s and 1980s and the vast majority of fires were gas by the 1990s.

But what about modern gas fires? Here's everything you need to know about how much it costs to run a gas fire - and if it could be cheaper than a wood-burning stove or even central heating.

How much does it cost to run a gas fire?

The cost of running a gas fire or stove depends on several factors, but at its core relies on the size and efficiency of the unit and the gas utility company chosen.

Fireplace and stove producer Stovax has put together a method of discovering an approximate running cost of a gas fire or stove. First, identify the input rating (kW) of your gas fire or stove, then check how much you pay for your gas per kWh by checking your last gas bill or contacting your provider.

Then calculate you appliance’s cost per hour using the equation: input rating (kWh) x gas price per kWh.

For example, if you have a balanced flue Riva2 530 gas fire, which has an input rating of 6.6kW and your house tariff is 10.3p per kWh, the cost per hour would be 67.98p (6.6 times 10.3).

Is a gas fire cheaper than a wood burner?

As with any comparison of heating costs, this depends on a number of factors, such as the level of heating you need, the size of the property, fuel supply, how cold it is, and how well insulated the home is.

Each log burning stove is unique, with its own unique airflow and deposit build-up rate, and each property requires different levels of heating, so the results will vary. However, to get a rough indication of cost, we can take an example wood burner that will consume 3.75kg of wood over an evening.

A 40 litre bag of kiln-dried Hardwood Firewood Logs from Amazon is £18.95 for roughly 15kg, so £1.26 per kg. If we use the £18.95 bag from Amazon as an approximate gauge, if you use 3.75kg of logs over an evening, then you’re paying £4.15 to run your wood burner each evening. Compared to running your gas fire at 67.98p an hour, the gas fire probably is cheaper. 

Of course, it very much depends on how much you are paying for your wood and how fast you are burning it. There's also the question of how much heat each one might put out to consider too, which can be boosted by adding one of the best stove fans. The type of wood used is a key factor in this too. Kiln-dried hardwood is more expensive than cheaper soft woods as it will burn hotter for longer.

Wood sold at petrol stations and supermarkets is far more expensive too, so it’s worth buying in bulk where possible from local suppliers and storing it in a log shed. Buying from local suppliers can be as cheap as £180 for four cubic metres of seasoned hard and soft wood (a tipper truck load). Word of mouth can be handy for getting the best deals in your area so it's well worth talking to your neighbours about what they do. And make sure it is seasoned wood as any wood that is still moist will smoke, clog up your flue and be a fire risk especially if you have a thatch roof. It also won't burn as hot and will spit.

As well as traditional log burners, you can also choose from multi-fuel or wood pellet stoves. And if you are fully invested in the idea of ripping out a gas fire to replace with a log burner, you can read our guide on 'how to replace a gas fire with a log burner'.

Is it cheaper to run a gas fire than central heating?

As a rough indicator of central heating costs per hour Worcester Bosch says a typical boiler running 10 radiators in a three-bedroom detached house with two to three people living in it will use an average £2.82 per day or 12p an hour (divided by 24 hours) for a gas boiler.

This can be compared to the cost per hour of a gas fire above at 67.98p per hour. Again, this is a rough estimate and circumstances can vary widely.

This may differ depending on your fireplace type, for instance bioethanol fireplaces will be cheaper to run than gas fires but their heat output might not be as high. 

There are lots of reasons why people choose to install a double-sided fireplace. Visually they add real wow factor in open or broken plan rooms and spaces, or two separate but adjoining rooms. They can also act as a room divider while allowing both spaces to enjoy the view of a roaring fire.

However, there is more to consider when creating this feature than with other types of fireplace ideas. How tricky this task is, will largely depend on whether you are installing one in a new build or extension, or plan on retro-fitting one into your existing home. You will also need to think about the type of fire you want to fit into the fireplace — open fire or log burning stove, for example.

Finally, there are the building regulations surrounding this type of feature to take into account, as well as any structural implications that may be opened up when embarking on this project.

Fear not though, our expert advice is here to help you navigate your way through everything from planning to installation. 

Is a double-sided fireplace hard to install?

Double-sided fireplaces are not necessarily difficult to install, but there are a couple of additional points of consideration – particularly concerning chimneys – when fitting this type of fireplace as opposed to a more standard design. 

"In particular, whether you’re creating a new chimney breast or modifying an existing one, you’ll need to ensure the opening has lintels front and back to hold up the wall above," explains architectural technician Marcus Hirst. "You’ll also need to make sure that the heat output is high enough to heat the rooms on both sides. You can either use an online heat calculator or call in the services of a HETAS engineer who can recommend the right fire." 

In extensions and new builds double-sided fireplaces are a great idea but those simply remodelling or carrying out a cosmetic renovation should ask themselves whether adding one is really worth it. Where double-sided fireplaces can really make sense is when adding an extension to an exterior wall with a fireplace already in place. 

"The most tricky element in retro-fitting a double-sided fireplace is where to locate it. You will need to find a solid wall (which will likely be structural) and knock through it to create the necessary openings," explains Marcus. "Be aware that it may not even be possible to hide a flue inside the chimney while still making sure everything is fireproof. It could be more cost effective to make a ‘false’ wall solely for the purpose of hosting the fireplace.

"If the space is large enough or perhaps you’re extending or building a new home from scratch, then you could choose to have a flue without a chimney."

What building regulations should I know about?

You really need to pay close attention to the building regulations for chimneys, stoves and fireplaces when designing and installing a double-sided fireplace. 

"If you’re buying a prefabricated fireplace, make sure you’re paying close attention to the chamber and the thickness of the insulated concrete," says Marcus Hirst. "As a minimum, your fireplace will need to have: 50mm for the base, 75mm for the sidewalls, 100mm for the top slab, lintel or throat gather (a box which goes over the top of the fireplace/burner to fit the chimney/flue size if the hearth is large and the flue is small). 

"If you specify a double-sided wood burner then the clearance between the top of the unit and the top of the opening in the wall will be detailed in the manufacturer’s notes but will likely be at least 300mm from the top of the flames to the opening. For custom models, these rules will still apply, and you’ll need to make sure the materials of anything near the fireplace – for example, the lintels, chimney, chimney lining and so on – have the required certification for building regulations’ sign off.

"The guidelines set out the lengths, locations and measurements your team will need to consider, some of which will differ from a traditional fireplace. Flue design is much stricter, for example, if both sides of the fireplace are open, and will require either specialist mechanical extraction or safety glass on one side. You might get away with neither if the room is very large and well ventilated but this is up to the building control officer to determine. It’s good anyway to do one or the other to reduce the chance of carbon monoxide or particulates filling up the room. Either way, this shouldn’t affect the look and feel of your design too much but will allow it to operate in the same manner as a traditional model, while still retaining an
open effect."

Will I need planning permission for a double sided fireplace?

It is unlikely that installing a double-sided fireplace will require planning permission — although if you live in a listed property it will almost certainly require you to apply for listed building consent.

"Fitting, altering or replacing an external flue or chimney usually falls under your permitted development rights," says Marcus Hirst. "This means you won’t need a full application, but it is generally recommended that you obtain a lawful development certificate for your records. Typically the fireplace will be signed off with the rest of the building regulations work if it’s part of a renovation or extension."

How much does it cost to install a double-sided fireplace?

Double-sided fireplace costs vary hugely depending on the size and style of fireplace you are fitting as well as whether you are installing it into an existing space or building from scratch.

"If you’re going to retrofit a double-sided fireplace into an existing chimney then you’ll need to add the costs to strip out anything that needs upgrading," explains Marcus Hirst from Resi. "This would probably just be in the region of £100s, plus the extra cost of the structural lintel for the additional side of the opening, circa £100. Don't forget to take into account the potential cost of the safety glass on one side or the mechanical extraction system.

"If you need to widen the flue, add structural supports, or knock through a wall or into the chimney, then this will be more expensive — in the region of £3,000 in the worst-case scenario.

"If you opt for a flue instead of a chimney then it will be cheaper since they are metal tubes that can be installed rather than requiring the services of a bricklayer to construct the walls."

Do I need a flue or a chimney?

The terms 'flue' and 'chimney' are often used interchangeably, so it’s worth taking some time to understand the difference. A chimney is a system comprising of a hearth, flue and stack. A flue sits below the roof and the stack is visible above the roof.

"Chimneys might be more traditional but they do have drawbacks," says Marcus Hirst. "They’re less efficient than insulated flues and care will need to be taken with solid and biomass fuel types, as these can lead to a build up of tar that will eventually run back down the chimney — not very pleasant or safe! If you have a tar burning fuel, such as oil or gas, then a masonry chimney will need to be lined. Most chimneys used with gas fires are fitted with Class 2 flexible liners, which are lightweight and single skin. For log burning stoves a Class 1 twin skin liner should be used. Metal flues are usually already lined.

"If you want to avoid any health and safety drama, you can always opt to run a flue through your chimney to give yourself the best of both worlds, as the flue acts as a lining inside the chimney."

Inglenook fireplace ideas should not be restricted to those renovating a period property or self builders constructing a traditional home. As our collection of inspirational designs shows, inglenook fireplaces can suit contemporary homes just as well as more classic properties. 

Although many people searching for fireplace ideas are often put off the idea of an inglenook fireplace for fear of them being energy inefficient, treated in the right way, they can perform well as a heat source.

Here, we have brought together some great treatments for this beautiful architectural feature to ensure that whatever interior scheme you are aiming for, there will be something for you.  

Which inglenook fireplace ideas will suit my home?

The great thing about this type of fireplace is that it can be adapted to suit a range of house styles. Although the inglenook fireplace has very historic roots, it can also suit modern homes, where its oversized nature and the wow factor can elevate a contemporary look. 

Renovators lucky enough to have an original inglenook to work with shouldn’t feel they have to design the rest of their scheme around the materials and form of the fireplace either — very often, a contrast between the existing elements of period properties and any newer additions can work brilliantly. 

What is an inglenook fireplace?

Before looking at ideas, it is useful to understand what an inglenook fireplace is. 

Inglenook fireplace was a term that, in the past, was used to describe the spaces on either side of a large open fire. However, the term is now more commonly thought of as describing the whole recess within a chimney breast that has been opened up to form a large space to hold a fire or stove.

Inglenook openings really come in all shapes and sizes but between 2-3m is common. That said, some are as much as 1.5m high. 

Here, we give a selection of ways to design and treat inglenook fireplaces — get ready for some seriously cosy inspiration. 

1. Pair classic brick with a log burning stove

Make the most of the character that log burning stoves can bring to a home by framing yours with a suitably warm and rustic inglenook fireplace design. 

Exposed brick fireplaces offer a classic, easy-to-live with finish that won't fight for attention in a space and can be paired with all kinds of fires, stoves and hearth materials. If you fancy something a little fresher in appearance, painted bricks also work well for inglenook fireplaces — although paler shades will show up dirt more. 

2. Expose a stone surround

If you are lucky enough to have a natural stone surround to your inglenook fireplace then make sure all eyes are drawn to it by leaving it exposed and only plastering the walls up to it.

Just as with brick, stone fireplace ideas can work with all kinds of interior design schemes, sitting just as happily in a pared back contemporary scheme as they will within a charming traditional one. 

3. Keep it crisp and minimal for a modern look

The inglenook fireplace translates brilliantly into a contemporary design feature, with its oversized proportions making it easy to create a focal point even in new builds. 

Keep the opening crisp and uncluttered, extending the hole-in-the-wall idea to fill out your chimney breast. Bear in mind too that there is nothing to say that your fire or stove has to be located in the centre of the inglenook — placing it off-centre, as has been done here, can add a quirky element.

4. Take advantage of a full-width inglenook

Whether you have taken on a renovation project with an expansive full-width inglenook fireplace or have built one from scratch, make sure you really embrace its proportions. Here, a chunky and very sizeable fire hood over the open fire helps to fill the space, along with a selection of traditional fireplace accessories. 

The positioning of a cosy chair and floor-standing lamp makes the space all the more inviting. 

5. Pair your fireplace with a media wall

Although media walls are often suggested as one of the alternatives to fireplaces, there is no need to choose between one or the other — the two can actually work brilliantly side-by-side as one large focal point. 

This is an idea that works really well for those with contemporary living rooms. It is a good idea to keep the inglenook opening fuss free and to paint or line the recess with a material in a shade that mirrors elements used in your media set-up — this can really tie the two together. 

6. Consider fireplace lighting carefully

Make sure your beautiful inglenook is the star of the show in your home by incorporating brilliant fireplace lighting ideas. 

Before you get carried away with this element of your lighting design though, do check with your electrician how close wired lights can be positioned to the chimney and fire. If you plan on using any plug-in light fittings, check with the manufacturer whether the products have any temperature limits. 

When it comes to inglenooks, using warm spotlights or concealed LED strips gives a welcoming glow — providing the space is roomy enough, it might also be possible to use downlights, but check this out with your electrician first.  

7. Use a narrow design where space is limited

You don't need a huge living room to incorporate an inglenook fireplace into your scheme — sometimes, a narrow, tall design will work better. If you are looking for small brick fireplace ideas then this is one to take note of.  

Within this scheme by architect Lewis Bailie, the new rear extension features a timber roof that has been supported on a masonry base, a section of which has been used to form the brick inglenook fireplace.  

8. Tie the fireplace in with an oak frame

Exposed oak frames create a wealth of character and warmth and looks fantastic paired with inglenook fireplaces. If you have an oak framed home, it really does pay to mirror the timber used elsewhere in the design of your fireplace for a nice, cohesive finish. 

In this home by Oakwrights, the brick inglenook, with its reassuringly chunky oak mantle, suits the country chic interiors down to the ground. 

9. Opt for soft and rustic for a country look

Period properties should not be perfect — far better to aim for a relaxed, rustic finish when it comes to the interiors. Here, a soft-textured and pleasingly uneven plaster finish has been used around the inglenook fireplace that cosies up the space. The pretty arch of the fireplace has been mirrored in the narrow alcove next to it and the exposed brick elements of the opening really help to draw the eye. 

10. Use your inglenook as an extra space

A large inglenook fireplace need not be a waste of floorspace if used wisely. If space allows, incorporate seating within the inglenook, as would have been done in the past. Seating can either be built in or placed within the opening. It is also a good idea to make use of existing alcoves for storage or, if creating an inglenook from scratch, to build in shelving or useful nooks. 

In this renovation project, the stone inglenook sits in complete contrast to the sleek, white modern kitchen yet the two work perfectly together. 

Planning fireplace lighting ideas alongside a wider rewire, a new stove installation, or simply a room update, is a smart way to boost the cosy levels in any style of living room. Fireplace lighting can help illuminate large fireplaces or simply bring a relaxing glow in the evening.

When it comes to fireplace ideas, it is always best to check with your electrician exactly how close wired lights can be positioned to the chimney and fire, and for plug-in choices, confirm with the manufacturer if the material has a certain temperature limit. 

Below, we explore the different ways to illuminate a fireplace or stove to create different effects and ambiances. 

Fireplace lighting ideas: How do you illuminate a fireplace? 

"When it comes to making a fireplace a real feature in your space, layering lighting on multiple levels is key to creating a cosy atmosphere," says Sam Baldry, head of design at Swoon. "A combination of wall lighting, table lamps, and a nearby floor lamp blends together gorgeously to create a stratified lighting scheme around your fireplace." 

The key to illuminating a fireplace is to be careful about the placement distance of the fixtures from the fire or to specify high heat temperature resistant LEDs and materials. 

Stoves emit a huge amount of heat so it is generally not advised to have lighting too close (discuss with your electrician during your lighting design brief) but gas or inset fires are generally fine to illuminate. 

1. Position ceiling fixtures to cast light on a fireplace

Situate statement ceiling living room lighting ideas near a fireplace to draw the eye towards the feature, even when it is not in use. 

Dangling pendants or modern chandeliers with warm bulbs cast a comforting glow that can produce that 'cosy' living room feel, even in the summer (and without the heat of a fire!). 

This stylish design uses brick fireplace ideas with clever ceiling lighting to create a unique and interesting focal point for the room. 

2. Light up the inside of an inglenook

Inglenooks were once used for people to sit around for warmth but today are a striking and desirable feature in their own right. There's nothing quite like opening up a fireplace during a renovation project to reveal this incredible structure. 

To provide a renewed sense of purpose and to maximise on this glimpse into past architecture, consider lighting the inside of an inglenook with warm spotlights, or LED strips. Indeed, without it, large inglenooks can feel a little cavernous.

The generous space surrounding the fire inside an inglenook means that it will probably be safe to install downlights at a safe distance — but check with your electrician before melting any fixtures! 

3. Use natural light and ambient lighting around a fireplace

Artificial light isn't the only way to light up a fireplace and let's face it — is there anything cosier than being sat beside a fire while the world outside is cold or even snowy? 

If you're creating a new spot in a self build or extension for a fire or stove, consider positioning it beside a striking view through a window. 

This stylish home allows the long, narrow window to slightly overlap with the stove and heath space. The result is a naturally lit fireplace which is ever-so inviting. 

4. Play with lighting levels around a fireplace

"Blending high, medium, and low-level lighting around your fireplace is a great way to implement a stand-out display in any space," says Sam Baldry from Swoon. 

Here, a hidden light provides a dramatic upwards wash of illumination behind the television while a stylish yet understated floor lamp provides a warming glow. 

Table lamps and dimmable downlights could also be used to a similar effect, as can high-level LED strips outlining and highlighting special features. 

5. Use the mantel to create a feature

If you can (and if it is safe to do so), installing lights within the timber beam mantelpiece is a stylish and elegant solution to the wall space fireplace often take up. 

Contrasting old features with new mantelpiece ideas and fixtures is a great way to blend the two styles — and is perfect for cosy living room ideas. 

The brass and exposed bulb wall lights wonderfully match the contemporary pendant in the centre of the room, while still looking appropriate against the traditional brick and timber inglenook. 

6. Place wall lights above the chimney breast

"Alongside the glow of your roaring fire, placing additional wall lighting above the mantelpiece creates another layer to your signature design," suggests Swoon's Sam Baldry. 

"Consider adding evenly spaced, twin wall lights above your fireplace, continuing the homely radiance upwards towards the ceiling. This generates a soft, glamorous glow, gracefully diffusing the fireplaces' light upwards and around the room."

Cleverly inconspicuous using subtle chimney breast ideas, the wall light shades have been matched to the blue-grey on the walls so they can provide the extra layer of lighting when required, but otherwise can blend in with the background. 

7. Be flexible with fireplace lighting

If you don't want to go about rewiring your living room and are just looking for a quick update, try to find light fixtures that can be used flexibly around the room. 

There are all kinds of solutions like this, including long-hanging pendant lights with hooks at various points around the room for the ultimate flexibility, or use statement swing wall lights that can be adjusted and repositioned as and when. 

Corner log burner ideas can be a creative way to warm your home — and often free up much needed wall space for storage and other focal points (the TV, for instance) elsewhere in a living space.

Although traditionally fireplaces are positioned in the centre of a wall and many homeowners use an existing chimney when installing new log burning stoves, a extension or self build project can provide the chance to move a stove to the corner of a room. What's more, corner log burners can also be a great idea for smaller living rooms or for those homes where a more centrally placed stove wouldn't be viable.

Find out how to plan a living room space with a corner stove, including industry expert advice on considerations you have to make at design and installation stage. 

How to plan and install using corner log burner ideas

"The considerations around installing in a wood burning stove in the corner of the room are largely the same when installing a wood burning stove in any other part of the home," begins Jon Butterworth, director at Arada Stoves. 

"You still have to abide by building regulations. You still must have a flue connected. The size, body shape and typical heat output of your stove determines the size and location of the flue and hearth you need. Plus you need to account for siting the stove some distance away from other combustible materials.”

1. Choose a modern log burner for the corner of a new extension

If you're extending and have the flexibility of choosing where your new log burner can go, a corner is a great option. 

Not only does it look visually striking, but allows more wall space to be freed up for other features or storage. 

More contemporary designs of log burner also look great as they tend to include larger, clearer glazing for a better view of the cosy fire. Rather than a traditional box-like design with a single window, cylindrical models particularly suit corner locations and allow the woodburner to be enjoyed from any angle in the room.  

2. Use a corner log burner as a focal point in an open plan space

Don't feel afraid to only include a woodburning stove in a living room — they look just as warm and welcoming in open plan kitchen and diner spaces as well. 

A well-placed corner log stove can draw the eye of guests during dinner and provide a cosy backdrop.

The flue of this log burner adds to the symmetry of the room — echoing the oak beams in the space.

3. Position a log burner around the corner

A log burner doesn't have to be penned in by a corner, but they can also be positioned in a more open space, creating important boundaries in open plan rooms. 

This stylish home's living room leads directly into the corridor towards the extension. By placing the log burner at the corner it delicately divides the rooms without a bulky wall or partition. 

Also note how the stove is located to the side of the hearth to allow room for log store ideas — this is another contemporary treatment to create an eye-catching focal point for any fireplace. 

4. Consider a log burner alternative for flexibility

Although solid-fuel woodburning stoves are increasingly more efficient, bioethanol fires remain a greener choice for many homes. (They are also a good option for low-energy homes, where a woodburning stove could throw out too much heat.)

Plus, when you choose a floorstanding model the fire can be moved anywhere (inside or out) for the perfect, but verstatile spot. 

5. Install a log burner with corner glazing

Installing an inset woodburning stove with dual-aspect glazing means you can the enjoy the best of both worlds — and a roaring fire can be enjoyed from the corner of a room.

This style of log burner will make a statement and is particularly well-suited to contemporary self build or extension projects. 

6. Plan where the stove equipment and accessories will go

A stove is never just a stove. After installation (or during the design stage if you want built-in choices) you must consider where your ready-to-burn wood (be careful not to start burning wet wood), kindling, stove fan and pokers will go. This is particularly key when it comes to a corner woodburner.

All of these items can quickly invade a living room space if not properly considered. Some homes choose to hide it away with built in storage, while others prefer the relaxed look with accessories and wood out in full view. 

GET THE LOOK

Whether you have just fitted a new fireplace or have bought a house with one already in place, knowing how to build a fire well is vital if you want to make the very most of it.

Not only is a badly laid fire hard to light and get going, but it will also need constant attention in order to keep burning. A well set fire, on the other hand, will be easy to ignite and maintain, kicking out plenty of heat, bringing your fireplace ideas to life and making that stash of firewood you splashed out on a worthwhile investment. 

Here, we explain the best ways to build a fire in a fireplace (it is a different technique to a log burning stove), as well as taking a look at some of the alternative methods you might like to try out.

What is the best way to build a fire?

In all honesty, this is a slightly controversial topic and one that can cause people to get a little hot and bothered (no pun intended). Much of this comes down to the fact that this is often knowledge that has been passed down through families and who are we to question your tried and tested family firelighting methods?

Just as when it comes to how to light a log burner, some techniques do tend to seem to work better than others and here we explain how to build a fire the traditional way. 

How do you prepare your fireplace for a fire?

Before you can begin building your fire, you need to ensure that your chimney has been swept — this should be carried out at least once a year. Not only is this a safety issue, it can invalidate your household insurance if you fail to do this regularly.

You should also clear out any old ashes sitting in the fireplace. It actually doesn't hurt to leave a little bit of old ash but too much can prevent the air flow. Use a fireside dustpan or shovel and brush and consider sprinkling the the ashes round your fruit bushes or on your veg patch. Alternatively, they can be placed in your composter. 

You are now ready to begin.

Should I use newspaper to build a fire?

There are conflicting views on this one. Some people say there is no need to use firelighters if you build the fire well with small, dry pieces of kindling and loosely crumpled balls of newspaper. Others are totally adverse to using newspaper and consider it totally unacceptable as it can create additional soot and ash, instead favouring a simple firelighter and kindling method. Meanwhile, some trailblazers recommend using a combination of newspaper, firelighters and kindling, tucking one or two firelighters into the kindling stack once it has been built. 

With all the fire-starting controversy over using newspaper or not, what do the experts recommend? Here's the verdict from HETAS:

"With the use of a firelighter and a small amount of kindling, a small amount of heat will be produced to warm the flue. Firelighters can be an easier method as they burn at a steady rate, unlike newspaper which can differ depending on its state when burned." 

So it's all about how you scrunch your balls. The use of firelighters can certainly make lighting the fire easier, but it is not absolutely essential, so don't panic if you find yourself without. 

If you do decide to use firelighters, it's worth opting for those made from natural materials such as wood shavings or 'wood wool' where possible.

How do you build a fire the traditional way?

Before getting started, make sure you arm yourself with the right kit. You will need:

• Dry kindling 
• Firewood/logs (you will need some smaller logs and others of a larger size)
• Matches (long are best) or a long-stemmed lighter such as those for lighting gas hobs
• Newspaper (not glossy paper such as that found in magazines or catalogues) and/or
• Firelighters 

Step 1: Crumple up your newspaper into loose balls (anything between two to six should do it depending on the size of your firebasket or grate.) 

Step 2: Use small bits of kindling to surround the newspaper. Some people like to build up a loose criss-cross type structure over the paper, while others prefer the 'tepee' method, arranging the kindling like a pyramid around the newspaper. Both are fine but leave plenty of gaps to allow the fire to 'breathe'.

At this stage, some people like to add one or two small logs on top of the kindling, while others wait to do this until the kindling is blazing. Both methods work well providing the logs you use are dry, well seasoned and not too big.

You could also tuck one or two firelighters into the kindling at this point.

Step 3: Light the paper (or firelighters) at the base of your structure, starting from the back, and concentrating on the edges of the paper balls.

Step 4: Place a fire guard in front of the fire while it gets underway — this is a stage where it is likely to crackle and spit and hot sparks can be dangerous and will damage your flooring too.

Don't leave the fire while it takes light — it is likely that if you placed a small log or two on top of the kindling, they will tumble off at some point and will need readjusting. Use fire tongs for this. You can find fireplace tools fairly cheaply online like this 5-piece set on Wayfair.

Step 5: If you didn't place logs on the kindling when setting the fire, once the kindling is burning well, place one or two small logs on it it now using tongs.

Step 6: The flames are likely to die down a little after the initial blaze and the logs should be left burning as the kindling burns away. If it seems to be struggling, blow gently on at the base, or use bellows to give your fire an oxygen boost. Alternatively, we love this blowpipe from Amazon which not only acts as stoker but also helps to target air to where the fire needs it most. 

Step 7: Once the fire is burning well, add fuel gradually — not too much at once. You can start to use your larger logs when the fire is good and hot.

Finally, remember to replace the fire guard if you leave the room. Again, these are fairly inexpensive to buy and are important to stop sparks spitting out and burning your floor or someone sitting close-by.

What is the upside down method of building a fire?

This is basically the opposite of the traditional method and is actually now commonly recommended as a way of lighting a log burning stoves. The thinking behind it is that it gets the flue up to temperature more quickly meaning less need to open the stove doors to add extra logs so less chance for the combustion chamber to cool.

To carry out the upside method:

Step 1: Lay two smallish logs on the fire bed.

Step 2: Arrange kindling on top of the logs in a criss-cross or pyramid pattern. You can, if you prefer, add a couple of firelighters between the gaps.

Step 3: Open the vents of your stove fully.

Step 4: Light the firelighters and close the door.

Step 4: Adjust the vents or controls so that the fire burns more slowly once the bigger logs are burning.

Step 5: Refuel as necessary.

Although chimney breast removal costs will vary depending on the overall complexity of this job, our guide is here to explain which factors can push prices up and how you can reduce what you spend.

Although proud owners of roaring open fires and log burning stoves may well be left scratching their heads as to why anyone might consider removing a chimney breast, there are some very valid reasons why homeowners tackle this task.  

In some cases, particularly where space is at a premium, chimney breast removal will be the best way to increase the size of a room. This is also a job undertaken by those who have inherited a less than attractive chimney breast, keen to get it out of the way to allow for a new interior design scheme.

Whatever your reasons for taking out a chimney breast, you will undoubtedly want to know how much it is going to cost you. Here, we look at the kind of costs you are likely to be facing so that you can make an informed decision about whether this is a job that is going to be worthwhile for you. 

Which factors affect chimney breast removal cost?

There are several things that will heavily influence the cost of chimney breast removal. So, before getting into the average figures associated with the job, it is useful to ask yourself the following questions:

• Is the chimney breast load-bearing?
• Will you demolish it yourself?
• Which professionals will you be using?
• Will you decorate after the work or hire someone else?
• Is it a ground or first floor chimney?
• Will you be removing an external stack too?
• Will any party structures be affected by the removal?
• Are any gas or electric appliances in place that will need to be removed?

Can you remove a chimney breast yourself?

If you have decided that there are just no chimney breast ideas you like other than getting rid of it entirely, you may well wonder if this is a job you can undertake yourself.

In general, removing a chimney breast is a job best left to the professionals — this is a feature that can alter the structure of a building and as such needs to be done with the upmost care and only after getting advice from a structural engineer.

The correct supports will need to be put in place and the rest of your house will need protecting from the disruption and mess that goes hand in hand with this job — removing a chimney breast is quite different from opening up a fireplace, which is a common job taken on by DIYers.

How much are chimney breast removal costs?

The main influencing factors when it comes to chimney breast removal costs will be the type of chimney breast you are removing and what structural solutions will be required in order for the job to be a success.  

It is crucial that you consult with a structural engineer when undertaking this project — they will ensure the structural integrity of your property remains sound and determine how the chimney breast can be removed in the safest possible way. Even if in your case it is found that the removal of your chimney will not compromise the structure of your walls, you will still need proof of this to show your local authority when it comes to getting the project signed off by building control. 

The works will need to comply with Part A of UK Building Regulations. For some homes, the removal of a chimney doesn’t necessarily affect the strength of your load-bearing walls. Regardless, your local authority will want proof of this.

Although costs will vary, as stated, and your final bill may well be less than this, property expert and Homebuilding & Renovating's Director of Content Michael Holmes recommends you budget around £5,000 for this project, while builder Neil Griffiths of Foxley Building Co estimates that to carry out the job in a Victorian house would cost between £5,000 - £6,000. 

This might sound high, and it may well be possible to have a ground floor chimney breast removed for as little as £1,500, but there are other costs to take into account that will bump the price up. 

These costs will be made up of the following:

• Ground or first floor chimney breast removal: Expect costs, on average, of between £1,500 right up to £3,500, depending on structural requirements, the make-up of your chimney and ventilation requirements. If the chimney breast is non-loadbearing this is likely to be a lot less — as low as £500.
• Chimney stack removal: If the chimney stack (the section of the chimney that can be seen above the roof) also requires removal, expect to pay around £300 per metre for your chimey stack removal cost.
• Building regulations fees: To hire an inspector to approve the removal work you’ll need to pay fees of around £200-220 plus VAT.
• Structural engineer fees: Average hourly rates charged by structural engineers range from between £90 up to £200. For a straightforward project you could expect fees of around £350 - £500.
• Party wall agreement(s): If the chimney is built against a party wall, the works may require a notice to be served and a party wall agreement to be put in place. Expect costs upwards of £700 (plus VAT) per affected neighbour.
• Gas appliance alterations: If the work involves the alteration or removal of a gas appliance, you will need to bring in a Gas Safe Register engineer. Expect to be charged between £50-£100 to remove a gas fire.
• Plastering: Obviously the wall where the chimney breast was will need to be made good after work has finished. Although plasterers' fees vary, expect to pay from around £135 per day.
• Decoration: In order to cut costs, this is one job you might like to undertake on a DIY basis. If not, you will need to call in the pros, which can cost anything upward of £150 per day

How often should you sweep your chimney? This is a common question to ask now that summer is a mere memory and temperatures have taken something of a downward turn.

Owners of open fires and log burning stoves can now get ready to reap the benefits of their cosy heat sources and hopefully put off turning on the central heating for just a little longer. However, for all their benefits, open fires and stoves do need a degree of maintenance if they are to perform at their best. 

Having your chimney swept is a vital part of fireplace maintenance and now is just the time to have it done. We have grilled the experts on how often to have this job carried out and asked what times of year are best. In addition, we have some invaluable tips when it comes to how to look after and maintain your fireplace so that it remains a beautiful, warming focal point all year round.

How often should you sweep your chimney according to the experts?

Just how often should you sweep your chimney? Although there are several factors that can affect the frequency of which this essential home maintenance task should be carried out, there are certain guidelines to pay attention to if you want your fire or stove to perform efficiently and safely. 

Both stoves and open fires need their chimneys swept regularly to ensure there are no blockages or debris — the presence of these will not only have a detrimental effect on how well they perform, but could also put you at risk of a chimney fire. 

All chimneys – including brick, clay, lined and twin-walled – need to be swept regularly, but just how often is recommended? 

“Depending on how often you use your wood burning stove or fireplace, it is recommended to sweep your chimney either once or twice a year, either at the end of the season, or before the next autumn," says Chris Baines, MD at Eurostove Ltd. "With stoves becoming more popular, we recommend you treat the sweeping like a car service, and simply book the next appointment when you have it swept, as chimney sweeps get very booked up.”

"Along with obstructions, soot, deposits and tar can build up in your chimney over time, reducing the draw, making the stove run less efficiently and putting your property at risk of a chimney fire," says Mike Coke, Biomass Products Development Manager at Stovax & Gazco.

"If you are burning wood, ensure your chimney is swept at least twice a year; this can be reduced to once if you are using a multi-fuel stove to burn fuels other than wood. It is also important to have your stove serviced by a qualified installer to ensure you see the best performance from your appliance."

But how about open fires? Do their requirements differ from stoves?

"We usually advise customers that if burning wood, once a year is fine, but with coal, twice a year, as a rule of thumb," says Peter Wright from Federation of British Chimney Sweeps (FBCS).

How often you should have your chimney swept will also depend on how you use it, how often you use it and the type of fuel you are burning — as well as the type of house you live in.

"If, for instance, someone uses their fire 24/7 for several weeks, they may need to have it swept more often," says Peter Wright. "Thatched properties may also be required to have their flues swept quarterly — this will be governed by your insurance company do check.

"Basically, a flue works more efficiently if swept regularly — it's an exhaust system and we all know how polluting an exhaust can be if you do not maintain it."

How do you know when your chimney needs sweeping?

Once you have turned your fireplace ideas into a reality, having your chimney swept regularly should mean that you never run into problems. However, if you are still wondering whether it is time to call in the professional sweeps, there are some tell-tale signs your chimney needs cleaning, including:

• Smoke escaping back into the room
• Soot and debris falling into the stove or fire
• Visible nests at the top of your chimney — or rustling sounds coming from within
• Tar around the flue entrance
• Fire not burning as well as usual
• Strong smell of soot — even when the fire is unlit

Do gas fire chimneys need to be cleaned?

Think a gas stove won't need its chimney sweeping? Even alternatives to fireplaces need looking after. 

While a gas stove will not have the same maintenance requirements as a log burning stove or open fire, the chimney will still need sweeping. Ensure your gas stove has a thorough maintenance check once a year — gas flues are basically exhaust pipes to remove carbon monoxide and if they become blocked this could be extremely dangerous. 

Do chimney cleaning logs work?

You may have seen or heard of chimney sweeping logs, also sometimes called chimney cleaning logs, but what exactly are they and could they actually mean you have to have your chimney swept less often?

Chimney sweeping logs have additives in them which, when burnt, rise into the chimney to dislodge existing creosote deposits and prevent new ones from forming. The idea is that when burnt regularly, these logs trigger a chemical reaction in your chimney, causing creosote build up to flake away and disperse.

Although they can be useful in keeping chimneys cleaner for longer and for making the cleaning process a little less hard-going, they should not be viewed as a substitute for having your chimney swept — something even the manufacturers agree on. 

"Chimney cleaning logs are not to be used as an alternative to a sweep," says Peter Wright. "They may, in some circumstances loosen the tart, but they won't remove it, so I usually advise only to use them when a sweep directs you to in order for them to sweep afterwards — the logic is the tart will be loosened and easier to remove."

When should I have my chimney swept?

Of course if you are renovating and are in the process of opening up a fireplace, chimney sweeping will be something that is top of your list. However, along with guidance on how often you should have your chimney swept, the experts also have an opinion on the best times of year to clean a chimney. 

"If you do not have a chimney guard it is really important to sweep the chimney before your first fire of the autumn as birds love nesting in them where it is nice and cosy," says Chris Baines.

HETAS state that the best times to have your chimney swept are just before the start of the heating season and after your stove has not been used over a prolonged period. 

Can I clean my chimney myself?

Many people keeping an eye on the bank balance may find themselves asking, 'what does a chimney sweep cost?'

Although those trying to make savings can give DIY chimney sweeping a go, there are a few considerations to bear in mind.

Firstly, you will need to invest in all the equipment needed to sweep the chimney — which could well end up costing you the same amount or more as calling in the pros. You will also need to find somewhere to store it.

Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, some household insurance policies require a certificate showing your chimney has been swept by a sweep who is a HETAS Approved Chimney Sweep or a member of a chimney sweeping association such as The Association of Professional Independent Chimney Sweeps (APICS), The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps (GoMCS), The National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) or Sweep Safe. 

And lastly, a good professional sweep won't just clean your chimney. They will also be able to spot other potential problems that you might not notice, such as cracks or essential repairs that need carrying out to ensure your fire or stove performs at its best.  

"A solid fuel stove requires an annual service, which includes stripping and cleaning the appliance thoroughly, and removing all excess ash. It will also need to be checked for any broken or damaged parts that need replacing, and the door glass will need cleaning," says Mike Coke. 

Top fireplace maintenance jobs

In order to keep your stove or fireplace in good working order and looking its best, there are several things you can do. Carry out the following tasks and checks on a regular basis — particularly when lighting the fire regularly. 

• Burn the right type of fuel: Dry seasoned wood or smokeless fuel are the cleanest options. Dry logs (preferably ones that have been seasoned for a year or more) help to avoid tar deposits collecting in the flue and burn more efficiently.
• Clear out ash and debris: Not only will disposing of ash build up regularly mean your fire burns more efficiently but it also improves the look of the fireplace.
• Keep your stove clean: Find out how to clean log burner glass quickly to ensure you can enjoy those flickering flames.
• Have your chimney swept regularly.
• Regularly check seals, openings and your fireplace walls for cracks or damage.

Inglenook fireplaces are charming and eye-catching features that ooze visual warmth and character — but what exactly makes up an inglenook?

When it comes to fireplace ideas, inglenooks might not be the right choice for everyone, particularly those concerned with energy efficiency. However, understanding their design and how to best treat an existing inglenook fireplace is key to ensuring they offer maximum performance as well as looking good.

Our guide explains everything from the origins of the inglenook to modern alternatives to traditional designs so you can ensure this cosy feature offers everything you need for modern-day comfort and practicality. 

What is an inglenook fireplace?

Although the term 'inglenook fireplace' was originally used to describe the spaces on either side of a large open fire, it is now more commonly a term used for the entire recess within a chimney breast that has been opened up to form a large opening (usually up to its entire width.)

With their generous proportions, inglenook fireplaces often feature seating to one or both sides of an open fire with a fire basket.

Openings can be any size, although between 2-3m is fairly common — some are as large as 1.5m high. They also usually feature a timber shelf or mantel above, although some have an attractive brick arch in place of this. 

Inglenook fireplace history

Inglenook fireplaces (sometimes referred to as ‘chimney corners’) came about through the need for a space to both cook and dry clothes in homes as well as to gather around for warmth — the charm they offer now makes them a firm favourite with those after stone fireplace ideas. 

Original inglenook fireplaces functioned as the kitchen in homes, where open plan layouts were common. They featured a hearth on which to cook, along with space on either side, often fitted with benches or seats. Even when kitchens were given their own dedicated rooms, inglenooks continued to be popular features in living rooms and sometimes dining rooms, where they provided a cosy, sociable spot to gather around.

The word 'inglenook' is a combination of the Old English word for fireplace, 'ingle' and 'nook', meaning small space or corner. 

Are inglenook fireplaces energy efficient?

Open fires are not known for their energy efficiency — in fact, they can actually increase heating bills. If you consider that many inglenooks were constructed with huge flues designed to cope with large amounts of heat and smoke that would have been produced by the sizeable open fires beneath, along with cooking fumes and the like, it should come as no surprise to learn that much of the warm air produced by your central heating will be disappearing up that chimney in the winter months. 

When looking at the issue of open fire vs log burner, Tim Pullen, an expert in sustainable building methods and energy efficiency in residential homes, states: "A house with 200m2 floor area and 2.4m ceiling height, with insulation and airtightness to current Building Regs, but with a single open fireplace, will have a peak heat load of 17.5kW and a space heating energy demand of 17,700kWh per year. 

"Remove the fireplace and those figures drop to 10kW peak and 10,500kWh per year. That’s a difference worth about £450 per year."

He also points out the efficiency of open fires (30% efficient) compared to log burners (more than 65% efficient.)

These stats aside, if you are living in a house with an inglenook, it is useful to think of the effect that having what is essentially a large open hole leading to outside will have on the comfort levels of your home when the fire is not burning. 

While devices such as flue blockers, register plates and closure plates can all be used when the fire is not lit, many people choose to look at alternatives to open fires in their inglenooks, such as gas or log burning stoves. 

What modern inglenook fireplace ideas are there?

If you are looking for alternatives to an open fire but like the wow factor that an inglenook fireplace can offer, there are many great ideas to consider. 

One of the most popular ways these days to fill an inglenook fireplace is to fit it with with a stove — log burning, multi-fuel or gas being amongst the most popular options. 

Fitting a log burning stove into an inglenook usually involves installing a stainless steel flexible or rigid flue system into the existing chimney. Using an insulating wrap around the flue liner is also an excellent idea, avoiding the need for backfilling the space around the new flue. Doing this can cause damage to period features — don't forget to factor this in when calculating wood burning stove installation costs. 

Of course modern insulation levels and central heating systems have all but negated the need for supplementary heat sources, so if you like the visual impact of an inglenook you might like to consider using it for something other than a fire or stove. 

Inglenooks make excellent spots for built-in shelving, cosy seating, storage and collections of flickering candles. Consider how you can use lighting to make the most of the feature too — if you are not intending on using it for a fire, you might like to fit recessed LED lights within it or you could fit some uplighters at its base as a nice form of accent lighting. 

Although you may associate stone fireplace ideas with very traditional and grand houses, or with ski lodges surrounded by snowy peaks, don't discount them if it is a more contemporary look you are after — they can work equally well. 

The good news for anyone after fireplace ideas is that there is definitely no shortage of them out there. From elegant and refined to those that are designed to shout loudly from a design perspective in the room they grace. 

Here, we focus on stone fireplace ideas — timeless, durable, elegant and suitable for all kinds of interior design schemes. Take a look through our collection to get your imagination going and you will be well on the way to creating a new focal point in your home that will give an instant hit of character and warmth. 

Selecting the right stone fireplace ideas for your home

Stone fireplaces might be a traditional feature but don't let that fool you into thinking your options will be restricted to old-fashioned or classic designs only. There are literally hundreds of modern options around, from eye-catching tiled fireplace ideas to sleek and simple hole-in-the-wall styles.

Of course there is nothing to say that you can't install an elegant period fireplace in a contemporary home — sometimes this kind of contrast can result in some of the most striking end results. 

Finally, if you are renovating and are lucky enough to discover an original stone fireplace or inglenook hidden away behind the walls, do everything you can to restore it to its former glory — even if you don't intend on using it for an open fire, fitting it with a woodburning stove or simply using it for storage can work just as well. 

1. Use split face stone for a contemporary look

Split face stone tiles are made up of pieces of natural stone, cut into linear strips before being arranged and fixed in a staggered pattern. They give a really striking effect when used as chimney breast ideas, particularly when they reach right from the floor to the ceiling. 

Here, Sparkle Ice Grey Split Face Mosaic Tiles from Tile Mountain have been used. They are designed to be interlocking, meaning they are easy to install, are made from natural metamorphic rock and cost £52.95/m2.

2. Use your fireplace for an elegant finish

Certain features really take the luxury factor of a house up a notch — and a fireplace in the bathroom is most definitely one of them.

If you are lucky enough to have a bathroom fireplace, be sure to use a fresh, elegant design that complements the style of the sanitaryware. In this beautiful bathroom, the Clearwater Lonio Natural Stone Bath is matched perfectly by the painted white and marble swagged design of the fireplace. 

3. Don't discount sandstone in a contemporary setting

Sandstone is a fantastic choice when it comes to fireplace design, being very soft and subtle in its appearance. It has as uncanny knack of being able to slide seamlessly into both classic and contemporary settings and suits both simple designs as well as chunky and more elaborate forms.

The fireplace in this space should prove to anyone looking for modern living room ideas how well this stone can work — it suits the fresh, symmetrical finish of the room perfectly and provides a focal point.

4. Discover the versatility of limestone

Limestone is a stone that can be styled to suit pretty much any kind of interior scheme as it is available in so many colour and pattern varieties. 

Here, a Portuguese limestone has been used, fresh white and with simple lines and gentle curves. Made by Chesneys, the fireplace is designed to fit in with both modern and more traditional spaces — plus it pairs brilliantly with a stove. It costs £1,999.

5. Be bold with an Art Deco design

Art Deco is a style that is all about making a big, bold statements — and with the fireplace taking such an important role as a focal point, this statement can be more pronounced than ever. 

From brave patterns, eye-catching furniture and glamorous flourishes, if you want to make an impression and are drawn to this look, the fireplace is a great place to start. This Deco Fireplace from Haddonstone features bold geometric lines — perfect for classic and contemporary style homes alike. It costs £1,395 including hearth blocks and slips, as well as the top mantel.

6. Create wow with a full-height fireplace

Fireplaces that span from floor to ceiling make instant focal points and, when crafted from a material as beautiful as natural stone, exude elegance and style.

In this renovation project, the striking Bath stone fireplace in the bedroom had been covered up behind plasterboard before the lucky owners discovered it and brought it back up to scratch. 

7. Combine wood and marble for a fresh scheme

Combining stone with other materials can not only look brilliant, but it is also a good option for those on a budget who might be concerned about the price tag of a solid stone fireplace or who are looking for matelpiece ideas with a difference. Timber and cast iron are popular materials to use with stone.

Here, a white-painted timber mantel has been used in conjunction with a marble fire surround for a beautifully simple and fresh result. 

8. Cut costs with a cast stone fireplace

Solid stone fireplaces are not the cheapest option — although they really enhance a home. A slightly more cost-effect choice is to opt for a cast stone fireplace instead. 

Cast stone is durable and strong and also looks great. Made from natural aggregates, a cementitious binder, water and pigments for colour, many fireplaces are now made from this material. 

Haddonstone's Louis XV Fireplace, is made from cast stone and features a shaped apron, mouldings and shell decoration. It costs £1,795.

9. Appreciate the beauty of marble

Marble comes in all kinds of colours and patterns, making it a great material for fireplaces of all shapes and styles. 

In this example, The Chedworth, from Chesneys, made from Derbyshire quarried Ball Eye Blue, has been used along with English Portland stone mouldings. It is shown here with a slate hearth and their Soho polished steel fire basket which has been paired with the Alchemy Bioethanol log fire. It costs between £2,295 – £4,980 depending on the material selection. 

10. Go for modern style with a stone hole-in-the-wall fireplace

Not all stone fireplaces are classic in their design — in fact, some of the most contemporary designs around are made from stone. From hole-in-the-wall styles to sleek and simple cubist surrounds, stone is a very versatile material. 

Here, the chimney breast has been clad in marble, with a long, narrow slot style fireplace housing a striking coal-effect firebed. 

11. Keep it classic and simple

Your fireplace need not steal all the attention in your living room. Sometimes, it is better to have several focal points rather than just one and this is where a more subtle, classic fireplace design is preferable. 

This Classic Fireplace, from Haddonstone, is part of their Robert A.M. Stern Collection and is made from their TecLite material to make installation easier. It costs £1,349, including hearth. 

12. Combine a woodburner with a stone hearth

If it is fireplace hearth ideas you are after, you should seriously consider stone — it is one of the best hearth materials around. 

When selecting a hearth for use with a stove, bear in mind that it should be raised from the normal floor finish to identify it, and project at least 50mm from the stove sides and 300mm from the front of the stove.

The hearth here is from Haddonstone and is made from cast stone. It costs £305.

13. Take care when restoring original features

If you are lucky enough to find an original fireplace in your renovation project, do all you can to save it. Opening up a fireplace is a job that many people undertake on a DIY basis and very often it can simply be a case of prising off a sheet of old hardboard to reveal a hidden feature.

This beautiful old Bath stone fireplace had been covered with plasterboard and has been restored to its former glory.  

There are many alternatives to fireplaces out there but some are most certainly better than others. 

There are also several reasons why people hunt for these alternatives to fireplace ideas — the main ones being because they have no chimney, live in a smokeless zone or simply don't want the hassle that setting, maintaining and cleaning an open fire or wood burning stove can entail. 

We have been busy looking for the best fireplace alternatives around: from those that still provide a cosy heat source, to creative ideas for using a now redundant opening. These are our top five fireplace alternatives.

1. Opt for an easy electric fireplace

If you want a cosy focal point that still emits a good amount of heat, then an electric fireplace or stove may well be the best option for you. 

In addition to being cheap to buy, electric log burners are also easy to install on a DIY basis. In the majority of cases, all that is needed is to plug them into a regular electrical socket. 

Electric fires give off no fumes and don't need a chimney so whether you have an existing fire opening or simply want to create a point of interest on a bare wall; they are a brilliant option. 

In terms of the heat they give off, don't expect them to kick out as much as you would get from an open fire, a wood burning stove or a gas stove. They do, however, work as a good secondary heat source in a room and provide a warming glow. 

2. Consider a bioethanol fireplace

More and more people are turning to bioethanol fireplaces in place of open fires or wood burning stoves these days, drawn by their low maintenance requirements, the wide range of styles available and the fact you still get a living flame to gaze at on those frosty winter nights. 

Bioethanol fireplaces use, as the name suggests, bioethanol as a fuel. This is a liquid fuel made by fermenting the sugar and starch elements of waste plant products, such as sugar cane and maize. This is then distilled in order to purify it and enhance its alcohol content. 

This style of fireplace features a firebox (or combustion chamber, as it is sometimes known) into which the bioethanol is poured — there is often a heat output control on the firebox too. While on the subject of heat, don't expect the same kind of output as you would from an open fire or stove.

Other than that, the design of a bioethanol fireplace can take pretty much whatever form you fancy, from traditional-looking firebaskets containing false coals or logs, to hole-in-the-wall design inserts with ceramic pebble firebeds, wall-mounted models and even freestanding fires that look like works of art  — plus many can be controlled via a remote control or smart device. 

In terms of cost, they start from around £150, although some of the very design-led models can easily come in at closer to £800+. No chimney is required for a bioethanol fireplace.

3. Enjoy real flames with a gas stove

Another fantastic alternative to a fireplace is a gas stove — a popular choice amongst those wondering, 'can you have a log burner without a chimney?' 

Gas stoves can be fitted into an existing fireplace opening or anywhere else you fancy, being available in wall-mounted designs or freestanding models, as well as more traditional styles. 

They are ideal if it is real flames you crave, won't require you a supply of logs or kindling and you won't need a chimney — plus they give off a good amount of heat.

Cost-wise, they can be picked up for as little as a few hundred pounds, although more stylish designs can creep up to over £1,000. 

For all their benefits, don't forget that you will require a good ventilation source in order to live safely with a gas stove and you must ask a Gas Safe registered engineer to install it, in order to comply with Building Regulations. 

4. Skip the fire altogether

Just because you have an existing fire opening, it doesn't mean you have to fill it with a heat source or a look-a-like fire — there are some really stylish and imaginative ways to treat redundant fire openings that are both useful and eye-catching. 

One of the most popular ways to fill an empty fireplace is to use neatly stacked logs for a cosy cabin look. Although this is an idea we love, if you want to avoid dusting the logs or finding spiders have decided your fireplace looks like somewhere they want to call home, there are alternatives.

You could create a similar look by boarding over the opening and affixing log-effect tiles or wallpaper. Or, how about fitting the opening with useful shelving for books or ornaments? Many people who still want flickering flames simply place a selection of candles of various heights here instead. 

5. Build a media wall

Media walls are hugely popular at present, packing in all of your media equipment in one place and designed to become a stylish focal point, as well as an incredibly useful addition in living rooms. 

Media walls are much more than a TV mounted on the wall — they can also house all the cabling for a television and any associated boxes and devices, as well as games consoles and handy shelving, drawers and cupboards — plus, you guessed it, this also makes the perfect spot for a heat source.

Electric fires make sense when it comes to media walls as they don't produce excessive heat that will rise up and affect equipment — many models are designed to be operated with no heat at all while still producing realistic flames. 

Fireplace ideas shouldn't just be about keeping you warm and cosy in the colder winter months — they should also help to create character and a strong focal point. 

In many period homes, getting living room fireplace ideas right is key, as these spaces tend to be arranged around the fireplace — this is how the former owners used to keep warm, after all. This means it's an important part of your overall design to get right, whether you're hoping to introduce a log burning stove, a gas or electric fire or no fire at all. 

If you're building a new home or extension however, your options are much more open when it comes to designing a fireplace into your home. Recent years have seen large, open space zoned using fireplaces and stoves, which to add character and visual warmth. 

Including creative uses of alcoves, interior design-led schemes and top tips for modernising existing fireplaces, we've collected a range of styles and sizes to spark some inspiration. 

How to choose fireplace ideas for your home

Everyone will have a different idea of how they want their fireplace to look and work and the fireplace ideas you're able to make use of in your home may depend quite heavily on what you're working with. If you're building a new home, the world may be your oyster, but not all new builds incorporate a traditional chimney breast fireplace, and often freestanding stoves are a more economical use of space in this instance. 

If you do have an existing fireplace in your home, there's no guarantee that previous owners will have retained the original fireplace which could mean opening up a fireplace. However, finding a new fireplace shouldn't be too much of an issue. Modern fireplaces are relatively easy to find, while you'll be able to pick up original fireplaces from places like salvage yards or even from social media marketplaces, where people are renovating period houses. 

1. Add a touch of luxury with marble

Marble is known for being a luxurious material, adding a touch of opulence and sophistication to the spaces it graces. 

Despite being a material often used in classic-style homes and one that was popular with the Georgians, there are ways of using marble that result in some highly modern fireplace ideas. 

Cullifords' range of natural stone fireplaces include this Bianco Covelano Marble which looks great used in combination with dark surfaces. 

2. Draw attention with a modern double-sided model

A double-sided fireplace is a great way of breaking up or zoning open plan spaces, resulting in a focal point that can be enjoyed from more than just one room.

The owners of this 18th century barn conversion were keen that the new interior scheme would not detract from the original features of the agricultural building and so opted for a clean, minimalist approach. 

A double-sided fireplace acts as a divide between the split level open plan spaces and lends a crisp finish to the interiors. 

3. Open up a fireplace in a renovation project

When renovating a house, it is not uncommon to discover old fireplaces underneath layers of plasterboard and brick — opening up and taking the time to get to grips with restoring a fireplace allows these treasures to be showcased in a living space or bedroom and really let the building's history shine. 

This Victorian fireplace was opened up and carefully modernised with a contemporary colour treatment which matches the wall behind. 

4. Highlight any original features for character

Every renovator hopes they will find original features and fittings within a period home and to discover an authentic fireplace will set you well on the way to ensuring your home is full of charm and character. 

The owners of this 250-year-old former fisherman's cottage were delighted to find the original range, complete with baker's oven, in-situ and were careful to bring it back up to scratch. 

5. Go ultra glam with moody marble

Prized for its natural beauty, intricate veining and luxurious appearance, marble is the idea material for creating a focal point such as a fireplace.

For this striking, modern open fire, an elegant grey marble fireplace, from Cullifords, was chosen. The result is a fireplace that manages to add plenty of character and warmth to the room while still looking ultra contemporary. 

6. Use a double-sided fireplace to break up a space

When looking at how to convert a barn, it can be hard to know how to approach the interior fit-out in a way that will allow the original structure of the building to shine without leaving the spaces feeling empty or lacking in warmth.  

The owners of this previously dilapidated barn needed to come up with solutions to zone the 18-metre-long living space while retaining sightlines through one space into another. 

The space has been broken up with a double-sided Omega Platinum fire by Xen Design. 

7. Turn your fireplace into a decorative feature

After some alternatives to fireplaces? There is no reason why you have to fit an existing fireplace with an open fire or stove — it is still possible to turn it into a focal point using other techniques. 

In this period renovation project, the owners were keen to introduce plenty of colour and individuality to each room and here the fireplace has been highlighted thanks to the pastel pink and white diagonal paint effect used for its interior. 

8. Add charm to a bathroom 

Including original features into your bathroom design ideas can really help add personality and a touch of the unexpected into the space. 

There is no reason why a bathroom should not have the same character and warmth as other spaces in your home and including a fireplace in your interior scheme can really help with this. 

In this renovated Victorian house one of the bathrooms has been relocated and features the original cast iron fireplace. 

9. Incorporate fireplace ideas into the interior scheme

Fireplaces make amazing focal points in a room, so if your interior scheme is swaying towards neutral, inject some personality with an eye-catching surround, mantel or hearth to draw attention. 

Delicate stone or even tiled fireplace ideas can create this effect, or for a more flexible option choose a striking paint scheme to build a contrast. 

This pared-back oak framed living room incorporated a granite fire surround to showcase the bioethanol fireplace inset. 

10. Skip the fireplace and go for a freestanding stove 

Get creative with your home's take on a traditional fireplace by installing a freestanding stove with a bold hearth for an ultra-modern appearance. 

"For a modern-inspired scheme, a fireplace isn’t always necessary, especially if you choose contemporary design," advises Jon Butterworth of Arada. "Freestanding stoves can be installed almost anywhere in the home, but you will need to consider its proximity to other surfaces and objects in the room before going ahead."

Fireplace hearth ideas can include stones flush to the floor, as in the above example, or a raised platform to make the stove the centre of attention at eye level. 

11. Double up on fireplace ideas for twice the comfort

If you're extending to the side of your living room, or have a room adjacent which shares the chimney breast, a great design idea is to add a double-sided stove. 

Not only is it an unusual feature for a modern home, but also provides value for money and optimal enjoyment from every angle. 

This brick fireplace idea has been incorporated into not one, but two rooms of this bungalow extension. Plus, the heat from the stove warms not just one, but two rooms in the house. 

12. Get the proportions right when designing a fireplace

If you're designing from scratch or updating an existing fireplace, the key is to ensure the chimney breast ideas, surround and mantel (if you're having one) are proportional to the room as a whole. 

This is especially true of modern fireplaces, where styles and trends might adapt and change how you feel about a certain shape — just think about the garish brick and stone clad beasts of the '50 and '70s. 

While wide and putting a twist on traditional inglenook fireplaces, this contemporary fireplace blends seamlessly into the room at large. 

13. Paint the fire surround the same colour as the walls  

Painting the fireplace surround the same colour as the walls is an interesting tactic, as it visually blends into the background but still retains its form and texture and continues to frame the fireplace. 

Incorporating mantelpiece ideas alongside this design, such as complementing books, objects or even a mirror will break up the block of colour for a pleasing result. 

14. Conceal a TV above a fireplace

If you can avoid it, don't put your TV over a fireplace, as it draws too much attention. You don't want a bit of oversized tech to be your focal point, after all. 

However, if it's unavoidable, placing the TV on the dark wall means it is slightly concealed, putting full attention back on the stove below. 

15. Install a stove in an existing fireplace

Undeniably a smart move for those who enjoy the vibrancy of a real fire, but are conscious of the sub-optimal efficiency of an open fire, a log burning stove can be much more efficient addition to an existing fireplace.  

"Safety should be your first priority when installing any appliance in the home but none more so than with a wood burning or multi-fuel stove," advises Jon Butterworth, director at Arada Stoves. 

"Building Regulations stipulate strict minimum distances between a stove and its surroundings to reduce the risk of household fires and therefore protect property and its inhabitants," he continues. "Each individual stove will come with pre-approved measurements that your fitter will refer to when recommending the right design for your home setting.” 

16. Create a focal point with an exposed brick fireplace 

When it comes to a classic fireplace idea, you can't get much better than an exposed brick fireplace. It's a design that works for both traditional and modern homes and, in the right home, it's a relatively easy job to uncover your brickwork. 

However, before you go pulling off plaster to expose the brick underneath, bear in mind the brick may not be what you're expecting, or be in the best condition. It's a calculated risk, but one that might see you looking for a plasterer to re-instate the wall. 

If you think your home's brick might not be up to scratch, you could also consider creating an exposed brick fireplace with brick slips, thinly cut brick tiles that will look like the real thing when adhered to the wall. 

17. Look to the corner for fireplace inspiration

Locating a fireplace in a corner is a great way to open it up to the room, particularly if you've chosen an open plan living space. 

This two-sided fire is lined by a contemporary anthracite frame while a monochrome tile and stone plinth elevate the design to a unique feature. 

Corner log burner ideas are also on the rise, so take a look at some engenius inspiration to get your plan in motion. 

18. Reinstate period charm with the right fireplace

If you live in a period home that has been stripped of its features at some point in its life, consider sourcing a period fireplace to restore some of the home's charm.  

“I’d always recommend sticking to the period of the house when looking to purchase a fireplace," says Owen Pacey, founder of Renaissance London, specialists in fireplace restoration. "This ensures that the styles align and the fireplace will look like it’s always been there."

But how do you know what the right type is for your home? "The ground floor of Victorian properties always used to have a marble or slate fireplace and later on in the Edwardian era, slate became much more popular. My go-to material would always be marble, however, as it is generally very durable."

19. Centre a fireplace in the room for real wow-factor  

If you're self building or building an extension, don't be limited to the idea that a fireplace is solely a chimney breast against a wall. 

Modern fireplace designs allow for interesting set-ups, including this design with a fireplace creating the divide between living and dining area in this broken-plan space. 

But how can you have a fireplace with no chimney for wood smoke? Simply, don't get a wood burning fire. Modern bioethanol fireplaces are great as they don't need extraction as there's is no smoke, while still giving you the joy of a real fire in your home. 

20. Use your mantlepiece to add character 

Fireplaces are often located in sitting rooms and snugs, where the warm crackle of a fire is a hug on a cold winter night. So, make sure the surrounding areas of your fireplace are as welcoming as the open fire or log burner in your space. 

Adding an oversized wooden mantel is one place to start as the visual appeal of timber against any coloured background will instantly add character. 

Carefully considering where to place essentials for stoking the fire will also lead to fireplace success. Create dedicated spots for extra logs, kindling and pokers to live on or around the hearth with log store ideas such as baskets and decorative buckets. 

21. Modernise a fireplace with a colour pop

Bring any fireplace up to date with a pop of colour — a cost-effective yet eye-catching idea that works wonders in this renovated farmhouse. 

The small living room ideas masterfully balance the period detailing of the stone hearth and antique stove while no changes in the room can't be undone and restored to its original aesthetic. 

22. Make the most of fireplace alcoves

Fireplace chimney breasts are frequently a bulky intrusion in a room, creating strange recesses either side of the feature that can feel a little lost. The rather obvious solution is to find the right fireplace alcove ideas that would work best for your living room. 

These often-awkward spots can be given a purpose, be that built-in cupboard storage, shelving for treasured objects or books and even provide an additional source of living room lighting, as here. 

The trick to these spaces is keeping a design simple, anything too busy will make a living room or snug feel boxed in. 

23. Add personality to electric fireplaces

Electric fires, while without the inherent visual appeal of a gas or solid fuel stove, are a cost-effective way to shake up elements in a living room or snug. 

Add instant charm to an electric fire by installing an oak beam or mantel above the fire for an interesting fireplace finish. 

Alternatively, invest in the latest generation of electric products — some of the best electric log burners also include an intricate steam that evokes the smoke from a real fire.

24. Consider a stone fireplace

Using stone fireplace ideas can provide a sleek, natural design."Natural stone is the ideal choice for a fireplace surround. Thanks to its natural composition, it is resistant to heat and can withstand temperatures of up to 300ºC, so you can have it as your surround without fear of damage," explains Hege Lundh, marketing director at Lundhs Real Stone. 

"It is also incredibly easy to maintain and so easy to clean. If you are working with an open fire, consider placing a slab of natural stone in front as your hearth as well as this will not only tie the whole aesthetic together but it will also serve as a good protection from any debris from the fire.”

25. Add a splash of colour with a tiled fireplace

Use tiled fireplace ideas as an opportunity to create colour and material variation in a room. “Tiling is a popular choice, especially for characterful homes. Ceramic tiles withstand heat well and are durable, so make the perfect choice for any fireplace. Available in various sizes, colours and finishes they offer the homeowner an unparalleled choice of styles." says Arada's Jon Butterworth. 

"We would suggest a gap of at least 100mm is maintained from the stove body to any non-combustible materials to aid the convection of heat out of any fireplace. Squeezing too large a stove into a small opening is an often repeated mistake and should be avoided.” 

These pale blue tiles (from Walls and Floors) have raw edges for a rustic finish that blends perfectly with the exposed brick and black painted walls. 

26. Get creative with a modern fireplace

The key to a successful contemporary fireplace is to consider the proportions of the room and how this can be best showcased using modern materials and stylings. 

If your room is wide, consider emphasising this with an exaggerated surround and raised hearth — the image above masterfully contrasts a blackened steel design with the charming barn timbers to a great effect. 

If you are dealing with a slim space, could dramatic chimney breast ideas which include architectural details or reach the ceiling create an interesting focal point? 

27. Renovate an original open fireplace

Sadly in many renovation projects original fireplaces have often been removed or boxed in. Where the latter is the case, try to save what is left of an authentic chimney and fire by opening up a fireplace which has been blocked. 

In homes affected by mid-century tastes which led to gas and electric fires being installed, explore how to replace a gas fire with a woodburner. 

28. Whitewash a dated brick fireplace

Although older properties may be blessed with attractive brick colours, that is not always the case and we have seen all kinds of dated combinations over the years — from red brick with black mortar to grey all over. 

Using the best masonry paint you can find, leaving a brick chimney breast exposed and whitewashing or painting to a more contemporary colour can often do the trick when updating or modernising without very much effort or cost.  

This all-white kitchen is beautifully warmed by the slight tint to the brick fireplace left after whitewashing. While the brick fireplace ideas match the overall design scheme, the old reception room is now a characterful kitchen thanks to this quick treatment. 

29. Inset a fireplace into built-in storage

In smaller homes where every inch matters for storage, combine the two and integrate an inset stove and flue into a larger boxed-in storage unit for a sleek, pared back finish.

This eye-catching design features a raised concrete plinth which seems to extend from the polished concrete floor and provides a handy spot of the log basket while the wooden pocket door cupboards to the left conceal the TV. 

30. Change position with a gas fireplace

Gas fires are incredibly convenient when compared to stoves and open fires which can often feel like a full time job to keep lit and warm. A warming fire can appear at the touch of a button, or even controlled remotely and are easily installed in a connect home.

Height and location are often down to the homeowners preferences (with units such as this which require no recess). While this may sound like the possibilities are endless, the fact remains that fireplaces are best positioned in more intimate spaces, such as snugs or sitting areas in open plan spaces.

31. Add a fresh look with timber fireplace surrounds

Adding a fire surround can be a quick update to any fireplace. Traditional surrounds can include all manner of tiled designs to add something special into the room, while more contemporary styles, such as this wood-effect surround, can be pared with a dark hearth and backing for a vibrant, scandi design.

Make sure the wood or veneer is of decent quality in a fireplace surround to ensure a fresh look thats worth the time and money and keep the new surround in proportion with the room, lest the 'focal feature' become overwhelming and garish.

32. Create a fireplace without a fire

Now this might seen like an oxymoron, but in modern, more efficient homes fireplaces can be redundant and a real fire seldom lit and blocking up or removing a fireplace can often be a wise decision.

However, that's not to mean fire-less fireplaces can't provide a function, be it alongside your interior scheme or as interesting storage.

Install small shelves for books and trinkets, fill with decorative logs or simply add visual warmth by using inset candles or LED strip lights.

33. Create a chimney breast wall

Vaulted ceilings are quickly becoming a firm favourite in modern homes and extensions, and can be found in many a period property so treat them with the grandeur they deserve.

Combine show-stopping chimney breast ideas with your fireplace design for something truly special that can be enjoyed year-round, not just in the colder months.

This self-build ingeniously utilises the double-height chimney breast to disguise the flue of the inset stove, provide alcoves and a raised hearth for storage. Most importantly, however, the kitchen and dining areas are located behind the chimney breast and away from the sitting area.

34. Use cladding for a feature fireplace 

Fireplaces can be clad in all kinds of interesting materials to make them a design feature of your space. 

One brilliant idea is to use a material such as hardy granite or quartz, pictured here in Sensa from Cosentino, which allows you to create the look of a dramatic slab of stone in one piece, retaining the beautiful veining with no visual breaks. 

35. Source a characterful fireplace to make a statement  

Reclaimed fireplaces can be found from all kinds of sources, from scrapyards and reclamation centres to online marketplaces on social media. These period designs are more likely to be detailed in a way that many modern fireplaces aren't, and so can bring some real flair to a room design. 

This fireplace, sourced by antique fireplace specialists Renaissance London, transforms what is otherwise quite a simple room by giving it a sense of grandeur and history. 

36. Be period appropriate when choosing a surround

Fireplaces are a distinctive feature to include in a renovation project. Choose wisely to ensure the style and detailing is appropriate for the time and the results will speak for themselves. 

This doesn't just relate to a period farmhouse, but also to mid-century and contemporary homes.

For instance, Art Deco fireplaces are very distinctive, often featuring concentric ridges while also monolithically sized. Choosing an Art Deco fireplace over an alternative design from another period will instantly set the scene for your scheme, allowing you to commit to this glamorous, decorative style in full. 

37. Go for a simple, classic fireplace idea

Traditional fireplaces for solid fuel, gas or woodburning stoves are generally made up of two hearths (one front and one back), a fire surround and, last but not least a chimney breast. 

While more can be added for decoration or for various practical reasons, use these of your starting point when looking for fireplace ideas to spark a design. 

A minimalist yet timeless look has been created for this log burner by using a stone hearth with no mantle or fire surround, meaning the stove does all of the work to add character and warmth to the interior. 

38. Remodel an existing ugly duckling

Existing fireplaces aren't to everyone's tastes but there are certainly steps homeowners can take to makeover and update an ugly duckling. 

Plastering, tiling, brick cladding or even painting can drastically remedy a dated fireplace. 

In this mid-century home the renovators knocked through from the hallway and kitchen areas into the dining room, but utilised the large fireplace and chimney breast to carefully divide the spaces. Ideas such as this are the difference between a functional space and an utterly unique home that provides visual interest. 

39. Mix and match styles for a welcoming finish

There's no rule in any interior design book that means styles have to be rigidly adhered to, so shake things up a bit by combining ideas that inspire you. It is afterall, your home. 

In this example, a unique fire surround, inset log burner and Scandi-inspired hearth are paired with a modern take on a log basket, creating an individual and timeless fireplace. 

40. Consider an open fireplace for a cosy room

While woodburning stoves offer a certain charm, an open fire is without a doubt one of life's simple pleasures. 

This characterful fire pit creates an alternative to a regimented and boxed in fireplace — and it beautifully completes the cosy aesthetic to the rest of the room. 

41. Transform a stone fireplace with a modern insert

Although recent trends drifted away from larger stone-clad chimney breasts, the current love of mixing mid-century and modern styles definitely works to the advantage of inter-war homes. 

Striking the perfect balance, this living room stays true to it's '60s roots while adding some modern pizzazz in the form of a gas insert. 

42. Create a slate fireplace using slips or cladding

Introducing another material into a living room or open plan scheme adds to the sense of tactility and visual interest. 

Slate is particularly beautiful alongside a fire as the irregular surface will catch the light and cast shadows. 

The slate fireplace here is the perfect modern counterpoint to the traditional oak frame structure of the home and it's easy to create using a modern stone cladding system. 

If you're searching for fireplace ideas that involve very little fuss, you could find yourself coming across bioethanol fireplaces. Low maintenance, suitable for installation in any type of home and available in a variety of different styles, on paper they could seem like the perfect solution.

But are they a really a suitable alternative to other types of fires or stoves or is their purpose more suited to design and decorative reasons than for warming your home?

We asked the experts to explain a little more about how they work, how much heat they provide and what you need to take into account when installing one to see if it is the right solution for your home.

Bioethanol fireplaces and bioethanol stoves: Is there a difference?

Bioethanol fireplaces and bioethanol stoves are simply different types of bioethanol fires which are designed to replicate other types of woodburning heating sources such as log burning stoves.

In both cases the device will contain a firebox (also called a combustion chamber) which contains the fuel, usually in a ceramic wool, that absorbs the fuel and allows it to burn in a safe and controlled way.

Manufactured to resemble traditional or modern fireplace ideas, bioethanol fireplaces are inset into a fireplace surround. Bioethanol stoves on the other hand look like log burners, and if homeowners are looking to imitate a real wood burner with a top flue, some models offer a flue collar that can be connected to the top of the stove and single wall flue pipe, in the same way as traditional log burner ideas.

Other styles such as freestanding, ceiling mounted and table top versions of bioethanol fires are also available.

Shop these bioethanol fire ideas

What is bioethanol fuel?

"A bioethanol stove or fire utilises bioethanol fuel derived from renewable sources like plants," explains Joanna Humphreys, fire and stove specialist at Direct Stoves. "The primary advantage of these stoves is that they don't produce smoke or soot which means no chimney or flue is necessary.

"What's more," she adds, "bioethanol burns clearly, meaning it's a friendlier option for the environment compared to traditional wood or multi-fuel stoves. "

In general, the liquid fuel is manufactured by fermenting the sugar and starch elements of waste plant products such as sugar cane, straw and maize, amongst many others, and distilling the resulting liquid to purify it and enhance the alcohol content.

It was first developed on an industrial scale in Brazil as a road vehicle fuel when it was known as ethanol, the bio being added later, presumably to enhance its marketing potential. As such it qualifies as a renewable energy source.

When bioethanol is burnt in air the only emissions are water vapour and CO2. There is no smoke, no particulates and no carbon monoxide, meaning that it does less damage to air quality. The CO2 emitted is the same CO2 that was absorbed by the plants used to make the bioethanol, plants that took months to grow.

Installing a bioethanol fire

"One of the most enticing features of a bioethanol stove is the ease with which it can be installed," says Joanna Humphreys. "Installing a log burner on the other hand can require complex planning, and installation may be disruptive.

"The straightforward nature of bioethanol stove installation reduces potential installation fees, and allows for quicker setup, letting you enjoy its benefits sooner.

In all cases there is no need for a flue or chimney or a specific air supply. The effect of this is that in a new build the cost of building a chimney is saved and in an existing house the stove or open fire can be sited in the existing fireplace (and the chimney blocked to improve thermal efficiency).

"Bioethanol stoves in particular are offer homeowners the freedom to place their stoves wherever they see fit," confirms Joanna Humphreys. "This is because no chimney is needed. This freedom grants an amazing opportunity to customise your living space, making them also suitable for bedroom ideas as well as living room ideas. Whether you're considering a minimalistic design or want to highlight the stove as a prominent feature in your room, the range of choices makes it easy to fully realise your interior visions."

Heat output of bioethanol fires

While the benefits of bioethanol fireplaces are the lack of emissions and their easy installation, it is fair to say that the biggest downside is the small amount of heat they produce. While they give the appearance of producing roaring flames and heat, the amount they do produce is small compared to their log burning counterparts.

“The exact amount of heat you’ll get from a bioethanol stove will vary from model to model," says Joanna Humphreys. "The vast majority of bioethanol stoves stocked at Direct Stoves for example, have a heat output of around 1kW.

"To put this into context, a room with a 5m by 5m floor area in a new build house will need around 1.4kW in order to feel warm on a typical winter’s day. This means that bioethanol stoves are a great supplementary heat source and ideal for taking the chill out of a room.

"However, they shouldn’t be relied upon as the primary source of heat for your home," says Joanna Humphreys. "We like to think of bioethanol stoves as being a great way of keeping a room warm during the day, in between the central heating turning off in the morning and it turning back on again in the evening.”

Other companies such as Arada Stoves do have bioethanol stoves which produce more heat, up to around 2.5kW which can be more than an electric fire and a similar amount to a gas fire. Always check the heat output before you purchase a bioethanol fire or stove to make sure it will be sufficient for your needs.

In comparison, a wood burning stove is likely to have a maximum heat output over 5kW, which will vary with the amount of wood in the stove and the quality of that fuel.

The reality is that a wood burning stove may be well more suited to an existing or older home if you are looking for a stronger supplementary heat source, but a bioethanol stove could be a good option in a modern self build homes, providing the charm of a fireplace without compromising the home's airtightness with a chimney.

Or, perhaps like myself, you live in an apartment in which case they could be a great addition if you're simply looking for a touch of extra heat and the illusion of a more cosy living space.

Bioethanol fireplace costs

In terms of the bioethanol fire or stove, the cost will vary depending on the style and size you choose. Small table top versions can cost as little as £180, while costs for larger models can easily reach upwards of £900.

In terms of fuel, you don't need a permanent supply which means you can purchase it as required. Experts at Arada Stoves suggest the burn time from a standard 1 litre bottle of fuel is around 4 to 5 hours. By reducing the size of the opening of the stove’s closure plate, the burn rate can also be slowed down for longer burn times.

Bioethanol fuel costs upwards of £7 per litre. The additional cost benefits are that the nature of all these machines means that there are no maintenance issues and installing them does not need the services of a professional – other than in the case of ceiling mounted versions where you may need a general handyman to ensure it is installed safely.

Buy bioethanol fuel online in bulk

FAQs

Are bioethanol fireplaces safe?

Bioethanol is an inflammable liquid and therefore needs to be treated with caution. But no more than needs be exercised with a gas fire or filling the car with petrol. There are really only common sense rules around the fuel:

• Don’t store the fuel near the fire and away from children
• Don’t store large quantities of fuel
• Don’t try to refill the firebox when the fire is lit or still hot (many devices prevent this happening)
• Don’t overfill the firebox

Arada Stoves also offer the following guidelines. Only use in rooms above 25m2, be sure not to place them too close to walls or small alcoves, still ensure you have a carbon monoxide alarm fitted and try to avoid placing them near strong draughts as this will impact the fuel efficiency.

If a bioethanol fireplace simply won't provide you with enough heat but you like the idea of a more modern solution, check out these corner log burner ideas instead, many of which offer a contemporary solution to your heating needs.