Basic HTML Version
two adjacent sides are open, or a more contemporary three-faced design, in which only one
side is masonry and the other three sides are open. Multi-sided fireplaces, while less efficient
heaters, are often treated as sculptural elements, moving into a room to be adorned as an
object in space, or acting as a room divider. For locations where a chimney or flue cannot
be built, vent-less gas/gel fireplaces are an option. While this low-cost alternative to a vented
fireplace does allow for installation in a previously impossible location, they are prone to soot
output in rooms.
While beautiful, masonry fireplaces are very heavy and expensive to build. Traditionally
made of reinforced concrete or CMU block and veneered in fire brick, this style of construc-
tion requires a concrete foundation to support the heavy weight of the fireplace and chimney.
Manufactured metal fireboxes and flues are a cost effective lightweight alternative to traditional
masonry fireplaces and don’t require foundations for support. For a masonry look without the
weight, a company called Isokern offers fireplace and chimney systems made of volcanic
pumice, clad in firebrick on site. This allows for a custom finish, giving the appearance of a
true masonry fireplace without the weight and foundation requirements of one.
Frequency of use and maintenance are major factors when choosing a fuel source. The
traditional wood-burning fireplace has its ambiance, but at a price. Wood collection and stor-
age, lighting the fire along with ash removal and chimney cleaning are all necessary parts of
this. Additionally, the installation of wood-burning fireplaces has been banned in some cities
(such as Laguna Beach) due to smoke pollution. As an alternative, gas log sets have come
a long way, with higher end units mimicking many real wood features. Unlike wood-burning
fireplaces, these log sets require no clean up and can be wired to turn on with a light switch
or remote control.
Contemporary fireplaces both indoor and outdoor have been deconstructed to the purest ele-
ment of flame alone. Natural gas or fireplace gel creates a flame that is often seen on its own,
or through a bed of sand, glass or metal sculpture.
The fireplace mantel allows for freedom of expression. Just as fireplaces are typically the
focal point in a room, mantels are the center of attention, about which furniture is arranged
and design cues are taken. While the mantel started out as a simple hood to collect smoke, it
has transformed into a decorative element ranging from simple to opulent. Regardless of style,
every fireplace requires noncombustible material surrounding the opening. Typically fireplace
surrounds require 8” to 16” of noncombustible material on the sides and 12” at the top for
mantels with projections of 1½” or more. Although drywall is popular in more modern applica-
tions, plaster, brick, tile, stone and marble are more common fireplace surround materials.
A fireplace’s presence is defined by its mantel, whether minimalistic, floating, or on legs,
scale and proportion are crucial. Reclaimed mantels, beautifully carved out of limestone and
marble are becoming more popular. Although pricey and requiring custom-built fireboxes to
fit each unique case, these mantels lend an old world air of sophistication and elegance to a
room in ways few other pieces can.
Though now a luxury more than a necessity, fireplaces will remain an enduring legacy, re-
minding us of creature comforts and simpler times when home was where the hearth is.
s t ructures
winter
|
spr ing
107
(photo: Mary E. Nichols | Architect: Warner Group)
(photo: Eric Figge | Architect: Warner Group)