When the weather outside is frightful, a fire can be so delightful. There's just one problem: you don't have a fireplace. If you long for this homey touch, you have options — some create the feel of a real fireplace, while others require a bit more imagination. One thing's for sure — fake fireplace mania has hit.
Ventless Fireplaces
If you want real fire and heat, a ventless unit is a great option. For an investment of around $200 for a simple unit to $3200 for a deluxe one, you can have a functional freestanding or wall-mounted fireplace. These units don't need a flue, chimney or external venting, and can be safely placed in any room of your home.
Here are the fuel options for ventless units:
Gel. These units burn canned gel fuel and produce real flame and heat. They're sometimes sold in combination with wood and can even produce the fire's crackle sound. The flames actually consume the gel fuel, so you do need to replace it.
Electric. Electric fireplaces have a heat and glow option, rather than an actual flame. They're portable and use any standard 3-prong outlet. You can use them with or without heat, so you can enjoy your fireplace even in summer.
Gas. If your home has a natural gas or propane line, you can fuel a gas fireplace. These units are less portable than gel or electric ones, but they can be very efficient and cost effective to operate. An added perk — if your power goes off, you'll still have heat.
All three types come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors and finishes — even corner and wall-mountable units. Many fake fireplaces look like built-in fireplaces or wood burning stoves, without the vertical chimney. The heat they produce varies, so choose a unit suited to the size of your space.
Mantle and Surround
If you like the look of a fireplace but function isn't a priority (other than providing a place to hang stockings and display photos), try a mantle and surround. You can buy a new one or find an old one with character at an architectural salvage shop. If you're handy, you can even build your own. Make sure to attach it securely to the wall so it doesn't topple. To make it look more like the real thing, set a fire screen in front of it.
Wall Mural
A good trompe de l'oeil (that's French for "fool the eye") wall mural of a fireplace looks almost like the real thing, flames and all. A mural can be painted — hire a professional trompe de l'oeil artist unless you're really good — or you can buy wallpaper murals that look real, with or without flames. Because a fireplace mural is flat on the wall, to create depth you can add a rug hearth and fireplace accessories such as a log rack, tool set or freestanding screen.
Cardboard Fireplace
Somewhere in the era between fireplace-heated homes and ventless fireplaces, cardboard fireplaces came into being. And, like the venerable pink flamingo, they've become treasured for their retro kitschiness, so you can still find them in catalogs and craft stores. Just don't use candles around them.
Candles, Candles, Candles
If you simply don't have a good spot for a fake fireplace, you can still create a warm environment with candles. Arranged correctly, a collection of candles can add interest, depth and warmth to your space. You can place them in front of or on a reflective surface such as a mirror or silver tray to increase their luminescence. If a wax or oil flame is a safety concern, instead opt for LED, battery or electric candles. For the most pleasing visual effect, place the tallest candles in the center, with the remaining candles getting progressively shorter on the sides and in front. Or use a candelabra.
If All Else Fails
You can always play a fireplace DVD on your TV or computer screen, complete with the cracking sound.
Whichever option you choose, you, your family and your guests will benefit from your efforts during cold winter days. Even if the effect is purely psychological, a room just feels warmer with a fireplace.
Copyright Sears Brands, LLC 2007. All rights reserved.
