The new design for the fireplace surround incorporates new lighting, clean lines with white painted trim and millwork, a granite firebox and a hearthstone floor. She designed a tall fireplace backdrop in charcoal gray by re-cladding the existing brick surround with wood and granite. Naperville interior designer Joan Kaufman transformed an existing fireplace in the living room of a Glen Ellyn home. This helps to minimize heat and keep the home cooler in warmer months when the fireplace is being used.īasic fireplace design has not changed too much, but the function, safety features, products and materials used in fireplace construction certainly has. In the warmer South and West, the fireplace is usually located at either end of the home. Homes in the North, East and Midwest typically have fireplaces located in the center of the house to distribute heat in a 360-degree direction. Around the 1850s, the fireplace evolved from its original purpose into a design highlight of a room, featuring elaborate tile work, natural stone and intricately detailed mantels made from a variety of natural materials.

The fireplace provided warmth and a reliable method to heat water, cook food and bake bread. Centuries ago, fireplaces were essential to the house.

Focalpoint fireplace