Home is Where the Hearth Is

With the bitter cold moving in from Oregon to Florida this post-holiday season, it is no wonder our minds are on fireplaces.  Once part of a space for heat, these mantled beauties are now designer focal points and still impart the desire to gather around them.  Whether the hearth is part of a clubhouse, lounge or private home, you can see, their designs are vastly unique but they all warm us heart and soul.

This century old clubhouse didn't actually have a fireplace originally.  This stone centerpiece to the space fits perfectly with the welcoming atmosphere at Van Cortlandt. 

This fireplace centers the space and provides an intimate atmosphere in a large banquet room.

Making a bold statement with a deep green marble, this fireplace is a crowd pleaser.

Blending quietly helps to showcase amazing art.  A fireplace is a great canvas for featuring treasures.

 A fireplace can be small and still impact the room.  This hearth helps to define dining and living spaces within an open floor plan.

  

Conversely, a large brick surround is always beautiful to work with.  A bright mantle and arched built ins help to break up the stone and create a warm, inviting retreat.

A gas fireplace inset into the wall is a fabulous way to add warmth and ambiance to a small space.  It also gives a modern flair to a more traditional spacial element.

Gas fireplaces, when surrounded ornately can add a traditional beauty to the space as well.  This mantle and surround are both intricate and simple which just add to the beauty of the piece. 

 This massive, view through fireplace is one of our favorite additions to this master suite.  It is difficult not to stare . . . go ahead, we won't tell!  

 If you have a fireplace, we hope that these photos offer you some inspiration for new ways to design your mantle or a complete change to something bright and bold for the new year.  As you can see there is no wrong way to showcase your hearth.  Share your fireplace design with us by tagging us on Facebook.