Fire surrounds are a great way to add extra character and definition to your fireplace. Choosing the right fire surrounds can make a huge difference to the overall look and feel of a room and can help to continue a colour scheme or interior design scheme.
Unlike accessories and furnishings a lot of thought should go into choosing fire surrounds as it will remain a permanent fixture around your fireplace.
The following is a brief guide to some popular styles of fire surrounds.
Victorian Fireplace Surrounds
Traditional Victorian fireplace surrounds are instantly recognisable by their classical styling. The simplicity of Victorian fireplace surrounds designs also allow them to be adapted to integrate different kinds of fireplaces.
Victorian fireplace surrounds are instantly recognisable by their design features. The fire surrounds comprise of a main opening which leads directly to the chimney allowing for effective extraction of fumes. The opening is framed by a fireplace fascia which is usually decorated in an ornate style. The fireplace fascia itself is made from a single piece of cast iron which is extremely hard wearing.
Variations of the fireplace fascia may include an internal trim with a matching hood which frames the opening. An outer border may also be included to reinforce the design and add depth. The fireplace fascia is also often decorated with coloured or patterned tiles arranged around the border and the trim.
Victorian fireplace surrounds can readily be adapted to accommodate gas fires. By removing the grate a space can be provided to place a gas insert tray. The gas fire is then placed in the opening where the original open fire originally sits. The traditional Victorian fireplace surrounds look can be retained by using a gas fire with decorative logs or flame effects.
Wooden Fire Surrounds
Wooden fire surrounds are another popular choice for decorating fireplaces. Using wooden fire surrounds a classical look can be achieved to fit the décor of most rooms.
Different materials can be used to create different Wooden Fire Surrounds effects with varying qualities. Oak and Pine are firm favourites although cheaper materials can be used and treated with veneers. Different companies may offer different ranges and styles of wooden fire surrounds including bespoke designs and replication services.
A selection of different motifs can also be etched into wooden fire surrounds. Some companies may have a set range of designs for customers to choose from whereas others may offer bespoke designs or the choice to copy a design from a sketch. If you are going to have a custom design etched it is recommended that you choose a bold design that can be viewed clearly from all angles.
To find out more about Wooden Fire Surrounds visit the Timber Fireplaces page.