Small Fireplace Ideas: Fireplace Tips and Ideas for Small Spaces
Fireplaces are a great addition to any room, big or small. Since they can be architecturally overwhelming in small rooms, there are ways to incorporate them into a floor plan with minimal square feet. No room should be denied a fireplace and we have tips on how to choose and decorate around fireplaces in small spaces.
1. Consider Ceiling Height and Fireplace Proportions
Even if your room is on the smaller side, incorporating a fireplace based on your ceiling height can help the fireplace look proportionately appropriate. Here are Old World Stoneworks, we advise clients to account for all variables.
Consider the following:
- How much space do you want to leave for foot traffic?
- Will you need room for other movements, like a chair being pulled in or out?
- Will a hearth cause a tripping hazard?
Deciding how much floor space you need will tell you whether you have room for a hearth or if you would be better off using your own material like the Carved Brentwood featured below.
2. Leave Room For Your Fireplace Surround
Regardless of how small you go with your fireplace opening width, don’t forget about the surround. When you envision the design of your fireplace, be sure to add 12 to 24 inches on either side of the fireplace for a surround. This will help enhance the overall look and provide great fireplace surround ideas for your small room.
3. Trick the Eyes with Mirrors
The trick to making your fireplace a seamless addition to your room is by taking advantage of the space around it. Have a lot of room above your fireplace? Add a large mirror just a bit smaller than the width of the fireplace to create the illusion of a bigger room and to complement the fireplace. This is a great small room fireplace idea to make your space feel larger.
4. Think Proportions
Everyone wants to gather around a fireplace so it only makes sense that the layout of the room draws individuals to its warmth. Using proportionate pieces is one way to keep the fireplace in line with the design of the room without having other pieces overshadow it or have the fireplace overwhelm the room. To do this:
- Use a coffee table that is about the same width or slightly smaller than the fireplace like the layout with the Fairmount Mantel featured below.
- Flank the coffee table with seating options that make conversation easy.
- Use smaller accent pieces to balance out large feature items like a mirror or painting.
OWS Amhurst Cast Stone Mantel / Apartment Therapy: How to Furnish a Small Room
5. Utilize Your Fireplace Mantel
Your fireplace mantel is precious real estate for seasonal or permanent décor. The fireplace mantel is a place for you to express your personality and creativity. In Elle Décor, New York designer Celerie Kemble suggests that you, “break the symmetry and create visual interest by selecting a collection from a wardrobe of objects: two pretty planters, a pair of candlesticks, a clock and decorative boxes.”
6. Add Bookshelves for Extra Storage
Another great way to utilize your space in a small room is to use the space around your fireplace. Adding bookshelves is a great way to gain more design and/or storage space. This can also help manage the space on either side of the fireplace efficiently.
Simply Mal
Decorating Small Fireplaces: Final Thoughts
Our easy-to-follow tips on designing a fireplace into a small room can be used just as well for big rooms. The best way for any design to live in harmony is by keeping proportion, space, and layout in mind when considering decorating ideas for your small room.
What are your tips for decorating in small spaces? How do you enjoy your fireplace in a small living room?
Ready to transform your space with a custom fireplace? Contact us today to get started!