Stunning Fireplaces: The sparkling focal points of historic homes

Fireplaces were a necessity in western countries because of the chilly weather. Not just because of the festivities, fireplaces also served as the hub of the house by providing heat for resting or gatherings. In the early 1600s and 1700s, fireplaces acted as the nucleus of the family. Back then fireplaces were just about utility with the briefest semblance of a mantel or no mantel at all. Before the inception of the elegant marble mantels or the Bolection Fireplace surrounds, these fireplaces were popular in the homes of Dutch settlers.

The British Fireplaces

The fireplaces with no mantels were for the general public while for the aristocrats in the British society or in the colonial homes in New England, the fireplaces had mantels for decorative purposes. These sorts of fireplaces had central chimneys with multiple flues to retain heat and keep the house warm. The mantels still hadn’t much of an image then, but they were beautiful and ornately carved featuring inset panels, pilasters, and dentils. 

The inception of true mantels

The cast stone fireplace and marble fireplaces that we see today have quite a long-lost history. The true mantels were rare before the 1800s. However, by the second quarter of the 18th century, fireplaces had become the centerpiece of the main gathering rooms. Georgian styles were book-matched on the either-side of the openings and decorative paneling along with other accents were included to bring that dramatic touch in the ambiance. 

The emergence of marble fireplaces

Then came the large marble fireplaces that become the showstopper of the 19th century. It might seem absurd, but these fireplaces were large enough to stable a cow. The pioneer was Benjamin Thompson who kept fiddling with the design of the firebox. His innovations led to the development of open fireplaces as we see them today. The ingenious designs developed by him are used till date to throw more radiant heat into the room. 

This was the eon where marble fireplaces became widely popular. The Victorian and French architecture gained pace and polished fireplaces became the talk of the town. People became using fireplaces in all their grandeur unless one day people started perceiving fireplaces to be old-fashioned. 

The huge comeback

Fortunately, in the 21st century, fireplaces have made a massive comeback. The limestone fireplace and opulent marble mantel ideas have become the eye candy of interior designers because of their classy and timeless appeal. Fireless is no longer just a place to get warmth during the winters. Now, they have again morphed into a visual attraction where conversations linger and gatherings happen.

Conclusion

Whether simple-rustic or highly ornate, a fireplace continues to be a source of comfort and warmth in the home. Even today, it is still one of the most desired elements. Starting from the Carrara marble fireplace surrounds to the limestone mantels, fireplaces can evoke awe and create a spectacular sight in your homes. So, honor the history of fireplaces and create history in your décor with beautiful marble fireplace ideas.