Fireplace Suites - The Complete Package
A fireplace suite is the complete package; it includes a surround/mantelpiece, hearth and fire all working together to create the centrepiece of your home. Evolution Fires' suites are ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, extensions and bathrooms.
Hotels with fireplaces have an inherent feeling of luxury that creates warm memories and influences customer return. Find out how to bring this experience to your hotel.
The hearth
The hearth is the flat piece of furniture that sits at the base of a fireplace, designed to shield the wall and floor from heat damage or embers. It is typically made of non-combustible materials such as stone or brick, and it extends between 16 and 18 inches in front of the fireplace. Electric fireplaces are typically without a hearth.
As a general rule, fireplace suites consist of four main components; an inset fire (either gas or electric), a surround/mantelpiece, a back panel and the hearth. The four components work together to create a centrepiece that enhances the appearance of any space and make your home appear more inviting. Suites are great for those who want to give their home an updated look and restyle it.
Suites are available in a broad variety of styles, finishes and colors to match any style. There are also a wide range of choices for the type of flame effect, fire and heating output. Conventional gas-fuelled fires are the best choice for homes with chimneys, and balanced flue fires are a viable alternative that can be used in properties without a chimney.
Electric fireplace suites are a great choice for those looking to add a focal piece to their living space without having to install an actual wood or gas fire. These suites produce their own heat through a process called convection which draws in cool air and warms it up before venting it out into the room. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, these suites do not release carbon monoxide, which could be dangerous if breathed in.
The back panel
A back panel for the fireplace is situated at the back of the fireplace opening. It assists in creating an 'n-shaped' design with the mantelpiece, surround, and inset fire. It is made of a number of heat-resistant materials including slate, granite, and stone.
The back panel is usually included in a fireplace set that includes a surround the mantelpiece, and an inset fire appliance. This will save you time and effort during installation since the components are designed to be able to fit seamlessly.
There are also standalone back panels available that are perfect for situations when you are replacing an electric or gas fireplace and wish to improve the appearance of your existing chimney breast without having to remove it. Back panels are available in a variety of styles and materials, so you can find the ideal one for your home.
Back panels aren't just attractive, but they are made of materials that are resistant to heat. This is crucial because it protects your walls and floors from the effects of a fireplace suite. This is particularly true when you select gas or a solid fuel fireplace suite, since they produce an immense amount of heat that could be transferred to the surrounding areas via the wall or ceiling.
A back panel can really aid in tying up your entire fireplace suite, especially if you're going for a modern look. This stunning flamerite Ador electric fireplace, for example, comes with a curved fire image that enhances the effect of the fire. This suite, when combined with an open-fronted modern electric fire, can create an impressive focal point in any living room, or extension.
This Elgin and Hall Farnham Deluxe Suite features the popular Chollerton gas fire inset. This fire with a glass front is a real show-stopper. It will completely transform any space when paired with the limestone surround and back panels.
For a more minimalist look this stunning wall mounted flamerite Edwin LED electric suite is a great option. The suite can be hung on any flat wall, and controlled with the remote control that comes with. It's simple to use and does not require chimneys or flue.
The surround/mantelpiece
In contrast to traditional fireplaces, which require a back panel and a fire surround, modern electric fireplaces can simply be fixed flush against the wall and provide an amazing focal point. They are great for homes where space is limited or where a chimney and flue are not available.
The electric fireplace range from Fires2U has a range of styles and sizes so you can find the ideal one for your home. Choose from stunning stone designs like the Carron Corbel for the classic Georgian style, or opt for a minimalist style with the Gallery Lincoln which boasts clean lines and simple elegance. Pine surrounds are popular too, and the Gallery Corbel from Carron is no exception. The piece can be finished with wax or left unfinished to show the texture and color of the wood.
For a more sophisticated look you could choose a marble surround. Elgin & Hall Vitalia Marble Electric Fire Suite is an amazing option, with its beautiful detailing. If you're looking for something a bit more elegant then the Pureglow Hanley is a great choice. This surround comes in gray and is compatible with gas or electric fires.
Alongside electric fire place suite can also opt for modern style using the sleek look of an all-white model. The Carron Ashleigh surround is a popular option that works with gas and electric fires.
A traditional cast iron fireplace is a fantastic option for those who enjoy the ambiance of real flames burning within their living space. The Flamerite Aubade and Tennyson LED cast iron fireplace suites have a stylish curved mantelpiece and are designed to work with wood-burning, electric or gas fireplaces. They also come with an automatic remote control to allow you to adjust the settings of your fire and lighting effortlessly.
If you're looking to add a touch of luxury, why not choose a deluxe fireplace suite? They're usually bigger than traditional suites and are great to add a touch of elegance to living spaces. These are often available in a variety of different styles and colors and finishes, so you're bound to find one that is a perfect match for the style of your home. You can also opt for mirror-like surrounds to create a dramatic impact and increase the amount of light entering your living space.
The fire
The fire is the heart of any fireplace set, but it doesn't have to be a wood-burning one. Gas and electric are also options. The trick is to choose the design that is appropriate for the space and will meet your requirements. You can also opt for a larger fireplace or one with a larger panel that frames the fire to create a stunning focal in your room.
Consider the amount of heat your home will need when you select the right fireplace set. This will depend on some factors, such as the power of the fireplace, your current electricity rates and the length of time you plan to use it daily. Divide the wattage of the fireplace by the energy cost per kilowatt-hour charged by your electricity provider.
The surround and mantelpiece of your fireplace can also have a major impact on how it looks. Some are intricate designs that add visual interest, while others have a more subtle design that blends into any interior style. You can find a set that has an LED inside glow log that gives the illusion of a real fireplace without using any fuel.
There are four types of fire places including wood (nice for viewing and smelling but less efficient, it releases air pollutants like particulate matter and carbon monoxide), gas (more energy efficient but still produces carbon monoxide, and burns natural or synthesized logs) and electric (uses the technology of fan and coil, doesn't emit any dangerous gasses, is very cost-effective and cozy). If you're looking to make the most of your fireplace set-up, choose one that has high BTUs. This will warm the room more quickly and will also create a more authentic fire effect.