Why Do People Put Fireplaces In Their Bedrooms?

Having a fireplace in the bedroom has become an increasingly popular design choice over the past few years. Though once seen as unusual, fireplaces are now being incorporated into master bedroom designs more frequently. The crackling ambience and warmth provided by a bedroom fireplace offers a cozy, romantic feel. Still, installing a fireplace in the bedroom requires careful consideration of fire safety, ventilation, and practical factors like mess and noise. This article will explore the history, benefits, types, placement, design, and safety tips for putting a fireplace in the bedroom.

History

The origin of fireplaces being used in bedrooms dates back to medieval times in Europe. In castles, manor houses, and cottages, the fireplace was the center of domestic life and provided heating and a place for cooking. Bedrooms would often be built around a central fireplace or hearth in order to provide warmth at night (The History of the Fireplace).

In the 18th century, bedroom fireplaces became more decorative and ornate, with carved mantels and decorative tiles. Wealthy homeowners wanted to showcase their status with finely crafted fireplaces in the master bedroom (Fireplace History: Stone Age to Today!). The practice of including fireplaces in bedrooms continued into the 19th century and early 20th century, when central heating started to become more common.

Benefits of Having a Fireplace in the Bedroom

One of the main benefits of having a fireplace in the bedroom is the ambiance and charm it adds to the space. The flickering glow and crackling sounds of a fire create a warm, inviting atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation. Many people find gazing into the flames to be a calming, meditative experience before bed.

A fireplace also provides warmth to the bedroom. On chilly nights, having a cozy fire can help raise the temperature of the room to a comfortable level for sleeping. The radiating heat from the fire reaches all corners of the bedroom, allowing you to turn down the thermostat and save on heating costs. You’ll stay perfectly warm and toasty beneath your sheets.

Furthermore, a bedroom fireplace can set the mood for romance and coziness. Curling up by the fire with your significant other is a time-honored romantic tradition. The soft lighting and crackling fire can create intimacy and set the perfect mood. A fireplace adds character and charm to what is often the most personal space in your home.

Sources:
https://dreifussfireplaces.com/8-reasons-to-have-a-fireplace-in-the-bedroom/

Considerations

While a bedroom fireplace can provide warmth and ambiance, there are some important considerations to weigh before installing one.

The cost of installing a fireplace and chimney or venting system can be significant, with estimates ranging from $3,000-$10,000 depending on the type. There are also ongoing maintenance costs for cleaning and inspections.

Most fireplaces require proper venting and chimney systems to safely remove smoke, gases, and embers from the home. This requires constructing a chimney or installing vent pipes following strict building codes.

There are also safety concerns with having an open flame in a bedroom, especially around children and pets. Embers or sparks could escape and ignite bedding. Proper screens and tools are needed to contain the fire.

According to the article on Engel & Völkers, “You’ll need to prepare for two potential risks arising from your new bedroom fireplace: carbon monoxide and escaping embers. The first is solved by a well-installed chimney. For the second risk, install a sturdy fireguard screen.” Proper installation is critical for bedroom fireplaces.

Types of Bedroom Fireplaces

There are several main types of fireplaces that can be installed in bedrooms:

Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Wood-burning fireplaces are traditional fireplaces that burn wood logs as fuel. They provide a nostalgic ambience and crackling fire sound that many enjoy. However, they do require more maintenance like cleaning out ashes and getting wood deliveries (Source).

Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces use natural gas or propane as fuel. They are very convenient since you can control the flames with the flip of a switch. Gas fireplaces are also cleaner than wood-burning ones. However, they don’t provide the same smell and crackling ambience (Source).

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces use electricity to power flames and heating elements. They are the easiest to use and install, and don’t require venting. However, the flames are simulated and don’t provide the same realism. Operating costs can also be higher compared to gas (Source).

Bioethanol Fireplaces

Bioethanol fireplaces use liquid bioethanol fuel. They provide realistic flickering flames and heat without any smoke. However, refueling is required frequently and they can be more expensive (Source).

Design

When incorporating a fireplace into a bedroom, there are several design factors to consider. The most fundamental is deciding between a built-in or freestanding fireplace (The Spruce). Built-in fireplaces are constructed into the home’s architecture, making them a permanent fixture. Freestanding fireplaces are movable units that can be installed without remodeling. Built-ins offer a more seamless, integrated look but require more initial investment. Freestanding units are often more budget-friendly and offer flexibility if you move.

The mantel and surround are also key design elements. Mantels provide an anchoring focal point and display space above the fireplace. Common materials for mantels include wood, stone, and marble. The surround frames in the firebox itself. Options range from basic painted drywall to elaborate tile or stacked stone. More ornate surrounds and mantels create a bolder visual statement.

For the fireplace materials, masonry fireplaces with stone or brick facades are attractive but costly. Prefabricated metal fireplaces offer a streamlined, contemporary look for less. Some even allow custom surrounds to be added. Outdoor-rated electric fireplaces can also be safely installed indoors in bedrooms. Their flame effects provide ambiance without ventilation needs (Pinterest).

Placement

When deciding where to place a bedroom fireplace, there are a few key factors to consider.

First, most experts recommend installing a bedroom fireplace on an interior wall rather than an exterior wall (The Best Place In Your Home To Install A Fireplace). This helps retain heat within the bedroom. Placement near seating areas or the bed is ideal so you can enjoy the ambiance and warmth. Make sure there is sufficient clearance from curtains, bedding or furniture.

Proper ventilation is critical for fireplaces. There must be enough oxygen supply for the fire and proper exhaust of smoke and gases. Building codes generally require fresh air supply directly to the firebox. An exhaust flue that extends outside is also necessary. This is easier to accommodate on interior walls.

Consider placing the fireplace on a wall opposite windows. The fireplace can balance out cold drafts from the windows in winter. Installation on the wall behind the bed creates a pleasant focal point. Just be sure to allow clearance above the mantel for proper viewing.

Alternatives

While traditional wood-burning fireplaces can provide a cozy ambiance and warmth, they also come with some drawbacks like the need for ventilation and chimney maintenance. For bedrooms and smaller spaces, there are some great alternatives to consider:

Electric Fireplace Inserts: An electric fireplace insert can be installed into an existing fireplace opening or wall space. These provide the flickering flame visuals and heat of a fireplace, powered by electricity instead of wood or gas. They are energy-efficient, clean, and safe to operate (source).

Wall-Mounted Fireplaces: Wall-mounted electric or gas fireplaces are another space-saving option, with models that hang directly on the wall without requiring any hearth space. These modern, minimalist options deliver fireplace ambiance without taking up floor space (source).

Fireplace Heaters: Instead of an open fireplace, installing an electric or gas fireplace heater is a safe and efficient way to provide zone heating just where you need it. Compact wall-mounted units circulate heated air into the bedroom without taking up hearth space.

Safety Tips

Having a fireplace in the bedroom can be cozy, but you need to take precautions for your safety. Here are some tips:

• Use a screen or glass doors on the fireplace. This helps prevent sparks from escaping and causing fires. Make sure the screen completely covers the fireplace opening.
• Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your bedroom. These will alert you if smoke or dangerous gases are present from a malfunctioning fireplace.
• Have your fireplace professionally installed and inspected annually. Improper installation or buildup in the flue can cause fires. An expert can spot potential issues.
• Keep anything flammable at least 3 feet away from the fireplace.
• Never leave a fire unattended. Always make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the room.

Taking proper precautions allows you to enjoy the ambiance of a bedroom fireplace safely. Protect yourself and your family by following these fireplace safety tips.

Conclusion

In summary, there are several appealing benefits to having a fireplace in the bedroom. The ambience and warmth can make the room feel cozy and romantic. The flickering flames provide a calming focal point that can help people relax before bedtime. For many, having a fireplace in the master bedroom feels indulgent and creates an oasis-like retreat. With proper precautions and maintenance, bedroom fireplaces can be enjoyed safely if designed correctly. While not for everyone, for fireplace aficionados there are few better treats than drifting off to sleep by the glow and crackle of a bedroom fire.