Whether you want a ventless fireplace or an old fashion fireplace with a chimney, we can distinguish four styles of fireplaces.
When we talk about style we do not refer to the way a fireplace operates. A vented fireplace is one with an exhaust for smoke or fumes to the outside of the house, usually on the roof, but it can be to the side. A ventless gas fireplace or an ethanol fireplace do not need any form of exhaust system to the outside.
So what are the styles of fireplaces we are talking about?
First there is a rustic style, considered to be an old style. Whether it is an integrated fireplace on a wall with a rustic beam in massive oak, it underlines the effect of the earth and it is usually an integral part of a rustic environment that we find in old houses, sometimes with beams in the ceiling as well. In this rustic style we must also include all the regional variations, like some brick or stone fireplaces often adorned with beautiful wood. This style would include colonial American, French country, old world fireplaces. Once, only available as an open earth proposition, you can today choose a rustic style with all the advantages of a closed earth technology.
The style called classic or sometimes referred to a new classical depending on manufacturers. This the style for a formal fireplace, based on symmetrical and graceful proportions as laid out by the decorators of the 19th century. It is usually a very refined style, with classic accessories and a mantel with scrolling, Roman eagles, or Greek decorations. These fireplaces can also be found with an open or closed hearth.
Modern or Contemporary fireplaces use less traditional materials. They can use forms and colors that can be adapted to modern homes. You can have a three sided fireplace or a fireplace in the shape of a heart. Whether wood, of gas they can be vented or unvented. Some of the vent free gas fireplaces or ethanol fireplaces have shown as many shapes and designs as there designers. This is the style where everything is permissible.
If however you do not find your heart's desire in a contemporary fireplace you can opt for the last option which is a personalized style. This style accounts for about 50% of all fireplaces installed. All it takes is a drawing from an architect, or a photo, and a fireplace manufacturer can created one to fit anything you want, using the materials you select, adding benches, shelves, a bar or a wood box, anyway you want it.
