Hearth and home have paired in the human mind for thousands of years. Fireplaces unite family and friends, link the indoors to nature, and provide a measure of energy independence.
Each fall, many a homeowner’s fancy turns to winter warmth. Perhaps because of rising fuel prices and the need to become more energy efficient – no one knows for certain – the desire for fire in Chattanooga begins to peak in late September and October. “We’re going gangbusters,” says Kathy Walters, office manager for Therm-Con, LLC in Brainerd.
If your home doesn’t have a fireplace, you may not know what you’re missing. Here are five aesthetic reasons to get you fired up this autumn:
1 Experience Tranquility
Flickering amber flames comfort and soothe, adding a magical touch to your special moments. A warm glow can create the perfect mood for romantic evenings, reminding couples of their love, memories and future together.
2 Expand Your Color Palette
Glowing in vivid red, orange, yellow and blistering blue, a fire – like a miniature sunset-will splash rich, warm tones around a room.
3 Pull the Room Together
Fire exerts an ancient, primitive pull. A fireplace -from mantel to hearth-will draw attention as well as the approval of your guests. The inevitable aesthetic conflict between television and fireplace can be easily resolved by stacking a flat screen on the mantel. “You don’t want to have two competing centerpieces,” notes Walker. “One wall should be the focal point for the whole room.”
4 Create a work of art
Even when not in use, a fireplace can be a masterpiece when designed by talented artists or sculptors. A variety of materials and a stunning array of design choices exist in today’s fireplace market – ranging from oak panels of Colonial Williamsburg to country brick and rustic flagstone. They include upside-down lollipop shapes suggestive of a late-60s Scandinavian ski lodge.
5 Spice up your living space
Dancing, shimmering flames create an organic, flowing feel in a room. A fire’s primeval motion casts out light in all directions to add a pleasing, subtle energy to your decor.