The article is intended to help the reader understand how to make a decorative fireplace. Below are different types of materials, and two step-by-step master classes are offered.
For ease of reading, the article is divided into several chapters:
- review of materials;
- finishing tips;
- two master classes on creating a decorative false fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard and plywood;
In conclusion, a short overview of the most popular models of ready-made fireplaces is provided.
In a classic interior
The purpose of decorative fireplaces
Several decades ago, the fireplace served as a source of heating in the house; for a long time, wood and coal were burned in it to heat the room. Now there is no need for it - more modern and ergonomic heating systems they left him no chance to compete, making him a relic of the past.
Decorative fireplace in the living room interior The need for such visualization of heat still exists in humans. Not every house and apartment allows the installation of a fireplace, so we came to the rescue decorative false fireplaces. It will not give a completely natural smell and fire, but it can create a pleasant atmosphere of comfort in the room.
Important: False fireplaces have no restrictions on their use - they can be installed in absolutely any room. Store the lineup has a huge number of proposals that are used indoors and on verandas or gazebos.
In a big house What to make a decorative portal for a fireplace with your own hands - advantages and disadvantages of materials
A decorative portal for a fireplace is made from a wide range of materials:
- drywall;
- brick;
- Styrofoam;
- laminated chipboard;
- polyurethane.
In black Drywall
Drywall consists of pressed sheets of gypsum, fastened with strong cardboard on the sides. The material is used in construction, it is perfect for making a decorative fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands (false fireplace). It is used in the construction of partitions in apartments and private houses, and in the installation of ceilings.
In a painted room The main advantages of a decorative portal for a fireplace made of plasterboard include:
- ease of work;
- light weight;
- low price.
Drywall is cut with an ordinary stationery knife and secured with screws. The surface can be puttied and painted with any paint, and if handled correctly, structures made from it are almost eternal.
In the bedroom Important: Light weight will allow you to make a fireplace without weight restrictions. The plasterboard frame is lightweight and will not create any pressure on the supporting elements of the floor and walls. Low cost is obtained from the low cost of the sheet - 1 square meter costs 300-400 rubles, and Consumables cheap to build.
The disadvantages include:
- fragility;
- low resistance to moisture;
- “disposability” of the material.
If the surface protective layer is damaged, drywall quickly crumbles. Easily penetrated by hand or foot. You can get rid of this by tightly fastening the sheets and placing profiles more frequently, but this greatly damages the fireplace. Moisture quickly destroys plaster. Protect the sheets from any damp places.
Fireplace made of plaster Important: If the cut is incorrect or broken, the drywall will have to be completely replaced. It cannot be glued or twisted, because errors in calculations are costly.
Brick
The brick represents classic material for ordinary fireplaces - it is temperature resistant, durable and has a very noble appearance. For false fireplaces, such properties do not matter, but decorative element it allows you to decorate the room. Brick:
- durable;
- resistant to moisture, temperature and mechanical damage;
- relatively easy to work with.
With decorative trim Indoors, brick is almost eternal. In rare cases, when the chosen brick was of extremely poor quality, it begins to crumble, but, in Lately This doesn't happen often. High-quality masonry does not allow water to pass through and will not fall apart even from the strongest blows.
Brick is quite convenient to lay - all you need is a little experience and fairly cheap tools. An ordinary decorative portal rarely requires any major design changes and is made in one day. Difficulties arise when working with used bricks, but for decorative elements we recommend using new ones.
The disadvantages include:
- high weight;
- demands for support;
- high cost.
Decorative firewood for the fireplace High weight is the main negative property - the finished structure has a large mass, which puts pressure on the surrounding supports. This same quality also has a second disadvantage - you need a durable floor that can withstand future decoration.
Important: The cost is comparatively higher than other materials, taking into account that the walls of the structure are entirely made of brick.
Styrofoam
Foam plastic is foamed plastic, which is an excellent material for making a decorative fireplace with your own hands. Foam has a large number of applications - from insulating houses due to its low thermal conductivity to packaging equipment due to its softness. It is used as decoration in any area - it is flexible and easy to use.
The advantages include:
- easy processing;
- very light weight;
- moisture resistance.
From foam plastic The foam sheet can be given any shape. It is processed with a knife and a hacksaw. Using grained sheets they create similar imitations of stucco or other decorative effects. The low weight is due to the peculiarity of the material - more than half of the volume is pores, due to which low weight is achieved with a large size.
Important: Polystyrene foam does not get wet - it repels water perfectly. In rare cases, grained foam breaks down when exposed to water - this happens due to the use of weak glue to hold the individual grains together.
In the red room Main disadvantages:
- is destroyed under the influence of various chemicals;
- brittle;
- ignites easily.
Most adhesives and paints melt it - the foam structure rapidly collapses under the influence of aerosols, nitrates and solvents. Paint polystyrene foam with water or acrylic paints, fasten – special glue.
The fragility is due to the structure. A small impact is enough to break it. A decorative fireplace made from it will be quite brittle, which requires special care in handling. Light weight finished product will lead to the need for additional strengthening.
Decorative portal Important: We must remember - polystyrene foam, like other flammable plastic materials, ignites quite easily. Its combustion temperature is much lower than that of wood, which can lead to a fire if the temperature of the candle or heating elements is low.
laminated chipboard
Laminated wood particle board is a pressed mass of wood with additional protective coating. It is processed wood chips that are pressed and glued together high pressure. Lamination gives any appearance.
The main advantages of fireplace portals made of laminated chipboard include:
- high strength;
- durability;
- ease of use.
False fireplace in an interior made of chipboard Chipboard is similar to wood, therefore all the main advantages come from it. It is quite difficult to break, and it is quite convenient to place the slabs - you just need to cut them into required sizes and twist them together. The weight depends on the specific slab and its thickness, but to make a decorative fireplace with your own hands, use slabs of small thickness.
The main disadvantages are:
- low resistance of cuts to water;
- complex surface treatment with various paints.
The adhesive used in the process of gluing boards is quite easily destroyed when exposed to water. Moisture extremely quickly destroys the connections between the chips, which becomes big problem for the finished design. Water enters through cut or chipped areas, which forces them to be additionally protected from environmental conditions.
In the interior of the room Laminate flooring is difficult to paint. It represents a polymer layer that is difficult to paint with alkyd, acrylic and water-based paints– they do not attach to it, peeling off like a film. Laminated chipboard requires additional coating for decoration.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane contains a large number of materials - from liquid and viscous mixtures to completely solid plastics. The material is used in any construction process - a huge number of shapes and textures contribute to this. To make a false fireplace with your own hands, polyurethane is perfect.
Made from polyurethane The advantages of decorative portals for false fireplaces made of polyurethane include:
- moisture resistance;
- low maintenance requirements;
- unlike polystyrene foam, it is more resistant to various solvents.
Polyurethane is not afraid of water - it does not get wet and does not lose its properties. It is used as waterproofing for various pipes that constantly emit condensation. It does not require maintenance - in extremely rare cases the surface becomes dirty.
A different structure allows you to paint it with absolutely any paint and not be limited in use various adhesives and aerosols. Polyurethane is resistant and can be used outdoors.
In a private house The main negative aspects are:
- easy flammability;
- light weight of the material.
Polyurethane only needs the fire of a match or a cigarette to melt - it is not much different from polyethylene in this regard. There are special reinforced sheets on sale, but their use is comparable in cost to more natural materials. For some types of false fireplaces this is important - an accidental spark from the wiring can burn half of the property.
Polyurethane fireplace option Light weight requires additional fastening of the structure, which is not always convenient, especially when the room already has a ready-made renovation. This is compensated for by the heavier filling.
Do-it-yourself imitation of a fireplace in an apartment - portal finishing options
Finishing is an individual decision. The fireplace is covered with decorative brick tiles or painted to resemble lime or marble - the absence of a real fire leaves a lot of room for imagination.
Idea: For brick fireplaces, it is permissible not to use finishing - the brick itself has a natural look, but it is not difficult to complement it with painting or decorative elements.
White brick Most materials require additional processing before decoration - chipboard or polystyrene foam. Otherwise, extremely noticeable various defects surfaces that will spoil the appearance of the product.
Do-it-yourself decorative fireplace made of plasterboard - photo, step-by-step instructions
The master class explains how to properly create a false fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard. Step-by-step instructions and photos are presented later in the article.
The main idea of a decorative fireplace is to create a kind of shelf for equipment and camouflage various wires. Since there are no special requirements for it, ordinary drywall is used, which will be attached to the frame.
For work you will need materials:
- plasterboard for sheathing;
- metal profiles – wide and narrow;
- drywall screws;
- decorative brick;
- tabletop - for the top of the fireplace.
| Designation | View | Har-ka | Application | Cardboard color | Marking color | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| on the back side | on the front side | |||||
| GKL | Regular | – | Used in buildings and rooms with dry and normal conditions | grey | grey | blue |
| GKLO | With increased resistance to open flames | They differ from conventional ones by special reinforcing additives in the core material | grey | pink | red | |
| GKLV | Moisture resistant | Differs from conventional ones by using hydrophobic additives | It is used like conventional gypsum plasterboards, in rooms with high humidity with security exhaust ventilation and subject to protection of the front surface, for example: waterproofing, waterproof primers, paints, ceramic tiles | green | green | blue |
| GKLVO | Moisture-resistant with increased resistance to open flames | They differ from conventional ones in the combination of properties of GKLO and GKLV | green | green | red | |
Advice: The brick is selected to taste. Almost all of them have the same thickness and are distinguished by color and texture. The best option buy individual bricks - the plates may be large for a false fireplace, and they will have to be cut.
A fireplace countertop is optional. Instead, use any other material - the fireplace portal will not suffer from this. You will need wood for the back wall - it will be removable to provide convenient access to the sockets hidden behind it.
Tools you will find useful:
- screwdriver;
- level;
- square;
- spatula for attaching decorative bricks;
- metal scissors.
You can’t leave out absolutely anything from the list of tools - they all represent the basic minimum, without which it will be impossible to do the job. A square and level are required in order to create smooth walls and surface - a crooked fireplace will look extremely unsightly.
Frame installation
The process of installing a portal for a decorative fireplace is divided into several steps, see step-by-step photo instructions:
 | 1. Work begins with the installation of the frame for the fireplace portal. To do this, assemble a base of four profiles. At this stage, narrow profiles are fixed as the bottom, into which transverse ones will subsequently be inserted. |
 | 2. The next step is to strengthen the vertical profiles. Cut their sides into desired length, and screw the screws into a wide plane. |
|
3. Attach the profiles for the main skin. They are fixed by analogy with the previous ones. |
 |
4. The floor is additionally reinforced with several horizontal profiles, which allow you to create a flat area for future decorative firewood for the fireplace. |
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5. The last step is to cover the horizontal elements and simulate a pipe that will hide the wires from the TV. |
Facing
The cladding will be made of plasterboard. Cut it exactly to size with a construction knife. Start doing this from any side, sequentially go through 3 layers - 2 layers of cardboard and plaster. For convenience, make a margin of 3-4mm, which will then be cut off with a knife.
The work starts from the ground up:
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6. After the horizontal part is attached, additionally add one vertical strip on each side - they will provide a stronger base. |
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7. Next, we begin to sheathe the sides. All sheets are screwed on with screws. The length of the screws should not be too long (3 mm) - it is enough to simply secure the sheet in the profile. |
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8. The next step is to secure the front sheets. Make a curved sheet - it will serve as a ceiling for the “firebox” of the false fireplace. To do this, make shallow cuts on one side of the sheet - it will be screwed to the ceiling. |
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9. After that, screw the last sheets and proceed to the next step. |
Finishing an imitation fireplace in an apartment
TO finishing Do-it-yourself decorative fireplace made of plasterboard includes facing it with brick and securing the countertop. The tabletop is attached like a regular kitchen one - with latches. Decorating with bricks is done with special glue and a spatula. Start from the bottom level.
  | 10. We finish the transitions on the false fireplace with foam stucco molding, which is selected according to size. It is an ordinary plinth that is attached with glue. Finishing is done from the bottom up, which allows the bricks to be placed more densely. |
 | 11. Create a backsplash for the fireplace. Any sheet of not too thick plywood on which the brick will be placed is suitable for it. |
 | 12. The end of the finishing will be a narrow baseboard, which will create a narrow transition between the finishing and the countertop. |
As a final step, decorate the structure with logs, placing them in an imitation firebox. The upper shelf is used to install various equipment.
How to make a false fireplace with your own hands - step-by-step photo instructions from plywood with a mirror
As part of the master class, we will tell you how to make a false fireplace with your own hands ( step-by-step instruction with photo attached) made of plywood, wooden blocks and mirrors. The dimensions of the finished structure are 1100 mm in height, 220 mm in depth and 900 mm in width.
The structure is made entirely of wood, with a mirror inserted on the back wall. The wall behind the fireplace will serve as it.
Materials you will need:
- plywood 2mm thick;
- bars, 20x40mm;
- board, 40x220mm;
- wooden corners;
- metal corners;
- mirror;
- dye.
Plywood and bars are made from any wood - it is advisable that they be sanded in advance. There are no special requirements for the board, the main thing is that its surface is smooth. The dimensions of the mirror depend on the desired characteristics; 600x400 mm will be more than enough.
Tools you will need:
- wood hacksaw;
- screwdriver;
- drill or drill bit for a screwdriver;
- brushes for painting.
Frame installation
Assembling the frame is not very labor-intensive - all the main guides should be on the edges of the proposed sheets. It is advisable, before you start making a false fireplace with your own hands according to our step-by-step instructions with photos, to develop a rough drawing that will allow you to navigate the dimensions of the structure.
 | 1. The beams are fastened together with metal squares and wood screws - their strength is enough for the frame of a false fireplace. |
 | 2. Prepare horizontal guides for the shelves. They are attached as follows. |
 | 3. The shape of the squares does not matter - any that were on hand are used. The most important thing is leveling - use a level at all stages of frame assembly. After assembling the proposed frame, place the mirror. This is done with siding screws. |
On last stage It is not superfluous to cut plywood. Accuracy is not so important - deviations of up to 2-4mm are permissible, since all joints will be covered with corners.
Coloring
This stage of installation of a false fireplace can be carried out by any suitable paint. It is worth painting in a thin layer, after first removing the sheets of plywood from the frame - this will make it extremely difficult to stain the surrounding walls.
Advice: We recommend showing the texture of the wood after a thick coat in the following way: take any rag and rub it over the still wet paint. Part of the surface layer will transfer to the rag and expose the texture. Do not use felt or cotton fabric - it will leave a lot of lint on the surface.
After drying, attach all the sheets to the frame of the false fireplace portal.
4. Glue the sheets to the frame Decoration
The decor for a false fireplace is considered to be corners that will hide cosmetic defects of plywood, different strips and construction materials. decorative panels. We recommend starting work from the corners.
 | 5. thin tree it splits when twisted with a screw, therefore, before screwing the corner, drill a hole in it with a drill slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw. |
 | 6. After this, the screw is tightened, attaching the corner. |
 | 7. A strip is attached to the top of the fireplace, to which the corners are screwed in advance. It allows you to hide the joint of plywood sheets. |
 | 8. For additional decor, a construction panel was purchased from the store. It has the appearance of stucco and is pre-painted. It is attached by screwing in inside leaf. |
 | 9. After this, arrange the remaining decorative elements: candles, garlands or paintings. Place logs under the bottom shelf. |
Options for purchased decorative fireplaces
Decorative fireplaces are taking over the market extensively home decor. Ready solutions have the ability to be carried, and the main principle of operation is a system of mirrors with lamps and sound effects.
All offered fireplaces are divided into two functional groups:
- with heating;
- without him.
Cozy atmosphere The first option plays the role of not only a decorative element, but also a heater - heating elements or other heaters are installed in them, which, with the help of a fan system, allow heating the room. Do not purchase cheap Chinese solutions - they are dangerous for the apartment in terms of fire safety and place a large load on the power grid. Take this into account, because often the heat from it becomes unnoticeable against the background of the electricity consumed.
The second option is completely decorative and has no benefit other than decorative effect for the premises. In such fireplaces they are used various systems fire imitation: from ordinary lamps and multi-colored patches to full-fledged screens, it all depends on the budget and imagination of the manufacturer.
False fireplaces in the living room interior - photos of 12 more ideas
With a mirror
Decorative firewood for the fireplace
In white tone
False fireplace in a Provence style interior
Country style
Modern classic
Decorative plasterboard
With candles
In the dining room
In a bright room
Wood
Near the plants
Unfortunately, it is impossible to install a fireplace in the apartment that will work fully. Owners of private houses are luckier from this point of view - a fireplace can become a reality, especially if you plan it at the stage of designing the house. But if you really want to decorate your interior with a fireplace, then a worthy alternative will become a decorative fireplace. Moreover, you can make it yourself, and then your interior will be truly unique and inimitable.
Building a decorative fireplace doesn't really require any special skills. All you need is some time, a few construction tools and materials. As a rule, every owner has tools, but today you can also use rental services. And there will be no difficulties at all with the materials, since their selection in specialized stores is very large.
What could a fireplace be like?
What the fireplace will ultimately look like depends on general style premises. If the room is kept in classic style, then a square fireplace with stucco or bas-reliefs would be appropriate. It can be finished with marble or brick tiles.
If the room is made in the Art Nouveau style, then reflective materials can be used for decoration. For high-tech, it is recommended to pay attention to the shape of the fireplace - there may be non-standard acute-angled shapes and mirror trim. Today, country style in interiors is quite popular. Its signs are naturalness and simplicity, therefore the materials required are simple and even rough. Decoration with decorative elements in country style is not acceptable.
When choosing material for a decorative fireplace, it is better to be guided by the degree of complexity of its processing and installation. You can of course use wood, brick or even stones. However, for an apartment such a design may be too cumbersome. Drywall offers great opportunities when working. We suggest considering the option of making a decorative fireplace from this material.
Decorative fireplace made of plasterboard
Drywall today is affordable and relatively inexpensive material. In addition, it is very easy to process and install plasterboard structures does not present any particular difficulties.
To work you will need:
- drywall;
- profile (metal);
- self-tapping screws;
- screws and dowel-nails;
- Decoration Materials.
Let's take a step-by-step look at the process of making a decorative fireplace:
- You should start with a sketch. You decide on the location of the fireplace and draw a sketch. Based on the sketch, it is necessary to calculate the actual dimensions and quantity of required materials. If the fireplace is in the corner of the room, then you will have to assemble its frame separately and then install it. If it is located near the wall, then the frame can be assembled directly on the wall.
- We will consider the option of assembling the frame against the wall. Marks are placed on the wall for attaching profiles that will become the basis of the back wall of the fireplace. For fastening it is best to use dowel nails.
- Based on the sketch, you gradually build the entire frame. To give the structure strength, be sure to make jumpers approximately every 30 cm. Then the structure will be able to withstand decorative elements placed on the mantelpiece - clocks, figurines, books, etc. If you are planning an arched top part for the fireplace, then first make cuts along the side of the profile and then you can give it the desired shape.
- Cover the finished frame with plasterboard using self-tapping screws. Actually, the base of the decorative fireplace is ready, and then it needs to be lined with the selected finishing materials.
Plasterboard facing can be very different- from painting to tiling. It all depends on the style you choose for the fireplace. Drywall itself is a very versatile material and makes it possible to improvise.
If you are going to paint, then Special attention Pay attention to the screw caps - they should be tightened well so that they do not stick out. In addition, you should prepare the surface for painting - prime it, cover it with putty and only then apply paint.
If you will be using tiles, follow the instructions for the brand of adhesive you choose. Do not forget that grouting is carried out only one day after laying the tiles. During this time, the glue will have time to dry well.
You can use other materials for finishing - it all depends on your imagination and interior design.
How to make a decorative fireplace “burn”?
When creating a fireplace, we, of course, want it to add coziness to the room, and imitation flames can be a solution to this problem. Today, devices are offered for sale that can be placed inside a decorative fireplace, and they will transmit the image of burning wood and even the characteristic crackling sound.
But you can approach this issue more creatively. For example, make the back wall of the fireplace mirrored and place logs and candles in front of it. More interesting idea- place a lamp inside and cover the firebox niche with translucent film. If the film is yellow or orange color, then it will create a warm glow effect.
There are actually many variations. And we are sure that such a decorative fireplace will become a magnificent decoration of any interior!
DIY decorative fireplace - video
DIY decorative fireplace - photo ideas
They have served man faithfully for many centuries. Having entered the 21st century, we have retained our attachment to a cozy source of heat, but how to solve the problem in urban housing?
How to make a decorative fireplace with your own hands? Design and materials
It is obvious that our apartments are not suitable for construction of a full-fledged fireplace. Technically, this is a completely impossible task, especially in apartment building. However, for those who would like to decorate the interior with such an element, there is a solution, and it lies in the construction of a false fireplace. He saves external signs a full-fledged hearth, but does not require the installation of a chimney and firebox. Moreover, making a false fireplace with your own hands is a completely doable task.
Since imitation of a hearth does not require a radical reconstruction of the room and special skills in its installation, the design of a false fireplace depends only on the imagination of the home craftsman. The main thing is the frame of the hearth. It can be made from metal profiles, wooden blocks and slats, or simply use an overlay panel with a decorative firebox window. The dimensions of the interior element being constructed depend on the size of the room itself where it will be placed.
False fireplaces: varieties and features
When planning to install a false fireplace in the interior, decide which type is most suitable for you. Designers divide them into reliable, conditional and symbolic.
Decorative fireplace made from boxes
Reliable fireplace models
They carefully observe all the parameters of a real fireplace, except for the chimney outlet. Complete copying is achieved by installing a bio-fireplace burner or a regular one in the firebox. electric fireplace. Tiles, wallpaper, and stone are used to decorate it.
Conditional fireplace
A niche in the wall, a portal (it’s also easy to make a portal for a fireplace with your own hands), imitating a firebox hole and decorated candelabra, firewood and other attributes of a real fireplace. This model does not require great depth, 20 centimeters is enough, and you can add internal volume using mirror tiles, glued on the sides and back panel of the niche.
Symbolic false fireplace (painted fireplace)
It's more of a drawing on the wall than a full-fledged structure. It can be made from ordinary ceiling skirting boards, indicating only the form, without depth.
Product style: DIY fireplace made of brick, natural stone and wood
For lovers of antiquity, this could be a stylization of medieval models using. In the spacious living room, a voluminous false fireplace with a wide mantelpiece and a deep “firebox” niche, which is actively used for decorative details, looks great. This could be a stack of firewood, family photographs, or flower arrangements.
Decorative fireplace made of plasterboard
IN modern interior In the high-tech or modern style, a false fireplace made of plasterboard takes on the most unexpected shape. It can act as a central element furniture wall and be filled with books or carry an individual load, presented in the form stylish art object made of black glass.
Advice! If you want to see the fire in the firebox, use reflective material (foil or mirror). Install electrical candles or LEDs - and a false fireplace will give you a feeling of warmth.
For the bedroom, empire or classic, made in warm colors. White panels with fancy stucco add a soft touch to the interior home comfort, and the decorative frame of the false fireplace with wood fills the room with the sophistication of aristocracy. In addition, this item can become a unique dressing table, if you place a mirror above it.
Despite the presence original solutions, the most popular remains the false fireplace with. Both professional and home designers choose candles for decoration. They are installed both in the firebox and on the mantelpiece. They are selected by size and color, arranged in various combinations, simply placed on the floor or placed in multi-tiered candelabra.
Artificial fire for a fireplace and imitation of a flame in a fireplace with your own hands
Some craftsmen resort to paints and paint the inside of the firebox with their own hands. With the right lighting, you get a stylish piece that resembles a burning hearth.
An effective solution would be to purchase a mobile false fireplace, which they will help you make in a furniture workshop, which will allow you not to tie the interior design to a stationary piece of decor, but to use it in different rooms.
The beauty of the flame of fire enchants and attracts. You can look at it without stopping for hours. And you rarely meet a person who would not dream of installing a fireplace in their home. But what to do if you live in an apartment and you can’t install a fireplace in it? This is where a decorative fireplace made of plasterboard will come to the rescue.
photos
Advantages
Decorative fireplaces are becoming more and more popular every day. If they used to emphasize their wealth, now they are a common decorative element. This is because such fireplaces bring harmony to the home and have a number of positive aspects.
- A decorative fireplace will add chic to any interior, acting as the main accent in it.
- A false fireplace is not only a decorative element, but also a heating device that will bring warmth and add comfort to your home.
- It’s nice to spend time with loved ones around it.
- Not dangerous for children.
- A decorative fireplace made of plasterboard, made by yourself, will not require large investments.
And these are just the main advantages of installing a false fireplace at home.
photos
Place for a fireplace
If you decide to install a flash fireplace in your home, then first you need to determine the location. The choice of its location is very important so that you can qualitatively create the illusion that the fireplace is quite real.
- First, we determine the room where we plan to install such a fireplace. Everything is simple here. Most likely, this will be a living room or hall. Less commonly, decorative fireplaces are installed in the bedroom.
- Secondly, we plan its placement. Usually it is installed in the middle of the longitudinal wall. But here everything depends on your wishes and the design of the room, as well as on its technical capabilities.
You should not place the fireplace in places where it will interfere. For example, near cabinets, doors and radiators. Not only will this make the installation job more difficult, but the fireplace may be damaged later.
How to do
To make a decorative fireplace yourself, you will need some skills in working with drywall, the ability and desire to create, and, of course, a tool.
First you need to make drawings. First, draw a diagram of the location of the future fireplace, or even several, and then draw the fireplace in two projections, add all the necessary dimensions. It is better to make a life-size drawing so that it can be easily tried on the wall. We develop the sketch down to the smallest detail so that you don’t have to redo anything later.
Based on the drawing, we make a model of the future fireplace from cardboard boxes or polystyrene foam. It is necessary to create all the details of the fireplace and install them with tape where you plan to place this decorative element. Carry out the layout carefully, completely in accordance with the design, in order to analyze errors in advance and eliminate them.
Let's move on to the construction of the structure. During construction we will need:
- Bulgarian;
- perforator;
- screwdriver;
- cutter;
- putty knife;
- stationery knife;
- metal scissors;
- roulette;
- building level;
- pencil.
Initially, we transfer all the details of the future fireplace onto sheets of drywall and cut it out using a grinder. We mark all parts of the fireplace on the wall, use a building level to maintain a clear horizontal and vertical line. We install guides on the wall where we plan to place the false fireplace. We do this using a hammer drill and dowels.
If you are not planning to install a false chimney and are thinking of organizing a shelf at the top for photographs and figurines, then you need to immediately strengthen the side posts to ensure the reliability of the structure. Run a cable with electricity into the structure so that you can then insert and connect an electric fireplace or LCD TV into the portal. You can assemble the frame separately, and only then install it on the wall. This option is more convenient if your fireplace is located near a wall.
Now we cover the frame with plasterboard. We do everything carefully, remembering that a deviation of a few millimeters can distort the entire picture and will not make it possible to fill the portal in the future. If the cladding of a false fireplace is supposed to be massive and heavy, then it is necessary to cover the future fireplace with two layers of plasterboard. Sheets of plasterboard with a thickness of at least 1.2 cm are suitable for lining the fireplace.
Next we move on to the putty. To do this, it is necessary to sand the edges of the drywall, prime and fill the fireplace completely. We also produce putty inside and outside. We use tape and perforated corners to connect the sheets together so that the grout holds well and the surface becomes perfectly flat.
The next stage is finishing the false fireplace. You can decorate it with any material. Tiles, artificial stone, gypsum finishing, granite, marble, just painting and much more are suitable here. It all depends on your imagination and the stylistic decision of the room as a whole.
But first you need to finish inner part decorative fireplace, especially if a heating device will be installed in it. In this case, thermal insulation is necessary. We trim the portal with magnesite and cover it with foil on top. Such a layer will reflect heat and will not allow the inner walls of the fireplace to heat up.
If there is no heating device in the false fireplace, then the inside can be decorated with a mirror.
If the fireplace is finished artificial stone or marble, then Finishing work can be omitted as putty. In this case, you just need to prime the drywall, and then glue the stone with special glue. Let the glue dry well and treat all the seams between the stone with a special grout.
Another great way to finish a plasterboard fireplace is decorative plaster. We apply it to the fireplace and, without waiting for the coating to dry, use a spatula to imitate brickwork.
Can be pasted over decorative film, choosing a suitable drawing. A huge selection of textures will make your fireplace unique.
After finishing the fireplace, it is necessary to decorate it. To do this, we use various columns, stucco moldings, and moldings. This decor will give the artificial fireplace naturalness and completeness.
Can be installed on the top of the fireplace decorative shelf, install an electric fireplace or TV in the firebox.
Interior design
The design of a decorative fireplace can be executed in any stylistic solution, and it can be equipped in different ways. What you fill the portal by the false fireplace with will determine the function of this decorative element.
- Fireplace, decorated in a classic style, decorated with marble or granite, with electric fireplace in the portal will not only bring warmth to your room, but its presentable appearance will become the central accent in the interior.
- A false chimney will add naturalness to the fireplace.
- A brick-trimmed fireplace with a TV in the firebox is suitable for a high-tech stylistic solution. Its clear lines and simple shapes fit perfectly into this style.
- Decorating in the form of Greek statues will add chic and fit into the bohemian style of the living room.
- For an apartment decorated in Art Nouveau style, a fireplace with minimal decoration is perfect.
- Candles in the portal will add a romantic touch to the decor of the room.
- The decorative fireplace can be used as a shelf for books.
- Corner false fireplace will be a decoration even in a small room.
- The top shelf can be decorated with clock figurines, adding English chic to the interior.
- A decorative fireplace trimmed with stone is perfect for a room with a rustic style.
Oddly enough, but having a comfortable home is a completely natural desire that is inherent in us. So it turns out that we are ready to spend our energy, money and time to turn our house or apartment into a place where it is pleasant to be and which we are not ashamed to show to others. One of the ways to decorate a room, make it cozy and stylish is a fireplace, also known as home. How nice it is for the whole family to gather around the fire in the house in the evening, chat, drink tea and talk. But there is one problem: for residents of private houses this possibility is quite real, but making a fireplace in an apartment with a live fire will not work. If you are a resident multi-storey building, don't be upset, we have found a solution for you.
In this article we will look at how to make a decorative fireplace with your own hands. This is a so-called false fireplace, which is visually identical to a regular one, only it can be used in an apartment. You will see not only photos, but also instructions for making a fireplace with your own hands. This is an indispensable decorative element of your apartment.
The concept of a decorative fireplace and its necessity
Everyone knows that the combustion process is accompanied by side effects such as soot, debris and, most importantly, smoke. That is why an ordinary fireplace cannot do without an ash pan and a chimney, which solve all problems. In addition, this design has an impressive weight, which does not allow installing such a fireplace in an apartment. The floor slab may not be able to withstand it. So it turns out that a decorative fireplace is an ideal alternative for those who, no matter what, want to have this element in their home. Even without special skills in construction, you can make it yourself.
Note! There are so-called biofireplaces that are used for apartments. Alcohol or other biological fuel is burned inside as a raw material. In this case, no smoke, dirt, ash, etc. is formed. Only the process of combustion and heat generation occurs. However, the products are quite expensive. But, if you don't mind the money, you can use this alternative option.
There are even electric fireplaces on sale that are easy and quick to install. But not everyone can afford it; in addition, a decorative fireplace with your own hands will be much more original. You will put your whole soul into it, so it will be valued differently. Here your imagination can run wild. With such a decorative element, your neighbors will simply be jealous.
As you can see in the photo above, it is difficult to distinguish it from the real thing. In addition, the design has a number of advantages:
- Low cost, since you only need to spend money on materials.
- Simplicity of materials and their availability. Anyone can work with them, without professional skills.
- It is possible to change the decor at will at any time. Everything depends on you.
- The decoration uses inexpensive, but quite original and beautiful materials.
- You will receive a full-fledged fireplace, which, while not replacing the original, will be a worthy alternative.
- Your room will be transformed and become original.
In the end, we would like to draw your attention to 3 types or groups of decorative fireplaces that you can create. The first group is authentic fireplaces, which are like two peas in a pod and look like the real thing. We are talking about size, design and design principle. Inside such a fireplace there may even be a bio-fireplace burner or other options for simulating fire. This option is expensive, but looks ideal.
The second group is conventional fireplaces. They have a protruding portal from the wall. You can decorate this design however you like, bringing to life the most extravagant and unusual ideas. The hole for the firebox is often filled with candles or firewood.
But the third group is symbolic fireplaces, which are made from the most different materials. They vaguely resemble a real hearth. More often than not, they bear almost no resemblance to him. It's getting to the point where it's simple wallpaper or an image with decor, just like Papa Carlo’s.
What can you use to make a decorative false fireplace?
You will be surprised, but there are more than enough materials for work. They are simple, accessible, inexpensive and beautiful. If everything is done correctly, then even the most cheap material will look noble. So, here is a list of materials that you can use for this purpose:
- drywall;
- classic bricks;
- plywood sheets;
- wood;
- Styrofoam;
- polyurethane;
- and even cardboard.
Note! if you have old furniture, then you can use it. After all, it would be a shame to throw it away, but as a fireplace it will be transformed and will last for several more years.
Let's look at how to make decorative fireplaces with your own hands from some of the materials listed above.
Polyurethane fireplace
If you are looking for the lightest and most quick method creating a fireplace, we hit the nail on the head. All you need is to purchase a polyurethane fireplace portal. All that remains is to choose the style and size that will fit into the room, and the rest is a matter of technique. The body of such a fireplace is lightweight, and installation does not take much time. The photo shows what results can be obtained.
What will you need for the job?
That's all. All that remains is step-by-step instructions that will help you cope with the task. In fact, you don’t need to build anything, since you purchased a ready-made portal, which just needs to be fixed in place to the wall. Dust-free work:
You can make a fireplace out of wood using exactly the same principle. But it should be noted that the wooden portals that are on sale have a high cost. However, outwardly everything looks much more noble. Look at the photo to see what effect you can achieve if you put in the effort.
Plywood fireplace
A pretty good option if the room has some kind of flaw or defect. Some are trying to transform an old radiator. With the help of a decorative fireplace made of plywood, you can realize this idea.
To begin with, the design should be made on paper. Everyone knows what it is. You need to do some calculations and create a drawing of the fireplace you want to make. Alternatively, you can already use finished project from the Internet. Here, for example, is one of these options.
Dimensions, design, appearance - you can customize all this to suit yourself. Next comes a hammer, saw, screwdriver and tape measure. The first step is to create the frame of your fireplace. Slats or wooden blocks are suitable for this purpose.
You can connect elements to each other in any way. It is more reliable if they are self-tapping screws. Although nails will also work. Then all that remains is to sheathe the frame with plywood. Regarding the design and appearance products, then you can adjust it in the process. As an option, make a podium to the portal. Look at the photo to see how the frame of the decorative fireplace has been transformed and has become similar to the finished version.
On the block back wall you can fix the firebox, which will imitate the hearth. But surfaces that can be viewed from the outside can be decorated with self-adhesive. Here is one of the design options for a decorative fireplace made of plywood.
And here is the view of the abrasion. In order to hide the wall, you can cover the inside with the same film.
The advantage of the design is that it is easy to remove, since at this stage it is not fixed to the surface. This allows you to have access to the battery. And for a better effect, you can install stones, pebbles or firewood on the radiator by installing a metal mesh on it.
And as a final touch, you can make a fireplace grate. Then your design will be practically no different from a natural hearth. You can make it yourself or buy it in a store. The basis is copper or aluminum wire. It is easy to bend and shape. You can draw a grid on paper in advance or print it out as a guide.
The wire needs to be fixed to the decorative fireplace itself in four places. And to hide the pipe that goes to the radiator, continue the fireplace podium, as shown in the photo.
Such an original, beautiful, noble and almost natural miracle can be obtained if you put in some effort, ingenuity and time. You can hide any other defect in your home or simply install such a false fireplace.
Note! A fireplace is made from plasterboard using exactly the same principle. But everything needs to be sheathed with this particular material. There is nothing complicated, the result is also excellent.
DIY decorative fireplace from furniture
This option can be called the most budget-friendly, because you already have almost all the materials for the work. All that remains is to transform all this into artificial fireplace. Ideally suitable old sideboard or closet. In addition, stock up on the following tools and materials:
- sheets of plywood;
- acrylic paint;
- putty;
- LED flight;
- stucco molding, decorative elements, gypsum finishing stone;
- screwdriver;
- grinding machine;
- jigsaw.
We begin to transform a sideboard or wardrobe into a false fireplace.
You can put more effort into finishing the design of the fireplace and making it indistinguishable from the real thing. You can stick it around the perimeter of the firebox inside LED strip. Ideally yellow or red, as this is an imitation of a burning flame. You can add shells, sand or pebbles to the bottom of the decorative firebox.
That's all, as a result you have a decorative fireplace that no one else has. It is no worse than a natural fireplace, only there is no fire. Otherwise, it's just an ideal decorative element. And the knowledge that you made it with your own hands will warm you better than any fire.
Interior Design village house with your own hands
