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. The low cost results 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 a decorative element from 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. Polystyrene 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. The low mass of the 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 structure. 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 the use of 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 by 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 at 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, various strips and building decorative panels. We recommend starting work from the corners.
 | 5. Thin wood splits when twisted with a screw, so before screwing in 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 extensively capturing the market 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
A fireplace with burning wood is an object from books and films that can rarely be seen in someone’s home. real life. This pleasure is expensive, and besides, installing a real fireplace in an apartment is almost impossible. But for those who really want to have such a home, there is an alternative - DIY decorative fireplaces.
In order to make decorative fireplaces for an apartment, it is not necessary to have special skills and experience, the main thing is to use your imagination and have several on hand construction tools and materials.
Types of decorative fireplaces
It can become the main decoration of any room, but it is very important that it matches the main interior. Therefore, before you start making a fireplace, you should choose the style in which the fireplace will be made.
For It is better to make a square-shaped fireplace. You can decorate it with bas-reliefs and stucco, you can also use artificial stones that imitate precious stones. It is better to make the lining of such a fireplace from brick or marble tiles.
For a country style interior, it is better to use rough materials. In this case, imitation hearth and home should look as simple as possible, decorative elements are not welcome.
For a room decorated in Art Nouveau style, a decorative fireplace made, for example, from reflective materials is suitable. And a fireplace will fit perfectly into the high-tech style unusual shape With sharp corners, decorated with mirror elements.
Decorative fireplace made of plasterboard
Fake fireplace can be made from plasterboard - this material is sold in any hardware store and it's not very expensive.
For the base of the fireplace you will need metallic profile.
In addition, you must purchase:
- screws;
- metal screws;
- dowel-nails;
- cladding materials;
The process of making the base of a decorative fireplace
Step one.
First of all, you need to draw a sketch of the fireplace on a reduced scale on a regular sheet of paper. Then you need to find a suitable wall in the house, make the necessary calculations and mark the places where the base of the fireplace will go. If the fireplace is located in a corner, you will first have to completely assemble the base and only then install it; in other cases, you can assemble the frame directly on the wall.
Step two.
It is necessary to cut the metal profile based on the marks on the wall, and then assemble the back wall of the fireplace. The base must be secured with self-tapping screws. It is better to fasten the frame to the wall using dowel nails.
Step three.
Gradually you need to assemble the base completely - for this it is better to check the drawing, otherwise you can get confused in the calculations and the fireplace will turn out uneven. To make the fireplace stable, you need to make jumpers every thirty centimeters. If the fireplace has an arch-shaped top, you need to make cuts on the sides of the profile and only then give it the shape of an arc.
Step four.
Now you can move on to cutting the drywall. For this it is better to use a hacksaw or jigsaw, but if you don’t have such tools, you can arm yourself with a regular knife. Before cutting, you need to measure each side of the base so that you don’t have to cut off excess parts later on the finished fireplace. You can screw the parts to the base using 25mm self-tapping screws. The base for the decorative fireplace is ready.
Plasterboard fireplace cladding
A plasterboard fireplace can be painted or covered with decorative tiles. Based on what the cladding will be, you need to properly prepare the plasterboard base.
If decorative fireplace will be painted, you need to tighten the screws well so that the caps do not stick out. It is also worth remembering that first the base must be coated with a primer, then putty, and only then paint.
If the base will be covered with tiles, then you should proceed from the recommendations that are written on the glue box. Under no circumstances should you rub the seams right away - this work must be done after a day, during which time the glue will have time to dry.
A decorative fireplace will also need a shelf - you can purchase a regular one wooden board or a stair tread at a hardware store.
Decorating a plasterboard fireplace
Plasterboard fireplace - robust design. Therefore, you can give it a natural effect using ordinary building materials.
For example, the firebox can be covered with tiles, artificial bricks or mirror panels.
The top of the fireplace can also be decorated, or you can install a shelf that will definitely hold several books, candles or figurines. You can also attach a decorative metal fence to this fireplace.
Cardboard fireplace
Another material that is suitable for creating a simple decorative fireplace with your own hands is cardboard. To make the imitation of a home fire stable, it is better to use a cardboard box from some item household appliances.
In addition to the box, you will need a knife, ruler, pencil, scissors, large stapler and construction tape. To decorate the fireplace, you can use wallpaper with a brick wall pattern..
The process of making a fireplace from cardboard
Step one.
First you need to draw a sketch of the fireplace, then you need to draw the future fireplace on the box.
Step two.
The excess parts of the box must be cut off, then you need to secure the future fireplace with a stapler and seal all the joints of the cardboard base with construction tape.
Step three.
Using a special or regular knife, you need to cut out the firebox for the fireplace. You can cut out only the top and sides of the firebox, then fold the cardboard inside the box to create a shelf. It is also better to secure it with construction tape.
Step four.
The finished base can be attached to the wall at this stage. You can use double-sided construction tape for this.
Step five.
After this, you need to cut the wallpaper and paste over the fireplace. If you don't want to mess around, you can use self-adhesive film and brick pattern, but the wallpaper will look more natural.
Step six.
Now you can decorate the top of the fireplace - to do this, you can cut out a shelf from cardboard or purchase decorative elements from foam plastic.
Decorative fireplaces made from other materials
People who have construction skills can do decorative brick fireplace- however, in an apartment it is better to lay out real bricks small fireplace, or just a frame for it.
Also popular wooden fireplaces. You can also make them yourself. But for those who do not have experience working with wood, this method of creating a home is not suitable.
The basis for a decorative fireplace can be, for example, old chest of drawers- but you will also have to attach boards and other wooden elements that will need to be processed. So this method of creating a decorative fireplace is also suitable for people who know how to work with wood.
Simulated flame
DIY decorative fireplaces It’s not that difficult to do, it’s much more difficult to figure out how to make an imitation of fire.
One of the expensive ways is to buy a special electrical device that will display an image of burning firewood and also make a crackling noise corresponding to this process.
You can also depict fire, as in the fairy tale “Pinocchio”. That is, you can simply stick a picture of burning logs on a decorative fireplace. It is better that the pattern is small and located on the back surface of the firebox.
In addition, the fake fireplace can be decorated with light bulbs or New Year's garland. A garland wound around real firewood will look interesting - this method is suitable for a plasterboard fireplace.
For a plasterboard fireplace, you can also make a mirrored firebox and put regular candles there. The flame will reflect beautifully and create a cozy atmosphere.
Another interesting option- place an ordinary small one in the fireplace niche table lamp and seal the firebox with a translucent film of yellow or orange color. In this case, you need to figure out where to hide the wire so that the lamp can be turned on and off as needed.
If your decorative fireplace does not have room to place any items, you can place a few treated logs in front of the fireplace and place beautiful candlesticks on them.
Unusual decoration of decorative fireplaces
It should, first of all, please the eye, so it is not necessary to decorate it with firewood and place a poker next to it. Designers offer many original ideas.
There is always a clock near a real fireplace; it either hangs above the hearth or stands on the mantelpiece. If there is a decorative fireplace at home, interior decorators suggest installing a clock in a niche or firebox. Such a fireplace with a clock will definitely attract attention.
You can also give the fireplace an unusual look with the help of several shelves installed in a niche. You can put small figurines, candles or boxes with some little things on them.
As a rule, people read near fireplaces, so you can decorate a fireplace with a square firebox with good books. The niche can be completely filled with your favorite books in bright covers - it looks very unusual.
You can also decorate a decorative fireplace using paintings or photographs. Small frames can be hung around the perimeter of the fireplace, and large frames can be beautifully placed in a niche.
The desire for comfort and coziness is inherent in each of us. The warmth of a home is not an empty word. What could be better than spending evenings by the fireplace watching the flames? Owners of private houses can afford a real fireplace, but for residents of city apartments this, unfortunately, is an unaffordable luxury. But for real masters nothing is impossible, and today we will tell you how to make a false fireplace in an apartment.
What is a false fireplace and why is it needed?
In a city apartment, conditions will not allow you to install a regular fireplace. The lack of chimneys and floors not designed for such loads are the main obstacles to obtaining permission to build such a structure. False fireplaces come to the rescue, which you can easily assemble yourself without having any special skills in construction work.
Of course, you can buy an electric fireplace - such devices are now common, and their installation will not take much time and effort. But the creation of a fireplace with my own hands- Very exciting activity, it gives free rein to imagination, allows you to create an exclusive thing. In addition, an open fire in an apartment is not necessary (and you are unlikely to be allowed to do so), and a false fireplace will serve as a multifunctional decoration.
Note! Although you won't light a fire in a false fireplace, still don't put flammable things underneath. Especially if the structure covers heating radiators or you plan to place electrical appliances in the firebox.
False fireplace looks like a real one
U artificial fireplaces there are such advantages:
- cheap - you only need money for materials;
- availability of materials necessary for the manufacture of the structure;
- the ability to change the decor at any time according to your mood;
- use of inexpensive, but original and beautiful materials in decoration.
False fireplaces are divided into 3 groups:
- Reliable artificial fireplaces completely imitate real ones, respecting both dimensions and design principles. Inside the firebox you can install a bio-fireplace burner, which will provide an almost exact effect of a burning hearth. Quite an expensive option, but it looks the most plausible.
- Conventional false fireplaces have a portal protruding from the wall. They can be decorated according to your taste and desire. The combustion hole is usually filled with firewood or candles are placed there.
- Symbolic ones can be made from any materials. Their peculiarity is that they are not at all like an ordinary fireplace. It could even be a drawing made on the wall with some decorative elements.
Manufacturing options
To make artificial fireplaces, the simplest materials are used, which can always be found not only in the store, but also at home:
- drywall;
- plywood;
- Styrofoam;
- cardboard;
- tree;
- brick;
- polyurethane.
You can make such a structure even from old furniture, which has already served its purpose, but it’s a pity to throw it away.
This is the simplest and quick way. You only need to buy a polyurethane portal for the fireplace. The most difficult thing in this task will be choosing the style and size suitable for the room, and everything else will take you a minimum of time and effort.
If you want to install an electric fireplace, take into account its installation and dimensions, method of connection to the electrical network and quality of ventilation.
The lightweight body of the false fireplace made of polyurethane will save you from many installation hassles
You will need:
- polyurethane portal for the fireplace;
- contact glue;
- putty;
- materials for finishing the firebox (for example, decorative brick).
Now we’ll tell you step by step how to install such a fireplace.
- The best place to install such a fireplace is one of the side walls of the room. The structure should not clutter the room or interfere with passage.
- If you decide to place an electric fireplace or decorative electric lighting inside the portal, take care of the wiring and socket first.
- Make the firebox frame from profiles or wooden blocks, and the walls from plywood or plasterboard.
- Install the portal, carefully secure it with contact glue. Carefully fill the gaps between the portal and the firebox with finishing putty.
- Finish the firebox in the style you choose, or install an electric fireplace. If desired, you can install a mantel made of artificial stone or wood.
Such portals are made not only from polyurethane, but also from wood. They are much more expensive, but among them you can find real masterpieces, additionally equipped, for example, with a built-in bar.
Plywood construction
This idea is useful if you need to hide some defect in the room, for example, an old heating radiator, the replacement of which will not be cheap. A false fireplace will come in handy here.
The need to cover up an old heating radiator is an excellent opportunity to install a false fireplace
Carry out calculations and make a drawing of the future structure. This will help you avoid wasting extra money and time.
Drawing of a standard fireplace
Note! When you develop a drawing, refer to ready-made options stone fireplaces. Based on them, you can easily design your false fireplace.
First of all, install the frame directly in place. Wooden blocks are suitable for it.
Frame made of bars for a false fireplace
Next, cover the frame with plywood. The design of the fireplace and its appearance can be adjusted during operation. For example, you can add a podium to the portal. There is a heating battery inside the structure, so it is better to assemble the frame with screws: nails in conditions high temperature do not guarantee a tight fit of plywood to the bars in the future.
Frame covered with plasterboard
By back wall attach a firebox that imitates a fireplace to the block. Cover all surfaces visible from the outside with self-adhesive film.
Install the firebox and cover it with film
Cover the corners of the portal with a wooden layout, and cover it with film of the same color.
The corners of the portal need to be closed and also covered with film.
This design is easily removable (it is not attached to the wall at this stage), and you can easily access the radiator. The firebox needs to be decorated with something, so you can put a metal mesh tray on the radiator.
A metal mesh tray that will become the bottom of the firebox
You will fill it with pebbles, firewood or other decorative elements.
Fill the metal mesh with pebbles or other filler.
You can order a fireplace grate or make it yourself. For this you will need a copper profile. If this is not available, aluminum wire inserted into a vinyl chloride tube and painted with gold paint will do. This grille is attached to the fireplace body copper wire in 4 places.
Metal grating diagram
The pipes that go to the battery can be covered with an extension of the podium.
Cover the heating pipes with a podium
So that useful space does not go to waste, create a bar under the fireplace mantel.
Using extra space
As a result, you will get a fireplace like this, almost indistinguishable from the real thing.
Ready-made false fireplace
New life for old furniture
This is the most a budget option. You probably have old wardrobe or sideboard. Don’t rush to throw away this piece of furniture: on its basis you can easily make an excellent imitation of a fireplace with lighting.
you will need:
- plywood sheets;
- wood sander;
- jigsaw;
- screwdriver;
- acrylic paint;
- putty;
- LED Strip Light;
- stucco molding, decorative elements, gypsum finishing stone;
- surfaces.
- Remove the doors from the old sideboard and remove the lower cabinet. The top section will remain, place it on its side.
Preparing an old sideboard for use
- Screw two beams in front.
Screw 2 beams
- Attach two sheets of plywood to the bars at the top and bottom. This will give the fireplace the required thickness.
Secure the plywood sheets
- Cut a hole in the door of the side cabinet (which is now located at the bottom) for the “blower”. Here you can store firewood, just like in a real fireplace.
Cut out a hole for the “blower”
- Your raised fireplace will need a pedestal and mantel. They can be used as two headboards from an old bed. Don't forget to unscrew their legs.
The headboards of the bed will serve as a pedestal and mantelpiece.
- The design is ready, now we need to start finishing works. Sand the polished surfaces to roughen them. Prime the walls; after they dry, putty and level the surface. Dry the putty and sand down any uneven surfaces. Paint the body with acrylic paint, trim the corners with bricks or artificial stone. Glue on decorative elements and install a mantelpiece.
Finishing a false fireplace from old furniture
- Decorate the firebox. Glue LED strip around the perimeter. Red or yellow will do - they will perfectly imitate a smoldering fire. Place shells, pebbles or sand at the bottom.
Decorate the firebox: glue in an LED strip, add pebbles, shells or sand to the bottom
As a result, you will have this gorgeous vintage-style fireplace.
Ready-made false fireplace from an old sideboard
Imitation of a fireplace made of plasterboard
This time we will consider the option corner false fireplace from plasterboard. This task will be more difficult than the previous ones. Why a corner fireplace? Because in a small apartment, the corner is the freest place, which is ideal for installing such a structure.
Corner false fireplace made of plasterboard
So, you will need the following materials:
- metal profile - 13 pcs;
- moisture-resistant plasterboard 9.5 mm - 3 sheets;
- tiles - 5 m;
- self-tapping screws - 200 pcs;
- tile grout;
- LED Strip Light;
- decorative lattice.
- Calculate the dimensions. Please note: if you need to close the battery, you need to do it in such a way that it can be easily reached. For possible emergency situations It is better to run the battery through the lower opening.
Approximate diagram of a corner fireplace
- After the calculations have been made and the fireplace diagram has been drawn up, begin installing the frame. A ceiling profile is suitable for it, and it is also cheaper.
- Immediately make electrical wiring for the lighting. As you can see in the first photo, in our case there are three output points: two on the facade and one above the shelf. An LED strip is used as illumination.
- The combustion hole can be made with double walls. Non-flammable insulation will be laid between them.
Finishing a false fireplace with decorative tiles
- For decorative finishing, you can use stone-like tiles. It is made of plaster, so it is not suitable for work surfaces.
This fireplace takes up approximately 1.6 square meters. You can place a small electric fireplace or a small alcohol burner inside the firebox.
Finishing
It is very important that the fireplace fits harmoniously into the interior of the room. You should carefully choose the style and color. But also decorative finishing should please the eye and create comfort.
How to simulate fire in a fireplace? Above, we offered options with LED strip, which provides illumination with a burning effect. But progress does not stand still, and an electronic photo frame can serve you well. It is a liquid crystal display that is designed to display pictures. You need a model that can play animated files, such as GIFs. Upload an image of a burning fire to your photo frame and enjoy!
- Many owners of false fireplaces love to decorate niches with candles of different heights. It looks beautiful, stylish, and gives a real live fire.
- An excellent choice would be to install a mirror deep in the combustion chamber, on the wall. The mirror will multiply the reflections from candles or electric lighting and add mystery to the fireplace.
- Artificial stone will help you achieve the effect of an expensive finish. It is available in a variety of color and texture options. Tiles, bas-reliefs and decorative tiles will give expressive individuality to the structure. But don’t overdo it: excessive pomp may be out of place in your interior.
- Doors for false fireplaces will probably be superfluous, but if you decide to install them, make them from plexiglass. They can be transparent or tinted, but they simply must allow light and glare of the “fire” to pass through.
- It is better to decorate the firebox of an imitation fireplace with a forged metal grate. It can be bought or ordered from the workshop.
Photo gallery of artificial fireplaces
An original and laconic option - a simple niche with candles 
Video: how to make a false fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands
As you can see, building a fireplace at home yourself is not at all difficult, and it’s also cheap, especially if it’s just an imitation. Accuracy, attention, the desire to do something original and creative imagination - that’s all you need to enjoy comfort, like the heroes of classic films. Share with us your experience in implementing such ideas, or ask any questions you have on this topic. Easy work for you and comfort for your home!
Share with your friends!Evgeniy Sedov
When your hands grow from the right place, life is more fun :)
Content
Photo exquisite interiors apartments or houses, the main decoration of which is a decorative fireplace, have won many hearts of connoisseurs of comfort and beauty. Creating the same interesting art object at home or in the country will not be difficult. Designers have come up with many ways to arrange an original hearth using inexpensive materials and having minimal skills.
What is a decorative fireplace
A full-fledged hearth with a chimney, firebox, and real live fire is a luxury not available to everyone. The designers suggested that an imitation fireplace would look very advantageous in home interior. Such a decorative object can be not only a simple decoration, but also a functional piece of furniture - a shelf for books, CDs, home photographs.
DIY decorative fireplace
Dreaming of a home fire, you can create an artificial fireplace with your own hands or purchase ready product. Simple decorative solution– an electric false fireplace in the interior, it can be purchased at any hardware store. The electric fireplace is suitable for rooms that require additional heating. The eco-fireplace looks interesting; it uses ethyl alcohol with the addition of bioethanol to create an even flame without smoke or soot. Bio-fireplaces are very popular in interiors; not only floor-mounted fireplaces are used, but also tabletop and wall-mounted eco-fireplaces.
From plasterboard
Ready-made bio-electrical devices, although they look attractive, do not always suit the interior, and are not affordable for everyone. Interesting solution- decorative fireplaces made of plasterboard. A custom false hearth will transform your living room without spending a lot of money. Another important advantage: You can decorate the original building in any style, using stone, brick, wood, forging.
First, you should prepare a full-size drawing to calculate the dimensions of the structure, individual elements. Will be needed, except plasterboard sheets, metal profiles, screws for metal. Step-by-step instructions will help you implement the project:
- A frame is attached to the wall metal profile, which will play the role of a supporting element, a frame is made from a profile, self-tapping screws are used.
- The frame is covered with plasterboard.
- Drywall joints and places where screws are attached are sealed with putty, leveling and sanding of the surface are carried out.
- The fireplace is decorated with artificial stone, ceramic tiles, it can be decorated with decorative elements made of polyurethane, and a decorative grille.
From cardboard
When you want to create an inexpensive but effective decoration on the eve of the New Year holidays, a decorative fireplace made of cardboard will ideally fulfill this role, especially if you take care of the decoration: garlands, New Year's boots, candles. You need to prepare:
- thick cardboard (you can use packaging from household appliances);
- construction tape;
- PVA glue;
- tools.
Having estimated the dimensions of the future object and prepared a drawing, you can start working:
- Using a sharp utility knife, tape, and PVA glue, a portal is created from cardboard. It is more difficult to make a corner fireplace. Having accurately measured the angle, you need to calculate the dimensions of the structure so that large gaps do not form between the walls and the upper tabletop.
- The front part of the decorative fireplace is finished with polyurethane moldings, including around the firebox.
- When all the parts are firmly fixed, the structure is puttied, smoothing out all the errors, and sanded.
- Painting is done with water-based paint.
From foam plastic
If there are materials left over from the renovation, it’s worth trying to make a decorative fireplace from polystyrene foam. You will get an inexpensive imitation of a fireplace in an apartment if you do everything correctly:
- Sheets of foam plastic are cut with a stationery knife: two pieces measuring 60x40 cm and two pieces measuring 40x20 cm.
- The blanks are glued together at right angles to the joints, smeared with PVA glue and secured with wooden toothpicks and tape on the inside.
- In the front part of the frame, a firebox is cut out with a knife.
- The frame must be primed and cleaned with fine sandpaper, paint with water-based paint.
- The decor is made with elegant ribbon, finishing paper, polyurethane baseboards, moldings, and decorative elements.
Made of wood
A false fireplace made of wood will be durable and functional. Accurate drawing will help you avoid mistakes and unnecessary waste of material. The frame is made from wooden beam with a cross section of 40x40 mm, plywood is used for cladding. Having some experience in carpentry, such an object can be made in a few evenings:
- The timber is marked, and the base of the fireplace is made using wood screws. Vertical racks The dowel is attached to the wall with nails.
- plywood sheet 0.5-0.7 cm thick is marked and cut with a jigsaw or hand hacksaw according to the sizes. The sections are treated with sandpaper.
- Plywood is attached to wooden frame with self-tapping screws, covering the base and firebox.
- Fireplace decor is done using finishing film, wallpaper, decorative panels, polyurethane baguettes and moldings.
Do-it-yourself imitation of fire in a fireplace
What is a fireplace without a mesmerizing flame? You can simulate a fire in a fireplace with your own hands different ways. The simplest solution is to install backlighting using a “Candle” lamp or LED strip. An interesting effect will be obtained if you perform a composition for which you need:
- wooden branches;
- beautiful stones;
- lace;
- foil,
- New Year's garland;
- PVA glue.
The sequence of work is as follows:
- Each branch is wrapped in foil, a layer of glue is applied on top and overlapped with lace.
- When the pasted branches have dried, the lace sheath is carefully removed by cutting along the branch with a stationery knife. P
- In the hearth, stones are laid out in a circle, in the middle of which an LED garland is installed. Openwork branches are placed vertically, at an angle, so that the lower edges rest on the stones, and the upper edges touch each other. You can make the structure more durable with glue or tape.
- All that remains is to connect the garland and admire the flickering lights.
Artificial fire for the fireplace
There are other ways to depict artificial fire in a fireplace - both expensive and budget ones. For example, it is not difficult to simulate fire using a hologram, for which you need to purchase a picture of a flame depicted in three-dimensional format. Having installed the picture in the firebox, you need to install lighting using halogen or LED bulbs. The 3D image, skillfully illuminated with flickering light, will enhance the feeling that a live fire is burning
Imitation of firewood for a fireplace
Using an LED strip or garland for illumination, you can lay out a picturesque pyramid of firewood in the firebox, masking the lighting between them. Online stores sell special artificial firewood for fireplaces made of plastic and ceramics. You just need to connect such elements to the power supply, and they will be beautifully illuminated from the inside with built-in light bulbs.
False fireplace with candles
A false fireplace with candles looks cozy in the interior. When arranging it, it is important to remember fire safety. Thick candles are installed in the firebox lined with non-combustible materials. Compositions made from candles of different heights look especially advantageous. It's nice to light the lights on winter evenings; their flickering light creates a special atmosphere of warmth and love.
Video: How to make a decorative fireplace with your own hands
Creating a false fireplace is an exciting activity; even women can implement such a project. The main thing is to study the advice of experts, think carefully about the design and take care of fire safety if you plan to use live fire. The videos will help you understand the basic principles of constructing a decorative fireplace from different materials.
It’s not difficult to give the room additional charm and comfort if you build a decorative fireplace using your skills ordinary tools and using your own imagination. Such an improvised home does not require large quantity materials, often leftovers from repairs are used.
Varieties
It’s easy to pick up ready-made portals for indoor fireplaces in a store, but if you want, you can build a decorative fireplace with your own hands using different materials. The most common are portals made of brick, plasterboard, wood and laminated chipboard or MDF.
If we consider the classification of decorative fireplaces by functionality, the following varieties are distinguished:
- imitation classic fireplace in the form of a portal with decoration and an empty niche;
- reproducing an accurate image of fire using electrical devices;
- Some models of decorative fireplaces provide an option to create an auditory imitation of logs crackling as they burn;
- Availability additional function heating
Depending on the method of placement, several types are classified:
- wall;
- corner;
- mounted;
- built-in;
- island.
Construction stages
The algorithm for constructing artificial fireplaces for a home from any materials is identical and consists of several stages.
Selecting the shape of the portal, calculating the dimensions of each detail, drawing up a drawing. Transferring the main lines in an exact scale to the wall near which the decorative fireplace will be installed with constant control of the exact horizontals and verticals.
Choice of material for the base. A reliable and stable frame is made from a metal profile, but it is easier to make it from a wooden beam.
Wall mount aluminum profile(beam) using dowels. The frame is assembled with stiffening ribs if subsequent finishing will be done with heavy materials.
Sheathing the top surface and side planes
Preparing drywall for finishing involves applying a thin layer of putty followed by priming after drying. You will also need to apply finishing putty and prime.
Flame imitation devices are installed after the decorative fireplace has been finalized using finishing materials. Fire safety measures must be observed if a model with heating elements is chosen for the home. In this case, the walls of the niche are protected by basalt thermal insulation, which has high fire-resistant qualities.
Home made from traditional materials
Drywall
Refers to a material widely used by home craftsmen. It can be easily cut with a sharp knife or electric jigsaw, allows you to make curved parts, for which you just need to wet it.
When designing decorative fireplaces using plasterboard, it is necessary Special attention pay attention to the selection of finishes and calculation of dimensions if you decide to install a device with combined functions. In this case, the fireplace will not only delight you with a magnificent imitation of flame, but also heat the room.
For such models, the gap between the rear plane of the device and the wall is maintained at least 50 mm. Based on this, the dimensions of the future fireplace portal are calculated. For cladding you can take ceramic tiles, textured porcelain tiles. Gypsum stucco looks great.
Tree
DIY decorative false fireplace in 1 day
Solid wood for a portal is not a necessary material if you want to get the natural texture of a home. You can even make a decorative fireplace from construction scraps of plywood, MDF, and chipboard. This can be a board - parquet, unedged or edged.
It is more convenient to start work if electric fireplace with the desired options has already been purchased. In this case, its dimensions and shape are known, so it is easier to calculate the niche when constructing the portal. The structure can be assembled separately using self-tapping screws, and only then attached to the wall. A bright decorative effect while preserving the wood texture is achieved by staining followed by varnishing. You can use tinted varnish.
Brick
To make a decorative fireplace with your own hands using bricks - silicate, hollow, facing, decorative, you must take into account that its weight will be quite impressive. For this reason, it is impractical to correctly assess the strength of floors. Such a retro fireplace at home looks great, without requiring additional finishing.
Using improvised means
You can make original decorative fireplaces for your home using a variety of available materials:
- place inside an empty aquarium or a beautiful glass vase candles. You can use a miniature biofuel burner;
- make a semi-volume decorative fireplace by gluing its configuration from polyurethane parts directly onto the wall and painting it in the desired color;
- create fireplace portal from big cardboard box, decorating its surface to any texture using self-adhesive film;
- bring into the interior a feeling of comfort from the presence of a mesmerizing flame with the help of photo wallpapers that depict the most different types fireplaces.
If you have the skills to work with metal, you can create at home unique image fireplace portal made of this material.
Finishing methods
You can decorate a decorative fireplace in different ways. If desired, the portal is painted or artistic painting is done. Fireplace surfaces with decorative plaster bring a touch of aristocracy to the interior.
The use of finishing materials stylized as stone - balanced status granite, mysterious sophisticated marble or mesmerizingly beautiful malachite - gives the façade of the fireplace a special sophistication. The original composition is laid out if mosaic elements are used for cladding.
Designing decorative fireplaces for an apartment designed with elements classic style, you should pay attention to the special tiles, made with a textured surface reminiscent of tiles. The fireplace portal created with their help allows you to reproduce the unique atmosphere of ancient estates.
Video: Decorative panels and aged fireplace
