Put Some Spark - Or Sparkle -
In Your Fireplace Design!

A good fireplace design brings a room to life and
offers an inviting retreat.  No other architectural
element adds as much character to a room as  a
fireplace.

It is also a sound investment.   A study support-
ed by the National Association of Realtors found
that  a  fireplace  adds  12%  to  the value of a
home.

The National Association of Home Builders states
that  a fireplace is one of the top three most de-
sirable features for homeowners.   Indeed, nearly
60%  of  all new homes built include at least one
fireplace.

From a design standpoint, a fireplace read-
ily lends itself to individual expression  and offers a unique opportunity to make a per-
sonal statement.

For a sleek contemporary look,   sprinkle  it with sparkle!     Create  an  ember  bed  of colored glass crystals and frame it  with  a polished stainless steel surround,  such  as pictured in the example at right . . . . .

Or go for the "real deal" and install  a  limit-
ed edition Napoleon Fireplace with Swar-
ovski crystals,  such as shown in the photo below.

Don't be afraid to put some spark -- or sparkle -- into it to make it truly your own . . . . . to reflect your unique personality, style, and taste!

VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED READING!

When creating a fireplace plan for today,
I look to the past . . . not only at mantels and surrounds from another era, but at other architectural elements, as well . . . and then blend them together, along with current technology, to create a truly unique fire space that adds drama to your room.


A fireplace design . . .

that conveys a sense of history, perma-
nence, stability, and continuity through
its linkage of the present with the past;

that commands attention while simulta-
neously complementing the architectural style of your room;

that is balanced, proportionate and in scale with your room;

that incorporates architectural elements and details that have withstood the test of time;

that utilizes the latest in materials and technology, when appropriate;

that echos the attention to detail, craftsmanship, and integrity of yester-
year;

that incorporates materials of varying textures and colors for truly dramatic effect;

that creates a visually appealing, har-
monious ensemble;

that meets the needs of contemporary lifestyles;

that provides a refreshing escape from today's fast-paced lifestyle;

that reflects your unique personality,
style, and taste . . . and

that not only enhances the glow of your roaring fire, but the glow within every
family member and friend that gathers around your hearth.

MORE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED READING RESOURCES!

Whether incorporating an antique fireplace mantel in the overall design scheme, starting from scratch with a new or reproduction mantel and surround, or doing a makeover on an existing fireplace, the foregoing design principles apply. They also apply to virtually any fireplace style . . . from traditional to contemporary . . . even cutting edge.

By  employing  these  principles  in your fireplace design, you will have a  fireplace  that  reflects  pride of ownership  and  offers  solid,  long-
lasting  value.    One  that  is both functional  and  beautiful . . .  and one  that  reflects  your artistic vi-
sion and distinctive style!

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