Do-it-yourself fireplace from scrap materials. DIY decorative fireplaces. Covering the frame and decorating the false fireplace

Fireplaces have long ceased to be bulky brick structures that are used to heat homes. Now they are increasingly used for decorative purposes, and heating occurs using electricity. All more people They live in city apartments, where it is impossible to install a real fireplace, and it is not necessary. Therefore, electrical analogues are installed or imitations are created from various materials. In the latter case, the most popular material for creating such a decorative element is plasterboard.

They make a decorative fireplace with their own hands from plasterboard for two reasons:

Protect the room from heat sources and increase their efficiency. In this case, you buy a special device that is powered from the mains and simulates a flame, but gives off heat. In this case, fireproof plasterboard is used for the fireplace.
For interior decoration using a fake fireplace without a heat source. Any gypsum boards are suitable for cladding.

Regardless of the reason, you can create a fireplace from gypsum plasterboard with your own hands, because the order of work will be the same. Creating such a design has a number of advantages:

safety. Absence open fire and the use of gypsum plasterboards reduce the risk of fire to a minimum;
homemade fireplace made of plasterboard has simple design. Although it is possible to create projects that are so complex that they can take up huge areas;
the use of gypsum plasterboard allows you to create any shape of fireplace, even the most bizarre. You can even create a structure with a chimney;
the size of the room does not matter big role, because the installation of the structure can be carried out in any place, even in a corner;
cladding can be carried out using any materials.

Types of false fireplaces

All fall fireplaces can be divided into three categories: authentic, conventional and symbolic. Once you understand which option interests you, you can begin to implement it.

A decorative chimney adds more authenticity to the entire structure

Authentic fireplaces are made to be exact replicas of the original designs.. If this option is used outside the apartment, then you will never think that this is an imitation. Characteristic feature such designs is the use of furnaces where combustion is carried out various types fuel. The imitation comes out so good that it has the appropriate dimensions and design principles. Such a fireplace made of plasterboard in the interior can look very massive, and it is rational to install it in a cottage where there are large rooms.

Having the dimensions of the future structure, you can calculate how many profiles, fasteners and gypsum boards will be required. Let us remind you once again that heat-resistant plasterboard is needed for a fireplace only if there is a heating element inside the structure being created. Otherwise, finishing material is suitable metal frame.

To make it easier to work, you need to make a drawing of a plasterboard fireplace with dimensions. After this, the dimensions can be transferred to the wall so that you can see exactly where to mount the frame. At this stage, you will need a level (ideally a laser) so that the finished structure does not turn out to be skewed. By the way, the work will require the following tools and fasteners:

level to create a level structure;
metal guide profile for creating a frame;
metal scissors for cutting profiles;
tape measure for performing various measurements;
electric drill and dowels for attaching the frame to the wall;
plasterboard for covering the frame;
knife for cutting plasterboard to specified sizes;
a screwdriver and self-tapping screws for attaching frame elements to each other and drywall to the profile.

Additionally, you will need materials for finishing (trowel, putty, tape for seams and facing material). At the very end, we will consider the question of how to decorate a plasterboard fireplace.

Assembly and fastening of the frame

There should be markings on the wall and floor to make it clear where the do-it-yourself plasterboard fireplace frame will be installed. To assemble it, rack or guide profiles can be used. You can assemble the frame separately and then attach it to the wall, but it is better not to resort to this method. You can miss the markings, and attaching the entire bulky structure is inconvenient. It's better to do everything sequentially. You need to make fireplaces with your own hands from plasterboard step by step, and not try to combine several stages into one or skip them.

It is advisable to provide a stand in the frame

First of all, the guides are attached to the wall and to the floor. To do this, you need to mark the places where they will be fixed, after which holes are drilled with a drill, and the profiles are attached to the wall and to the floor with dowels. It is not necessary to cut the profile into many pieces, because it can be trimmed with scissors and then simply bent at a right angle. This way the guide on the floor and wall will be the same and you won't have to worry about making sure everything is aligned.

Vertical guides are checked with a plumb line so that they are fixed level. Ideally use a laser level.

Racks are inserted into the guide profiles on the floor and secured with metal screws. These posts go from the bottom profiles to the top, where they will be secured into guides that are mounted parallel to the profile on the floor. You should get some kind of parallelepiped if you assemble the simplest structure. This will be the main frame, in which you will also need to make a place to insert the heating device. A drawing of a false fireplace made of plasterboard will help with this.

Frame option without fixing to the floor

The jumpers between the racks are installed at the height at which the electric fireplace will be installed. One of the guide profiles at this height is attached to the wall. It turns out a quadrangle, which will be the bottom of the niche. For greater reliability, you can add a few more jumpers inside this rectangle (relevant for heavy heating devices). All other frame elements are assembled in a similar way. For example, you can create a fireplace box from plasterboard that will imitate a chimney.

Plasterboard cladding

Can be installed on top of the fireplace wooden table top for decoration

GCR must be cut so that it can be used for sheathing assembled frame. It’s not difficult to figure out how to cover a structure with plasterboard. Just take plasterboard sheets and secure them with self-tapping screws. Cladding a fireplace with plasterboard with your own hands begins with a niche for the electric fireplace, into which it is then inserted. If mistakes were made, then part of the structure may have to be reassembled. If the fireplace goes well, then take it out and continue working.

Main characteristics of wall (GKL) and fire-resistant (GKLO) plasterboard
Name	Size in mm.	Sheet area in sq.m.	Sheet weight in kg.	Color
GKL	1200x2000x12.5	2,4	23	Grey
	1200x2500x12.5	3	29
	1200x3000x12.5	3,6	35
GKL	1200x2000x12.5	2,4	26	Pink
	1200x2500x12.5	3	31
	1200x3000x12.5	3,6	37

After covering internal space constructions need to move to the external. We fasten everything with small self-tapping screws in 15 cm increments. The procedure is quite standard and common. Do not forget that the caps of the screws must be flush (not protrude or be pressed in too much). Now you know how to make a false fireplace from plasterboard, but that's not all.

You can provide special double walls for the combustion hole (if it will be used for its intended purpose). Non-combustible insulation is laid between these walls, for more efficient heating rooms.

Features of corner fireplaces

I would like to dwell on the option of installing a fireplace in a corner. This method has both advantages and disadvantages. Let's talk about the advantages:

You can save space since the space required in the corner is smaller.
The space in the corner of the room is used, and usually the corners are empty.
Less material consumption and lower cost of the entire structure.
It looks original and stylish.

Unfortunately, a do-it-yourself corner false fireplace made from plasterboard will also have disadvantages. There is not always a free corner large enough to avoid a window with a radiator. Even if the window is far away, there are curtains that will interfere. Therefore, it will always be impossible to use two corners in a room.

An imitation chimney will not steal space and will look stylish

The remaining two corners are usually formed by the part of the wall where the doors are located. For some people, if a do-it-yourself corner decorative fireplace made from plasterboard is located in such a place, then this is unacceptable from the point of view of room design.

Step-by-step instruction

For the most part, creating corner false fireplaces from gypsum plasterboard is not much different from the procedure described above for frontal structures. The main difference is in the shape of the frame.

Do-it-yourself corner fireplace made of plasterboard - step-by-step instructions:

Calculation of sizes. Everything needs to be taken into account. For example, a heating pipe running along the corner of a wall that needs to be hidden. It may interfere with the assembly of a solid frame. If the battery is hidden, then you should definitely provide a design feature that will make it easy to get to it if necessary. When is it going corner fireplace made of plasterboard, the dimensions of all elements must be carefully thought out.
We mount the frame. For this, the cheapest profile or the one that is most convenient to work with will do. Special requirements no to the guides.
We provide electrical wiring. These could be sockets or wiring to illuminate the finished structure. Especially additional lighting relevant if work is carried out with a large frame.
The frame is covered with sheets of plasterboard.
Finishing is carried out.

Here's how to make your own fireplace out of plasterboard. You just need to follow the sequence of work in the instructions.

Finishing - the last stage

The fireplace should fit harmoniously into the interior of the room where it is installed. That's why it's so important to choose the right finishing coat. The most popular materials for such work are decorative brick, ceramic tiles and artificial stone. However, ordinary paint is often used for these purposes.

With the right finishing no one will guess about using drywall

Before painting a plasterboard fireplace, it is puttied, making all surfaces smooth. Then everything is painted twice water-based paint using a brush. For other types of finishing, you will have to use plaster compounds so that nothing falls off. All this significantly increases the weight of the structure. So you need to know in advance whether the drywall will be covered with ceramic tiles (stone) or not.

It’s not as difficult to make a fireplace in an apartment with your own hands from plasterboard as it might seem. The main thing is to carry out calculations correctly and use a level, do not forget about jumpers and finishing.

If you want to create additional coziness in your home, there is one solution that will help save both money and time, and at the same time create a very homely, cozy and comfortable atmosphere. And this solution is a fireplace made by yourself. It will look great in any home and will decorate any interior. The fashion for fireplaces will never go away, especially for fireplaces self made. Their relevance is only growing every year.

Kinds

Before you start creating artificial fireplace with your own hands, you need to find out what kind of fireplaces there are.

The very first question that arises for someone who wants to make a fireplace is the design. What is it like? Which one should you choose to build your fireplace? So, there are three types in total: bio-fireplace, imitation fireplace and electric fireplace (backlight).

Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Biofireplace

The function of the combustion process in a biofireplace is performed by the burner. It runs on biofuel. This is an excellent option for simulating fire, but very expensive.

Imitation fireplace

In fact, in in this case, it is much easier and more convenient to solve this issue yourself using improvised means and without much of a hit to your wallet. What materials can be used here? Of course, this is plasterboard, a frame from old furniture, wood or even an ordinary box.

Electric fireplace

As for the electric fireplace, it shows a visualization of the fire, as well as the sound of the burning flame, on a special screen.

Made of brick

The construction of an artificial fireplace made of brick is very different from the construction of a real fireplace, where the lining is made only of fire-resistant bricks High Quality. To make a fireplace, you can use both facing and decorative bricks. There is no fundamental difference here.

In the end, all you need to do is make a mantelpiece.

It is important to pay attention to such a nuance that the finished structure will weigh a lot and it is necessary to initially evaluate how reliable the ceilings made are, and, based on this, make a decision about continuing the planned installation work.

Made from wood

For lovers of vintage furniture, as well as those who prefer furniture made from environmentally friendly pure materials, we recommend using wood to create a fireplace. Both edged and unedged board, as well as parquet. Once finished, you can coat it with varnish to give it a more attractive look. A wood fireplace made by yourself should not be placed on the floor, but on a platform previously made for this purpose.

A fireplace made of this material has many advantages. One of them is the low weight of this design, which allows it to be made of any size and installed in any convenient and suitable place in the apartment.

From furniture panels

Such a fireplace can be made either from ordinary plywood or from ready-made furniture panels, which must be purchased at a specialized store. Making such a fireplace yourself will not be difficult. At the same time, the fireplace can be made of absolutely any size by first painting (if desired) the panels in any color you like or gluing special colored wallpaper on them.

Thus, you can make a modern and colorful fireplace with your own hands without any effort. special effort and without large investments Money.

Step-by-step instruction

The scheme for creating a fireplace from boards, plywood, wood and furniture panels is the same.

What needs to be done first is to assemble the frame. A galvanized profile is best suited for this purpose.

It is very important to first draw up a plan or drawing of the fireplace that you plan to assemble, indicating, at least approximately, the main dimensions. After this, cut the profile using special scissors.

It is important to do everything in accordance with the dimensions and width of the parts so that there are no inconsistencies during the manufacturing process. On next stage Check all the sheathing boards again. If necessary, all edges need to be trimmed. Using self-tapping screws, attach the sheathing to the frame. Carefully screw in the screws, the caps should be invisible.

The next step is to put the plugs on the fasteners, preferably decorative ones. You can also paint it in a bright color or varnish the surface. And on final stage you need to install a shelf on which you can then put various souvenirs and interior decorations.

Metal

A homemade fireplace made of metal will look prestigious and very modern in the interior. But working with this type of material is quite complicated and is suitable only for those who have already encountered this and have experience and skill in working with metal parts and designs.

Details may be different sizes and shapes, depending on your tastes. A homemade fireplace made from this material will fit perfectly into modern interior, especially if it is dominated by silver, brown and light gray tones.

Step by step creation

As was written above, not everyone can afford an artificial fireplace made of metal structures. Making it is quite difficult, so all stages of its production must be treated with increased care and responsibility.

So, the steps are described below.

Preparation

Just like in the previous case, making a fireplace should start with a small detailed plan or diagrams indicating all sizes and dimensions. And you need to think through all the smallest nuances already at this stage.

Marking

Once the plan is drawn up, you can begin marking. Marks should be made on the wall in the places where the fasteners will be placed. This work should be given Special attention and approach it with full responsibility.

Assembly

After this, we begin assembling the entire structure. The support in this case is a frame made of aluminum profile. It needs to be cut and then attached to where the marks were previously applied.

Installation

At the penultimate, final stage, place an artificial hearth in the finished structure. If the fireplace is not only an interior decoration, but also a source of heat, do not forget to attach a layer of heat-insulating material to the inner wall metal structure the side on which it is attached.

From plasterboard

Even a beginner can build a fireplace made of plasterboard. It's the easiest to create. Although this type of material has its own characteristics. Difficulty may arise only at the stage of creating a metal frame, but we can solve this issue too.

Manufacturing instructions

First of all, of course, you need to make a frame. You can use both metal profiles and wooden sticks. Then assemble a box without a back wall from the profiles. Use a knife to cut drywall and glue the pieces together with glue.

Prepare the base in accordance with all dimensions and place it against the wall. It will be better and more stable if the box is attached to the floor, thus creating a reliable foundation. We glue the assembled future fireplace to the prepared box. We install the mantel on top of the structure.

Glue the baseboard under the mantel. This must be done in stages. To make the transition smooth and beautiful, steps of different widths are used.

Now we install a homemade hearth.

To complete the creation of a beautiful homemade fireplace, we finish it using previously selected materials.

From stone

In any apartment and any house, a fireplace made of stone looks truly luxurious and expensive. Such decoration of the house speaks of the exceptional taste of its owner.

Step-by-step production

It is quite possible to make a stone fireplace with your own hands. It is convenient to attach a material such as stone to various surfaces, be it brick, drywall or any other material. But here it is important not to forget that the stone has enough heavy weight, and take this into account when planning the creation of such a heavy structure.

First of all, you need to prepare the stone for further work with it, namely, clean the surface. In the event that the fireplace is attached to stone wall, you need to make small indentations using some sharp tool.

A warm fireplace with crackling wood inside is an interior element from films and books, which you can see in real life almost unreal. However, modern craftsmen were able to come up with a worthy alternative, which in appearance is in no way inferior to the original - this is a false fireplace. To create it, you don’t have to have any special skills, you just need to put in a little imagination and effort. We’ll talk about how to make a false fireplace with your own hands in this article.

Types of decorative fireplaces

A false fireplace plays a leading role in the interior, but it is important that it blends beautifully with the entire decor of the room, organically fitting into the design. Therefore, before you make a false fireplace with your own hands, you need to decide on the style of the future design device.

Classic. The most classic type is the square or rectangular hearth. It is often decorated with stucco, bas-reliefs, and artificial stones that look like jewelry. This type of fireplace is best finished with tiles that imitate marble or brick.

Country style. It is characterized by rough materials. The imitation is performed as simply as possible, and any flower-leaves are not appropriate in this case.

Modern. You can use any glossy surfaces with reflective effect. And for a high-tech style, a designer product with sharp corners and mirror details will fit perfectly.

Artificial plasterboard fireplace

Many people think that it is difficult to make a false fireplace from plasterboard yourself. You will see that this is not the case by studying the proposed master class with detailed description process.

The process of making a fireplace from plasterboard

This material can be purchased at any building materials store, and its price is reasonable. To do decorative false fireplace, you need:

plasterboard sheets;
metallic profile;
self-tapping screws (for metal) and a screwdriver;
level;
roulette
dowels;
facing materials (optional).

Here are step-by-step instructions for installing an artificial false fireplace:

On an ordinary sheet of A3 paper or Whatman paper, draw a sketch of the future fireplace in a reduced size. To simplify the drawings, you can find them on the Internet and download the version you like. For beginners, we advise you to start by focusing on simple forms, without aiming at complex models. Then find a suitable wall in the house and transfer the markings to it, observing the scale. Mark the places on the wall where the hearth frame will subsequently be located. A corner false fireplace will first have to be completely assembled and then mounted on the wall, but in other situations you can start assembling the frame base directly on the wall.
Cut strips of metal profiles based on the marks on the wall. You can assemble the back wall by attaching the profiles to one another with self-tapping screws. The resulting frame is attached to the wall surface strictly according to the marks using dowels (if the wall is plastered).
Gradually assemble the frame completely, be sure to check the drawing, otherwise you will easily get confused and the product will turn out uneven. For greater stability of the fireplace on the side and rear walls, attach transverse jumpers from the same profile to the main frame every 30 cm. If you decide to equip the product with an arch, then do not forget to make cuts in the sides of the profile and bend it a little, giving it a rounded shape.
Now it's time for drywall. To cut it, you can use a stationery knife, a jigsaw or a hacksaw, but in the absence of them, a durable one will do. sharp knife. Accurately measure each area of the frame where the part will later be attached, and transfer the measurements to the drywall.
Cut out the parts and screw them to the base with 25 mm self-tapping screws. At this stage, the base of the decorative hearth is ready.

How to cover a plasterboard hearth

The decoration of false fireplaces is quite simple.

It can be decorated with paint or decorative tiles. Depending on the type of cladding chosen, the preparation of the plasterboard frame will be different.
Before painting the frame, you need to screw the screws in harder so that their heads do not stick out. Also remember that the base is first primed, then puttied, and then painted.

When preparing the base for the tiles, you must pay attention to what is written on the adhesive packaging. You should not try to rub the seams right away; start this process only a day after finishing the work, so that the glue has time to set and dry.
In addition, you may need a shelf. You can buy a regular wooden plank or stair step at any hardware store. Original plaster stucco molding is also purchased there; the cost of 2 half-columns + 2 half-bases is approximately 2,000 rubles.

Decorating a plasterboard product

A plasterboard fireplace is quite durable, so you can give it a more natural look using conventional building materials.

Suitable for the firebox:

tile;
artificial brick;
mirror panels.

The upper part can also be decorated, as well as install a decorative shelf that can easily withstand the load of a couple of books of candles or figurines.

An ornate or lattice metal fence is perfect for this interior element.

Decorative hearth made of cardboard

Cardboard is simple and available material, which is useful for making a cozy hearth. The most budget-friendly is a false fireplace made from boxes, but it can be made from cardboard of any origin. It is important that the density of the material is high. In our case, we will make an artificial fireplace with our own hands from a large box from household appliances. Then it will be more stable.

Remember that such cheap materials will allow you to create an elegant fireplace in the living room on New Year, thereby organizing a beautiful photo zone for the whole family. For creativity you will need:

spacious cardboard box;
sharp knife;
ruler;
simple pencil;
scissors;
construction tape;
double-sided construction adhesive tape;
large stapler;
wallpaper with brick print for decoration.

Step-by-step process instructions:

Choose the sketch of the product you like and transfer it to the box.
The excess parts from the box should be cut off, the sides of the development should be secured together with a stapler, and all the joints of the sides should be taped with construction tape.
Using a knife, you should cut out the outline of the firebox, and also glue its edges with tape.
The prepared base can already be mounted on the wall. Do this using double-sided adhesive tape.
Cut the wallpaper and cover the fireplace with it. If you don't want to be fooled, buy a self-adhesive sticker with a brick pattern. However, remember that the wallpaper will look more natural.
To decorate the top, cut out a shelf from the same cardboard, or purchase a beautiful piece made of foam plastic.

How to imitate a flame

It is not so difficult to make a fireplace inexpensively and in an original way; it is much more difficult to achieve an imitation of a warm and cozy flame inside it.

The best option is to buy a special electrical appliance, which is inserted inside. The issue price is about 11,000 - 15,000 rubles. The built-in device produces an image of burning wood and a corresponding light cracking sound.

You can also repeat Pinocchio's trick with a photo. That is, just stick it on the base beautiful photo burning firebrands. It is better to focus on a small picture, placing it on the back of the firebox.

How option - decoration fake product with light bulbs or New Year's garlands. To enhance the effect, wrap real firewood in a string of yellow LED lights that don't get hot.

For the plasterboard option, a mirrored firebox with ordinary candles placed there is acceptable. The flames will reflect beautifully from the mirrors, creating a reflection effect.
Another interesting move - place a regular firebox in the niche table lamp, and cover the opening with translucent yellow or orange film. However, in this case, think about where it is better to hide the wire so that you can turn the lamp off and on as needed.

Important! Remember about fire safety, do not leave candles unattended, install limiters if there are small children or animals in the house.

Interesting solutions for decorating a fireplace

A decorative hearth, first of all, is designed to please the eye, so it is not at all necessary to equip it with logs and place a poker next to it. Modern designers offer many interesting ideas on decoration.

A classic of the genre - a clock on the mantelpiece. Why deviate from tradition? In the case where the room has an imitation of a hearth, decorators suggest placing the clock in a niche or in the firebox. In addition, it would not hurt to place figurines or books on the shelf.

Natural flowers are usually not placed near a real “home fire pit”, as they will be hot, but it is quite possible to decorate a decorative analogue with indoor flowers and spruce branches.

For gourmets, use a niche as a bottle bar.

As you noticed, making original designer fireplaces does not require a lot of time and money. Which options would you prefer? Share your opinion in the comments.

Video: DIY decorative fireplace made from cardboard boxes

One of the stylish components of the interior, a family hearth, a source of warmth and comfort. Unfortunately, not every family can afford to install such a luxury at home. To place a structure in an apartment, you need a special permit, and you will also need a lot of money. In this situation, a low-budget option that does not require additional approvals will help out - an artificial hearth (false fireplace). You can make a decorative device with your own hands, saving time and money.

Artificial fireplaces: 22 photos in the interior

DIY process

Creating a pseudo-fireplace yourself is not that difficult. You can watch a video with a master class from specialists, outline step-by-step instructions, and begin preparatory work. First of all, you need to make a drawing or sketch basics (portal), determine the size, location (living room, bedroom, etc.), as well as the style of the future design of the finished object. In addition, it is necessary to determine what material the imitation hearth will be sheathed with. For cladding and partitions, plasterboard, fiberboard, chipboard, plywood, cardboard, wood, polystyrene foam, polyurethane, and brick are most often chosen. Plastic, glass, and metal are used much less frequently. Beautiful view The fireplace is given a finishing touch. You can design the structure using ceramic tiles, natural and artificial stone, laminate, etc.

Let's look at a step-by-step example of how to make an artificial corner fireplace from plasterboard yourself.

Tools and materials

Installation takes place in 2 stages: assembly of equipment, installation followed by finishing according to modern design. At each stage you will need available tools.

A homemade frame is made from different materials. Most often a metal profile is used, but sometimes wood is preferred. The choice depends on the devices that will be placed in the fireplace. The use of electrical appliances, biofuel burners and other fire hazardous elements excludes the use wooden structures. The frame is sheathed plasterboard sheets with non-flammable properties.

To do the work yourself you will need:

metal profile;
plasterboard sheets;
metal corners;
metal scissors, screwdriver;
building level, plumb line;
self-tapping screws, screws, other connecting consumables;
putty, spatula;
materials for installing the outlet (if electrical appliances are planned in the design).

May be needed Additional materials for finishing (for example, tiles, tile grout, decorative grille, LED strip, etc.).

Read also: Imitation of a fireplace in an apartment

Creating your own fireplace

First of all, we determine the dimensions of the corner fireplace. Thanks to lightweight materials in the overall design, the parameters can be any, but should not exceed 1/25 of the area of the room. For example, in a living room of 20 m2, a fireplace with sides adjacent to the walls of no more than 1.2 m will look organic. The total area of the structure should not exceed 0.8 m2. The design can be improved by giving it functionality in the form of additional shelves on both sides.

The selected parameters are applied to the fireplace diagram. A general drawing is created with all measurements and calculations made. Then you can proceed directly to installation:

Assemble a frame from a metal profile using self-tapping screws, as well as a level and plumb line for checking correct location designs.
Carry out electrical wiring. For illumination, you can use LED strip.
Make a combustion chamber with double walls, between which lay non-combustible insulation.
Cover the frame with plasterboard. Pin corner connections metal corners.
Putty the structure, clean up any rough spots.
Apply a non-flammable coating to the internal surface of the structure.

Making artificial fire

In addition to the LED strip, fire imitation can be:

digital photo frame;
candles;
canvas or wallpaper with the image of fire;
bio-fireplace (eco-fireplace);
electric fireplace

When making a fireplace with candles, you don’t have to deepen it too much. Multi-level candles with real fire will add coziness to the structure. Maintenance of such a fireplace will be inexpensive.

Biofireplaces run on safe fuel - bioethanol. Them no chimney required. But it is important to consider that such devices have a high price.

Decorating an artificial fireplace

So, the design is ready, the last creative stage remains - decorative finishing. The finished structure must be finished with a material that will be compatible in all respects with the selected fire source.

You can decorate the building in different ways:

film with an image of stone or brick;
ceramic finishing tiles with plaster stucco;
artificial or natural stone.

A fireplace with burning and crackling wood is often found in a movie or book, but very rarely in everyday life, as it is considered a luxury item. Indeed, a real fireplace is not a cheap pleasure, and besides, it is extremely difficult to build one in a city apartment. But there is an alternative option, namely a decorative fireplace. It will cost much less, is easy to use, absolutely safe, and most importantly, it can be made by yourself.

Peculiarities

A false fireplace is a design that imitates a real hearth. Usually it is installed when, for some reason, it is not possible to build a real wood-burning hearth, for example, a city apartment (in urban conditions it is difficult to obtain permission to build a fireplace; houses do not have a chimney box) or limited space in the room.

Advantages of a false fireplace:

Low cost. You will only have to spend money on purchasing building materials.
Availability of materials. You can find them in literally any hardware store.
The design of such a fireplace can be changed at your discretion as many times as you like.
To decorate a fireplace, you don’t need to purchase expensive materials; you can get by with quite budget-friendly but presentable options.

There are essentially no disadvantages to a false fireplace. In fact, it is a decorative element and sometimes serves to heat the room. It's not difficult to make. You can develop your own project and draw a drawing, or use ready-made circuit. A decorative fireplace is absolutely safe; it can be of different sizes and fit into even the smallest room.

Kinds

The very first thing you need to do when creating an artificial fireplace is to decide on the type of design.

Decorative fireplaces are divided into three groups:

Reliable. These fireplaces can completely imitate real ones. They are similar to the real one in size and design. The firebox usually contains a bio-fireplace burner, which very accurately recreates the combustion effect and heats the room. This option is quite expensive, but of all it is the most plausible.
Conditional. Bounded by a protruding fireplace portal. The portal is decorated to your liking, and various decorative elements, such as candles or logs, are installed in the firebox.
Symbolic. The most dissimilar, they are created even from simple stickers with the image of fire or a design, with additional decor. In other words, only the shape of the fireplace is preserved without the recess under the firebox.

There are several types of fire simulation:

Imitation. It only conditionally resembles the real one. The role of the flame is played by candles placed inside or paintings depicting flames.
Electric. In this case, the imitation is performed by a special electrical device, which is framed by a niche. This option is very realistic, since the video illusion of a burning flame is displayed on the screen, and the room is also heated.
Biofireplace. The hearth is as close as possible to a real fireplace and, with appropriate design, completely copies it. The fire in it burns due to a special burner, the operation of which is supported by a substance such as bioethanol. The disadvantage of the design is its high cost.

Each type differs in cost and complexity of construction. Of course, the most cheap option- This is an imitation one that you can design with your own hands, without purchasing additional expensive equipment and materials. But they suffer greatly decorative effect and visually they are somewhat cartoonish. Conventional and authentic fireplaces are most often constructed from plasterboard, and candles, various lamps, LED strips or an electric fireplace are placed inside.

Style and design

The design of a false fireplace completely depends on the style of the room in which it is placed. For example, for classic style Square fireplaces decorated with stucco or bas-relief are appropriate. Imitation tile finishes, brick or marble tiles also look great.

Modernism is more suitable for materials with a mirror or reflective surface. In high-tech, a large role is played by the non-standard form of the structure, for example, an acute-angled fireplace trimmed with mirrors. Simple and natural style country, respectively, and the false fireplace should be simple and even somewhat rude. In this case, unnecessary decorative elements are not needed.

Imitating a flame in an artificial hearth can create a homely feel in a room. cozy atmosphere. Today, you can purchase a special one for this purpose. electronic device, which is capable of visualizing a picture of a burning flame, as well as reproducing characteristic crackling sounds. The simplest way to recreate a fire is to put a sticker on the back wall of the fireplace with a decorative design of burning logs. Also, modern technologies make it possible to use the so-called electronic photo frame. A “live” image is simply loaded into it.

However, it is not forbidden to approach this task creatively and decorate the fireplace. For example, install an ordinary mirror on the back wall of the fireplace, and place several candles and logs in front of it. However, this option is only suitable for drywall.

One more interesting solution There will be a medium-sized lamp placed inside. But you will need to come up with a way to disguise the wire from the lamp so that you can turn it on or off unnoticed if necessary. The niche is covered with a film, which can be translucent, yellow or orange. By the way, backlighting the film with the last two colors will create the effect of a “warm glow” that usually comes from a real fire. Instead of a lamp, you can install several small light bulbs inside or New Year's garland, without covering the niche with film.

Very often, next to a real fireplace there is a clock hanging above the hearth or simply standing on a shelf. Therefore, designers offer the same move with a decorative hearth, placing the clock inside the fireplace, for example, in the firebox or niche. Such a decision will definitely attract attention.

The shelves that are installed in the firebox will look non-standard and interesting., while maintaining their functionality. Small souvenirs, candles and other cute things are placed on them. They will not only decorate the room and structure, but also create a pleasant homely atmosphere. Books are placed on the same shelves, especially with bright and colorful covers. A painting or photograph will fit perfectly into the niche. For example, you can hang several small frames around the fireplace, and one large frame in a niche, which will be the central element of the entire composition.

You cannot place live plants close to a real fire, but you can near a fake one. Place fresh flowers in pots near it or inside and miniature plants. Also, a false fireplace can serve as an excellent pedestal for some collection or a kind of bar, and coasters for glasses are placed on the top shelf.

Also popular when decorating decorative plaster. First, the surface is puttied, all joints between elements and all irregularities are sealed. Afterwards the putty is cleaned sandpaper and plastering.

In fact, you can decorate false fireplaces with anything. It all depends on the imagination, interior style and practical skills of the owner or the worker who will design the fireplace.

Necessary tools and components

The second stage in the work will be measuring and purchasing the necessary building materials.

For plasterboard construction you will need:

profiles – rack and guide;
moisture-resistant plasterboard sheets;
elements for fastening (dowels, screws, etc.);
finishing material (primer or putty, tile adhesive and grout) depending on the choice of cladding;
tools: electric drill, screwdriver, metal scissors, knife, tape measure, level.

For polyurethane construction:

fireplace portal made of polyurethane;
contact adhesive composition;
putty;
finishing material.

For wooden structure:

plywood sheets;
wood sanding machine;
electric jigsaw;
screwdriver;
finishing material.

How to do it yourself?

An artificial fireplace is most often made of plasterboard. This material is inexpensive and can be purchased at any building materials store. You will need screws, self-tapping screws (they must have a countersunk head for fixing the sheets) for metal, dowels, nails and facing material.

Step-by-step instructions for making a decorative fireplace from plasterboard:

The basis of the basics is a sketch of the future design. It is important to determine exactly where the fireplace will be located and its approximate parameters. After this, based on the sketch, the exact dimensions and amount of material required are calculated.

It is important to know that the corner fireplace is first assembled and only then installed. If the structure is located near the wall, then the frame can be assembled directly on the wall.

Making a frame against the wall. The places where the profiles will be attached are marked on the wall. They will serve as the base for the back fireplace wall. Basically, profiles are secured with dowels, which are designed for dense solid materials.
We fasten the guide profile along the marked lines. If the wall is concrete, then the holes for the dowels must be drilled with a drill and then the profiles must be installed.
We install the rack profiles in the guides and fix them with self-tapping screws. To increase the safety margin, we connect horizontal and vertical rack profiles with additional stiffeners.

Following the drawing, we make a frame, first for the entire structure, and then for the portal with the firebox. In order for the structure to be strong, we make jumpers at intervals of 30 cm. They are needed to take on the main load from objects located above. In other words, they will allow you to place them on the fireplace various element decoration without harm to the structure.
If an arch is to be formed in the future, then it is necessary to cut the profile along the side and then give it the appropriate shape.

Once the frame is ready, it can be sheathed with plasterboard using 25 mm self-tapping screws. chop it up better with a hacksaw or a jigsaw, but an ordinary knife can cope with this task.
We fix the covering fragments with self-tapping screws with a fastening step of 10-15 cm.

So, the fireplace is ready and now you can finish it.

You can decorate drywall with literally anything, from ordinary painting to gluing tiles. The choice of cladding method depends entirely on the style in which the structure will be made. In addition, drywall is a universal material, which allows for complete improvisation.

When painting, screw caps must be tightened as much as possible. so that they do not protrude above the surface. The working surface itself is primed, puttied, and only after all the preparatory work begins painting.

When gluing tiles, work and prepare the surface in accordance with the instructions indicated on the packaging adhesive composition. It is important not to forget that grouting can only be done 24 hours after laying the tiles. During this time, the composition should dry and firmly fix the tile.

Production of a false fireplace from a cardboard box:

Cardboard is the best choice for creating such a structure. To make it more stable and correct form, use a large box of household appliances.
Required Tools: pencil, scissors, stapler and construction tape.
As in the previous instructions, we make an initial sketch of the entire structure. Then we transfer the drawing to the box.
We cut off all excess and secure the base with a stapler, sealing the joints with tape.
Using a sharp stationery knife, we cut out the firebox at the base: we cut the top and side walls, then we bend the cardboard inward. You should have a shelf that needs to be secured with tape.

We attach the finished frame to the wall with double-sided adhesive tape.
The cardboard can be covered with wallpaper with a brick or other pattern, or self-adhesive film can be applied. However, many argue that wallpaper looks more natural.
We decorate the upper part with a cardboard shelf or decorative foam.

To make the work go more smoothly and everything to be clearly visible, it is recommended to watch one of the many videos with a master class, which shows and talks about all the working moments and nuances.

Materials

You can choose any material for the fireplace: stone, wood, brick, and so on. However, it is always worth considering the complexity of its processing and installation, especially if the structure will be located in a city apartment, where it may be too bulky. More convenient in this regard is plasterboard, which is easy to work with and is a universal material.

If you have construction skills, the fireplace is made of decorative bricks. This material provides maximum resemblance to a real hearth. However, in a city apartment it should be compact so as not to take up too much space. You also need to know for sure whether the ceiling can support the load from the finished structure, especially if the fireplace is supposed to be large-sized. Sometimes they simply lay out a frame for the fireplace - the so-called fireplace portal.

You can make a wooden fireplace with your own hands. But if you don’t have the skills to handle wood, then it’s better to refuse this option or hire professionals. If there is an old unnecessary chest of drawers in the house, then it can be made the basis for the fireplace, to which the necessary elements are subsequently attached.

Plates with a laminated coating (chipboard) and similar materials are ideally suited for assembling a false fireplace. In this case, it is important to accurately outline future design and only then transfer the data to the stove. If everything is done correctly, the design will turn out neat, and most importantly, very attractive. A more budget-friendly analogue of laminated boards is chipboard or MDF.

Typically polyurethane is used to create decorative elements and decorations. But if you really want to, various moldings, half-columns and platbands can be glued to the wall. However similar design still will not be perceived as a full-fledged fireplace, but it is perfect for an interesting play on portals.

Most often, drywall is chosen for work. This material is characterized by ease of use and allows you to implement designs of any complexity. With all of it undeniable advantages the material is inexpensive and easily accessible to a wide range of consumers.

Dimensions

The dimensions of the false fireplace depend entirely on the room and are selected individually in each case. If the room is small and you need to save space, then the fireplace can be made small, wall-mounted, or better yet, corner-mounted. In this case, the depth should be approximately 330 cm and the length should be 1.3 m. A small room is considered to be an area of 16 to 20 m2.

For an average area - from 20 to 30 m2, more than massive structures , the size of which does not have such strict requirements. It is allowed to install shelves, table tops and floors. The portal can be designed artificially or natural stone, forged elements and wood. Approximate parameters: bottom – 1.5 m, top – 1.49 m, depth – 345 cm.

For large rooms– more than 30 m2, you can implement any design idea. If allowed cash, the portal can be constructed from materials such as marble, solid wood and metal. Approximate parameters: width – 2 m, height – 1.285 m, depth – 90 cm. You can easily place a large gas or electric appliance in it.

Colors

Color solution The false fireplace should come from the style in which the room is made and from the overall color scheme. In general, the entire color spectrum can be divided into shades: warm (red, orange, yellow and green), cool (blue, purple, cyan) and neutral (white, gray, black).

If the interior is dominated by white or beige colors, then the fireplace finish can be white, red, sand, black, yellow or pink. Visually bright hues They make the space wider and lighter, so the hearth should either blend harmoniously with everything or have a contrasting bright color. For cold room the same option applies.

For a simple room with a predominance of dark and black colors, a fireplace in white, green, black, yellow, orange and red is most suitable. However, it is worth remembering that dark shades negatively affect the emotional state, so you should not get carried away with them.

Neutral interior gray color, gray, yellow, green, white, red, blue, beige and brown will perfectly complement the fireplace.

Bright, rich colors combine harmoniously with red, yellow, orange, white, gray and black hearth. Bright colors stimulate brain activity and improve mood. Colors such as milk, chocolate, pistachio, purple and blue are also very attractive.

Successful examples and options

A fireplace installed in the central part of one of the walls of the living room can ensure symmetry of the entire layout. The decorative hearth will become a kind of central point around which pieces of furniture are placed. The area above the portal is decorated with lamps or books, a painting or panel with candlesticks, and a TV or large mirror is mounted.

You can fill the space in the fireplace with all the options presented above. From the firebox you can create bookshelf, pedestal for various minerals, souvenirs and so on. The solution will look impressive: an iron grate with natural logs, which are placed both inside and simply placed next to the hearth.

The fireplace fits perfectly into the design of the bedroom and creates a relaxing atmosphere, which makes it easier to go to bed. The most important thing is that it is absolutely safe, and owners do not have to worry about their health. Modern electric fireplaces are capable of switching off on their own after a certain period of time or simply maintaining the set temperature in the room.

When decorating the fireplace in the bedroom, you should not make it too rough and overly bright. It should be done in calm colors. It is better to make the decor elegant, for example, candles, small souvenirs, fresh flowers and the like. Reflective elements, decorative plaster or tiles are also attractive.

False fireplace is the only and absolutely safe way inclusion of a similar design in the children's interior. In addition, it can be adjusted for children's games, the portal can be covered with a special magnetic film, which is suitable for drawing and attaching magnetic parts. Books, toys and other children's accessories are stored in the firebox. The design of the fireplace is made bright and colorful, which will appeal to little fidgets.