Where The Hearth Is
This month, we’re rounding up homes with fabulous fireplaces. Cosy up with these winter warmers, says Laura Paton
Who can resist the warming glow of a real fire? When temperatures plummet, we’re drawn to the comforting warmth, light and crackle of burning logs. But, its practical use aside, a fireplace can also provide an eye-catching focal point. From ornate traditional styles to rustic brick surrounds and modern minimalist numbers, nowadays the fireplace comes in many guises. And the heart of the home doesn’t have to be an open fire; a statement wood-burning stove can be just as atmospheric, and an old fireplace can provide the perfect backdrop for your collection of objet d’arts.
Updated period home on popular road with four bedrooms, double-aspect sitting room and modern kitchen/diner with bi-fold doors leading to garden.
HOTSPOT This working Edwardian fire (evidenced by the pile of logs neatly stacked under the shelves) is enhanced by decorative tiled panels and a striking surround.
Old meets new in this terraced three-bed flat with heritage features, including high ceilings and original fireplaces.
HOTSPOT This brooding black fireplace demands attention, and contrasted with the sleek appliances of this modern kitchen, it certainly gets it.
Extended Grade II-listed home with four bedrooms and three reception rooms, set in two-thirds of an acre and one mile from Thames-side village.
HOTSPOT Pale tones keep this room light and airy to allow the exposed beams, oak floors and a magnificent, ornately carved fireplace to take centre stage.
Newly launched three-, four- and five-bedroom detached homes offering open-plan family living in a rural location.
HOTSPOT A hefty wooden beam defines this red-brick fireplace, bringing rustic charm to an otherwise contemporary room.
Sky-high living and membership to the Fitzroy Club await the buyer of this 4,469ft, three bedroom apartment (over two floors), with full-length terraces and 24/7 concierge.
HOTSPOT Doubling as a fireplace and a room divider, this bespoke built-in fire with driftwood effect turns the master bedroom into a super-cosy retreat.
A short walk from the V&A is this Grade II-listed, four-bed house with four reception rooms, off-street parking and west-facing garden.
HOTSPOT Decorative marble and mouldings elevate the look of this traditional fireplace (one of three), and a slim profile keeps it from overpowering the room.
This one-bed flat with 29ft private garden is in a quiet location, but close to bustling North End Road.
HOTSPOT With simplicity at its core, this bedroom fireplace still manages to create drama in spadefuls, with the help of bold colours, evocative artwork and fresh flowers.
Admire rooftop views from the terraced garden of this refurbished three-bed home, complete with four reception rooms, two bathrooms, private parking and within walking distance of Hampstead tube.
HOTSPOT Cleverly contrasting dark furniture and textiles with an emerald-green surround draws the eye to the fireplace, where paintings and sketches take pride of place.
Surrounded by 25 acres, complete with outdoor pool, tennis court and equestrian facilities, this period country home boasts nine bedrooms and five reception rooms.
HOTSPOT Visitors to The Grange are met in the galleried reception hall, where a fire warms the flagstone floor and a large gilt mirror hangs above the fireplace, reflecting the stag head on the opposite wall. Velvet armchairs and fur throws soften the look.