Easy, expert tips for setting a modern scene around the fireplace
By Caroline Barry
01 November 2007
Not lucky enough to have this gorgeous Conmoto fireplace? Design around what you do have. Notice the use of three objects above the fireplace and how all the straight lines are loosened up with one curvaceous chair.
The light, metal sculpture above the fire here breaks up the stone work without overdoing it. (Landry Design Group; Erhard Pfeiffer photography)
As soon as cold weather sets in, people gravitate toward fireplaces like moths to flames. So make the fireplace a modern focal point to warm the room with this season's hottest styles and newest ideas.
Fireplaces are big and anchored, requiring you to work with them and around them. By keeping in mind a few basic tenants from design guru Chris Kraig you will put a spark in and around the hearth.
Kraig is creative director of SUITE New York and founder of Chris Kraig Studio. His designs have appeared in numerous magazines and have graced the floor of many a showroom. In other words, this guy knows what works and what doesn't. Take what you will and leave what you wont, but pay attention: his little design gems are stars.
A wall of windows and a circle of chairs around a sleek wooden table finish the composition of this fireplace-warmed bookworm's haven - no other decor is needed. (Landry Design Group; Erhard Pfeiffer photography)
The rule of three works for this symmetrical design - we see a triangle formed by the two chairs flanking the fire and the art hanging above it. (Landry Design Group; Erhard Pfeiffer photography)
This cashmere and chiffon knit throw and Hans Wegner armchair prove that comfort can be clean-lined and modern, especially when done in shades of white. From SUITE NY.
Rule 1: Don't Overdo It
People stare at flames because not much competes with them. Don't fight it. Instead, use objects around the fireplace and the room to accentuate and complement the flickering flames. Kraig suggests reflective elements such as glass, crystal and metal that the light will bounce off of. He even suggests placing candles in the room, it will draw the eye away from one source of heat to another.
Rule 2: Contemporary Can Be Cozy
Modern and contemporary designs are often accused of being cold, and there's no place for that during the winter. With Kraig's advice and some spare basic pieces, you can create a contemporary room that's warm and, dare we say, "cozy."
Kraig says, "In terms of furnishings, even with a contemporary look, there can never be wrong a choice where comfort is involved. Coziness is key: if you keep your main elements such as chairs, tables and lighting on the underdesigned, rather than overdesigned side, then you are free to add as many creature comforts as you like, such as throws, books, candles. In the spring, edit out the wintery extras."
Rule 3: Three is Key
To balance art and the fireplace, use sets of three. For instance, if the fireplace is considered one element, consider a great sculptural piece or a muted piece of art for above the firebox, and a set of sculptural fire tools or organic sculpture such as an African wood piece (or a Henry Moore, if you have it!).
Kraig's Dream Room: When it comes to designing a room around a fireplace, Kraig knows exactly what he wants and how to get it...
I like an organic feeling around fireplaces. I would use two super comfortable chairs fireside, such as the Hans Wegner Wing chair, in a plush material in fabulous autumnal tones. Playing with this organic theme, I would use occasional tables like the organic forms of Dan Pollock's tree stumps either in dark wood or light depending on the desired effect.
No cozy spot is complete without a plush carpet. I like GT Design's Kama rug in viscose, which has a deep pile and a fabulous reflective quality that the light bounces off and truly enhances the experience. A good reading light is vital; my favorite these days is Azucena's Alzabile, a design from the 1940s finished in warm brass to reflect firelight.
Need an Expert Opinion on a Specific Probem in Your Home? Ask about Fireplace decor - or anything else, in PURE CONTEMPORARY's Ask the Design Experts department.
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