For many people, the fireplace is one of the most treasured fixtures in the home. A fireplace is any section or fixture in the home that has been set aside for building a fire that is used for cooking, warmth and to add a homely touch to the décor theme. For as long as people have needed to eat and keep warm, fireplaces have been around to provide that comfort. In many rural communities fireplaces are still used mainly for cooking but in homes in developed areas, fireplaces are used to warm the home. Fireplaces also serve a decorative purpose. A carefully selected fireplace can give any home an elegant yet cozy feel that the family and visitors will enjoy.
Fireplaces litter the pages of spellbinding romance novels and passionate scenes in romantic movies. Fireplaces immediately turn on the romance in any setting. The soft light from the flame, the gentle heat and the sound of crackling burning create the backdrop for blissful fantasies. Hot coffee mugs, marshmallows, family, lovers and beautiful memories are the best accessories for any fireplace.
Fireplaces have evolved along with everything else in the world and modern fireplaces are very impressive in style, design and function. Modern fireplaces have embraced environmental concerns and many styles address issues like fuel efficiency and minimizing toxic emissions. They employ environmentally friendly types of fuel that are efficient and leave a shorter toxic trail. These new generation fireplaces are just as effective in providing heat, if not better, than the wood and coal variety. What is particularly impressive about these fireplaces is that the temperature can be regulated.
It is up to the homeowner to consider their personal taste, space, needs and budget for a fireplace. The options are very attractive; the comforting smells of burning wood, the mildly seductive quality of real flames and an authentic homely aura or energy-saving, fuel efficient, multifunctional combos in stylish, bold and individual designs. Whatever their fireplace preference, people must take care to maintain their fireplace and keep it clean. Electrically powered fireplaces must be switched off when not in use.