Examples for the manufacture of false fireplaces. How to make a decorative fireplace with imitation fire

A fireplace can make even the dullest interior of a room much cozier and more comfortable. But such a pleasure is quite expensive, and it is not always possible to install something similar in an apartment. But there is a way out. You can make a fake fireplace with your own hands of absolutely any shape and size, and it is so simple that the process itself does not take much time and does not require special skills.

Can a fireplace be artificial

A false fireplace is a structure that looks like a real fireplace, but without a chimney. In some cases, this is just an element of the decor of the room, in other cases there is still an element of imitation of a living flame, for example, as in electrical installations.

A false fireplace can be a great decor in a room of any size.

The main advantages of this design can be considered absolute safety (unless, of course, you decide to install a lot of candles in the portal) and low cost compared to a real fireplace. In addition, there are other advantages of false fireplaces:

• allowed for installation even in an apartment, while it is forbidden to mount a real fireplace in an apartment building;
• with its help, you can mask the defects and shortcomings of the room, for example, hide a battery or a pipe, and it is also beneficial to use the so-called dead zones, for example, a corner;
• top and side you can equip shelves for decor and storage of various small things;
• emphasize the stylistic direction of the room design, for example, when choosing a baroque or other classical style.

A false fireplace will be appropriate even in a children's room

Types of structures

There are several types of false fireplaces that you can install in your own apartment:

There is another classification, which is based on the installation site of such a design:

• suspension;
• wall-mounted;
• angular;
• built-in;
• island.

What can be made

If you are a fan of doing crafts, then you can use absolutely any building material to make a decorative fireplace, including the following:

1. Brick. It allows you to create an artificial hearth as close as possible to the present. For installation, you can choose a decorative or facing brick. The disadvantages of this design are a significant mass, which means that it can be mounted only after checking the overlap for the ability to withstand such a weight. However, there are also advantages, in addition to naturalness. Such a false fireplace can not be faced with anything.

   Brick false fireplace is as similar as possible to the real one

2. Plates with laminated coating. Before using this material, it is imperative to draw up a drawing, on which it is necessary to indicate all the dimensions of the future structure. The drawing is needed in order to cut the material. Chipboard sheets have similar properties, however, such a design requires further finishing, for example, with foam plastic "bricks".

   A fireplace made of laminated sheets looks very concise

3. Polyurethane. As a rule, this material is used to finish an already finished structure. However, special pieces such as mouldings, architraves and half-columns can be glued directly to the wall and decorated accordingly. Using decor and trying various techniques with highlighting, it can be turned into an unusual piece of furniture. There is one more advantage - if desired, such a fireplace can be repainted in any color. This allows you to update the interior with minimal investment in a short time.

   Polyurethane fireplace can be simply glued to the wall

4. Drywall. This material is most popular for the manufacture of false fireplaces. It has undoubted advantages - ease of assembly and combination with other finishing materials. If desired, the plasterboard construction can be decorated in any style, which means it is suitable for any interior. In addition, you can build a structure of any complexity. An artificial hearth can be deep, with a square or round portal, with columns or minimalistic. You can change the lining without disassembling the entire structure, which is very convenient.

   Most often, a false fireplace is made of drywall.

5. Wood. Using this material, you can make a false fireplace, which will be part of the furniture set, which means it will be made in the same style as the entire design of the room.

   Wooden false fireplace can be artificially aged

In addition to those listed, for the manufacture of a false fireplace, you can also use improvised materials, for example, cardboard boxes or old furniture.

Dimensional drawings

The dimensions of the structure largely depend directly on the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room where it will be installed. For example, a corner unit for a small room might be 330 mm deep and 1,300 mm long.

A small room can also be decorated with a wall-mounted false fireplace. At the same time, the dimensions of the structure are recommended to be slightly reduced, for example, to make a portal with parameters of 1,360 * 500 * 1,050 mm.

In a small room, you can install a wall or hanging fireplace

When installing a false fireplace in a medium-sized room, more opportunities appear:

• you can make a more massive structure by decorating it with additional decorative elements, for example, columns and stucco;
• it is allowed to use not only shelves, but also countertops, but only if the partition is able to withstand such a design;
• you can place an artificial fireplace in the center of the room, and not just near the wall.

The drawing should indicate the dimensions of each part.

When decorating a room in a classic style, a false fireplace can be massive with appropriate decorations. For example, the dimensions of the bottom can be 1500mm, the top 1490mm and the depth 345mm.

If you want an artificial fireplace to look attractive, expensive, and high-status, then it is recommended to use artificial and natural stone, forged elements, valuable wood for decoration.

In a large room, a false fireplace can be installed in the center of the room

When making a copy of the fireplace for a large living room, you can follow the following rules:

• island location, thanks to which you can create a very massive and unusual design that will perform several functions at once;
• you can not use a hinged structure;
• the partition wall for a false fireplace must be such that it does not deform under the influence of a large weight of the structure.

A false fireplace can also look like a home oven

How to make a fake fireplace with your own hands - step by step instructions

You can make a fake fireplace with your own hands from any building material. It all depends on your imagination and financial capabilities.

From drywall

The corner construction of drywall looks very original. Such a fake fireplace can be installed even if the room is too small for any such devices, because it can also be used as a storage space. To make it, you need to prepare:

• metal profile - 13 pcs.;
• drywall 9.5 mm thick, better moisture resistant - 3 sheets;
• tiles - 5 m;
• self-tapping screws - 200 pcs.;
• grout for ceramic tiles of the corresponding color;
• LED strip imitating fire;
• decorative grille.

It is necessary to make a corner decorative fireplace from drywall in accordance with the following instructions:

1. Correctly calculate the dimensions. In the event that you close the battery with the design, this must be done in such a way that it has free access.

   From drywall you can build any complexity

2. Install the frame. To do this, you can use a ceiling metal profile.

   Ceiling profile suitable for the frame

3. Lay electrical wiring if an electric fireplace is installed in the portal. Such a fireplace should have at least three exits: two on the facade and one above the shelf. For additional illumination, an LED strip is suitable.
4. Finish the fire hole. Here you need to make two walls, between which you need to lay any non-combustible material.

   The fireplace insert must have two walls, between which non-combustible material must be laid.

5. Now the frame can be sheathed with drywall. Details must be pre-cut from the sheets according to the drawn up drawing.

   You need to cut out the parts from drywall in advance

6. Make a few holes in the casing. They are needed so that warm air can circulate freely.

   Holes are needed for air circulation

7. Revet with ceramic tiles or any other material. It is better to give preference to facade tiles, as they are resistant to temperature changes and negative external influences. You can also use gypsum tiles imitating stone. In this case, it is recommended to use a heat-resistant adhesive.

   When using facing bricks, you can make a fireplace very similar to a real one.

Such a fireplace will occupy an area of ​​​​only 1.5 m 2.

Video: plasterboard false fireplace

Reuse of cardboard boxes

You can also make a decoration in the form of a fireplace from large cardboard boxes. They should be as dense as possible, should keep their shape well. For this you need to prepare:

• cardboard boxes of different sizes (4 pcs. large and 5-6 pcs. small);
• white paper that can be replaced with wallpaper;
• glue;
• scotch;
• colored cardboard, paints or wallpaper with a pattern of bricks.

It is necessary to make a false fireplace from cardboard boxes in the following sequence:

1. Place the boxes in the order in which they should be in the finished version.

   For the fireplace, you can use boxes of different sizes.

2. Now you can connect these boxes to each other. It is very convenient to use tape for this.
3. After the frame is made, it must be pasted over with white paper or wallpaper. For this purpose, you can use either adhesive tape or PVA glue. All edges should be even, for which you need to cut the paper in the corners.

   You can use tape or glue to attach.

4. Separately, make the top shelf, which is also pasted over with white paper, and then fixed on the prepared frame.

   The shelf at the cardboard fireplace should also be

5. Cut out bricks from red cardboard, which are then glued to the frame using clerical glue. Instead of colored cardboard bricks, you can use decorated wallpaper. Also, bricks can simply be drawn.

   Bricks can be made from cardboard

6. The top surface can be left undecorated or covered with paint.

   Cardboard fireplace is very light and mobile

Video: do-it-yourself fireplace from boxes

from wood

Using a similar technology, you can make a structure or chipboard or plywood:

1. According to the drawing, cut out all the necessary details.
2. Assemble the frame from the timber. All other wooden parts will need to be attached to it. In this case, you can use several methods of fixation at once: tongue and groove, gluing, connecting with hardware. The choice of method of fastening depends on the exclusivity of the required reliability of fixation.
3. Fix on the assembled frame decorative elements from bars of different sizes, moldings.
4. External finishing. There are several options for exterior finishes. Such a false fireplace can simply be covered with white paint, tiled or decorative bricks.
5. The decor of the firebox, which will give maximum credibility to the fireplace. For a wooden structure, it is recommended to use natural and decorative accessories, such as fir branches, cones, dry firewood.

In order to make the structure less massive, some wooden parts can be replaced with plywood elements.

Video: do-it-yourself decorative fireplace

Polyurethane

To make a false fireplace from this material, you must first choose the style of the product, and also, in the case of using an electric fireplace for the portal, take into account the dimensions of this device, the way it is connected, and the need for ventilation. Additionally, you need to prepare:

• polyurethane portal;
• miter box;
• hacksaw for metal;
• roulette;
• drill;
• glue;
• putty;
• sandpaper;
• facing material.

The installation process itself takes place in the following sequence:

1. Decide on the installation location. It is best to do this on the side wall of the room. Moreover, it is necessary to place a false fireplace made of polyurethane so that it does not interfere with free movement.

   A polyurethane fake fireplace is very easy to do yourself

2. Socket installation. This stage is necessary if an electric fireplace will be located inside the portal. The wiring must match the voltage used, while the outlet itself must be placed as close as possible to the false fireplace.
3. Wall surface preparation. It needs to be leveled and cleaned.
4. Application of markings on polyurethane. This information can be taken from a drawing prepared in advance.
5. Fixation of polyurethane parts. To fasten parts, you need to use special contact glue and self-tapping screws. This will increase the reliability of the structure and extend its service life. During this process, care must be taken to ensure that the corners of the parts correlate with each other. In advance, for self-tapping screws, you need to make holes with a drill.

   For ease of manufacture, the entire structure can first be laid out on the floor

6. External finishing. There are several options for a raised polyurethane fireplace. Stucco molding can either be attached to a special glue, or with self-tapping screws. The second option is more reliable, but there is a risk that the caps of the screws will be visible to the naked eye. Therefore, when using a mechanical method of fastening, additional decoration of the joints is recommended.

   You can cut polyurethane with a hacksaw

It is possible to give aesthetics to the structure if it is puttied, primed and painted after manufacturing.

Video: installation of polyurethane false fireplace moldings

From old furniture

Turning an old wardrobe or chest of drawers is the most budgetary option for making a false fireplace. To convert you will need:

• plywood;
• grinder with a nozzle for wood;
• jigsaw;
• screwdriver;
• paint, best acrylic;
• putty;
• LED Strip Light;
• plaster molding.

After preparing all the necessary tools and material, you must follow the following instructions:

1. Remove the doors from the sideboard, remove extra drawers and cabinets.

   All doors and drawers must be removed from the sideboard

2. Install two beams in front.

   In addition to the frame, you will also need bars and plywood sheets.

3. Attach plywood sheets with which to form a portal hole.

   You can set the dimensions of the furnace yourself

4. Make a hole for the blower. It can have any shape, the most ergonomic will be a semicircle. Also, the space can serve to wound firewood.

   The blower can be used to store firewood

5. Make a pedestal and a decorative shelf. For this purpose, you can take the backs of an old bed, first you need to unscrew the legs of these parts.

   The fireplace needs a pedestal and a shelf

6. Proceed to the external decoration of the false fireplace. All polished surfaces of the cabinet must be processed with a grinding machine, then primed, puttied and carefully leveled. After the putty has dried, sand the surface with sandpaper. Now the false fireplace can be painted, and then finished with a facing material, for example, facing bricks. You need to finish the work by gluing all the decorative elements and installing the shelf.

   For finishing, you can use any facing material

7. Arrange the space of the firebox. Why lay an orange or yellow LED strip around the perimeter. At the bottom you can lay stones or shells.

   To simulate fire, you can use an LED strip

By following these instructions, you can create a raised fireplace in any style.

No one will guess that a sideboard was turned into a fireplaceFalse fireplace made of decorative bricksFor a false fireplace made of large bricks, a foundation may be required

from brick

A false brick fireplace looks the most natural. In its manufacture, it is necessary to strictly follow the masonry technology, otherwise the structure will be unreliable and quickly collapse. You need to prepare in advance:

• brick - 25 pcs.;
• steel strip for overlapping;
• solid board with a thickness of 4 cm or more for a mantelpiece;
• cement mortar.

For a fireplace, you can set the standard dimensions of the base 900 * 250 mm and the firebox 500 * 380 mm. The mass of such a design will not exceed 100 kg, which means that an additional foundation will not be needed.

A large brick false fireplace may require a foundation.

The technique for making a false brick fireplace is as follows:

1. First you need to prepare a solution. It is better to purchase a special powder designed for such work. It is enough to dilute it with water in the proportions indicated on the package.
2. Lay out the brick base in half a brick, after which you can go to the walls and the firebox. Lay the walls brick-thick with overlapping seams.
3. Lay a shelf on top of the frame or attach a countertop.
4. Decorate the firebox. To do this, you can stick a film with the image of a brick on the back wall, put candles or brushwood in the firebox itself. Instead of a film, you can use a mirror, so that the depth of the firebox will appear larger.

What to make fire

In no case should a real fire be kindled in a false fireplace, even if the structure was made of brick. Can be used to simulate a flame.

A warm fireplace with crackling firewood inside is an interior element from films and books, which is almost impossible to see in real life. 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 do not have to have special skills, you just need to put a little imagination and effort. We will talk about how to make a false fireplace with your own hands in this article.

Varieties of decorative fireplaces

A false fireplace in the interior plays a leading role, 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 fixture.

• Classic. More than others, the classic is the hearth of a square or rectangular shape. It is often decorated with stucco, bas-reliefs, as well as artificial stones that look like jewelry. Finishing this type of fireplace is best done with tiles imitating marble or brick.

• Country style. It is characterized by rough materials. Imitation is performed as simply as possible, and any leafy flowers are not appropriate in this case.

• Modern. For it, you can use any glossy surface with a reflective effect. And for a high-tech style, a designer product with sharp corners and mirror details will fit perfectly.

Drywall artificial fireplace

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

The process of making a drywall fireplace

This material can be purchased at any building materials store, and the price for it is acceptable. To make a decorative false fireplace, you need:

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

To your attention, step-by-step instructions for installing an artificial false fireplace:

1. 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 can be found on the Internet, and download the option you like. For beginners, we advise you to start with 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 those places on the wall where the hearth frame will subsequently be located. The corner false fireplace will first have to be fully assembled, and then mounted on the wall, and in other situations, you can start assembling the frame base directly on the wall.
2. Cut the strips of the metal profile, based on the marks applied to the wall. You can assemble the back wall by attaching 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).
3. Gradually assemble the frame completely, be sure to refer to the drawing, otherwise you will easily get confused and the product will turn out to be uneven. For greater stability of the hearth on the side and back walls, attach transverse jumpers from the same profile to the main frame every 30 cm.
4. It's time for drywall. To cut it, you can use a clerical knife, a jigsaw or a hacksaw, and in their absence, a durable sharp knife will do. Accurately measure each area of ​​the frame where the part will subsequently be attached, and transfer the dimensions to the drywall.
5. Cut out the pieces and screw them to the base with 25mm self-tapping screws. At this stage, the base of the decorative hearth is ready.

How to veneer a drywall hearth

Finishing false fireplaces is quite straightforward.

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

• When preparing the base for the tile, you must definitely pay attention to what is written on the adhesive package. You can’t immediately try to overwrite the seams, start this process only a day after the end of the work, so that the glue has time to grab and dry.
• In addition, you may need a shelf. You can buy an ordinary wooden plank or a step from a ladder at any hardware store. The original gypsum stucco molding is also purchased there, the cost of 2 half-columns + 2 half-bases is approximately 2000 rubles.

Plasterboard decoration

The drywall hearth is quite durable, so you can give it more naturalness with the help of ordinary building materials.

Suitable for firebox:

• tile;
• artificial brick;
• mirror panels.

The upper part can also be decorated, as well as 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 such an element of the interior.

Decorative hearth made of cardboard

Cardboard is a simple and affordable material that is useful for making a cozy hearth. The most budgetary is a false fireplace made of 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 of 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 for the New Year, thereby organizing a beautiful photo zone for the whole family. For creativity you will need:

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

Step by step process instruction:

1. Choose the product sketch you like and transfer it to the box.
2. The extra parts from the box should be cut off, the sides of the reamer should be fixed together with a stapler, and all joints of the sides should be glued with construction tape.
3. Using a knife, you should cut through the outlines of the firebox, and also glue its edges with tape.
4. The prepared base can already be mounted on the wall. Do this with double-sided tape.
5. Cut the wallpaper and paste over the fireplace with it. If you don't want to fool around, buy a self-adhesive with a brick pattern. However, remember that the wallpaper will look more natural.
6. To decorate the top, cut out a shelf from the same cardboard, or purchase a beautiful piece from foam.

How to simulate 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 device that is inserted inside. The price of the issue is about 11,000 - 15,000 rubles. The built-in appliance produces an image of burning firewood, and a corresponding light crackling sound.

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

• As an option, decorating a fake product with light bulbs or New Year's garlands. To enhance the effect, wrap real firewood with a garland with yellow LED bulbs that do not heat up.

• For the drywall option, a mirror firebox with ordinary candles placed there is acceptable. The tongues of flame will reflect beautifully off the mirrors, creating a reflection effect.
• Another interesting move is to place an ordinary table lamp in the niche of the firebox, and seal the opening with a translucent yellow or orange film. However, in this case, consider where it is better to hide the wire in order to 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

The decorative hearth, first of all, is designed to please the eye, so it is not at all necessary to equip it with logs and put a poker next to it. Modern designers offer many interesting ideas for decorating.

• A classic of the genre is the clock on the mantelpiece. Why break with tradition? In the case when the room has an imitation of a hearth, decorators suggest placing the clock in a niche or in a firebox. In addition, it will not be superfluous to place figurines or books on the shelf.

• Real flowers are usually not placed near a real “home fire”, as it will be hot for them, but it is quite possible to decorate a decorative analogue with indoor flowers and spruce twigs.

• For gourmets, use a niche as a bottle bar.

As you have noticed, the manufacture of original author's fireplaces does not require a lot of time and money. What options would you prefer? Share your opinion in the comments.

Video: Do-it-yourself decorative fireplace from cardboard boxes

Many residents of city apartments want to equip their home with an island of warmth and comfort. For many, owning a real fireplace remains an unattainable pleasure, it is difficult and unsafe to implement such a project, and gas and electric fireplaces are also not always appropriate. False fireplace - a hearth that does not require firewood, an imitation of a real fireplace, performs a predominantly decorative function. It is safe, beautiful and multifunctional, and the cost of its construction is minimal.

3 types of raised fireplace designs

1. Stationary;
2. Mobile;
3. Flat.

Stationary false fireplaces are often designed at the stage of finishing the premises. The basis of the structure, as a rule, is a frame made of timber or metal profiles. Sheathe the fireplace with boards, drywall, plywood, tile or artificial stone.

The mobile design is also convenient, it can be rearranged from place to place, decorated with carvings, glass, wood, stained-glass windows, and so on. A flat fireplace is a pseudo hearth; an imitation of a facade is created on the wall using a decorative frame. By the way, the hearth can also be painted, as in the well-known fairy tale about Pinocchio and the Golden Key. There are many options for decorating a false fireplace, let's talk about the most interesting ideas.

10 most popular design ideas for false fireplaces in the interior of apartments

1. Fake fireplace easel

To decorate such a false fireplace, an ordinary slate board is suitable. It is best if it is an ordinary flat false fireplace: a slate or magnetic board is inserted into the hearth, you can attach nice shelves to the side and put magnets, colored crayons or markers on them. Such a fireplace is not just a decoration, but also a means of entertainment and development for children. It will be possible to play a guessing game together, add words from magnets and so on. If you wish, arrange such a false fireplace in the nursery, and set the child's working corner next to it.

2. False fireplace with candles

Far from every false fireplace, you can put firewood in order to create a full-fledged illusion of the presence of a real hearth. You can replace the fire from logs with candles: dream up, create a beautiful composition (it can be changed regularly so that it does not bother you). In winter, candles can be combined with spruce branches and cones, in summer - with a wreath of dried flowers, in autumn - with yellow foliage. Such a corner of nature will be a win-win option, it will enliven the space and give you and your loved ones a lot of pleasant moments.

3. False fireplace with media zone

This is a great option if a false fireplace is placed in the center of the living room. In this case, it would be logical to equip a false fireplace and a television area in one place. Near a real fireplace, technology does not “live” for a long time, but next to an imitation it will be possible to create a beautiful and durable composition. We would like to remind you that it is better to place stationary and mobile false fireplaces in rooms of medium and large sizes; for small rooms, flat products are best suited that will not take up an already limited space. Next to the false fireplace, you can place shelves for disks, equipment, remotes, and so on, and hide the wires behind the fireplace itself.

4. False fireplace with shelves

Since an imitation fireplace should not only decorate the room, but also be useful, you can arrange a small “exhibition” there. Arrange your favorite books, souvenirs, decor items, photographs on the shelves and organize a family corner. Such a solution will harmoniously fit into a room of any style: for Art Nouveau, shelves can be made of glass, for Provence - covered with floral painting, for classic, wooden carving is suitable.

5. Fake fireplace for themed decor

We often do not have enough space to implement original ideas in preparation for the holiday. A false fireplace can also serve as a decoration of a room on ordinary days, and on holidays it can transform a room beyond recognition. In the New Year, it will be possible to decorate it with coniferous compositions, beautiful Christmas balls, traditional "stockings" for Santa's gifts; for Easter, pastries surrounded by colorful Easter eggs and Easter eggs will look beautiful. On a birthday, a false fireplace can be decorated with balloons and posters; on Halloween, put a carved pumpkin with candles - there are many options. The main thing is to show your imagination and turn a small corner into a real masterpiece.

6. Fake fireplace in vintage style

Vintage style has been all the rage lately, so if you're a fan of it too, why not decorate your fireplace with this theme? Moreover, you won’t need any special efforts and expenses; old vases, posters, paintings in antique frames and much more are suitable for these purposes. Even old suitcases, painted with plain paint or covered with interesting paintings, will bring an unusual touch to the design of the room. On the shelves you can arrange books in old bindings, old candlesticks, figurines, painted plates and much more - the main thing is to keep all the decor in the same style.

7. False fireplace with decorative grille

This option will look as natural and natural as possible, the decorative lattice can be made of deliberately roughly planed wood, or be a real work of art - this is carving or figured forging. In this case, it is better to decorate the portal itself with artificial stone or wood - these materials look very organic and bring amazing notes to the atmosphere of the room.

8. False fireplace with stucco

Let's make a reservation right away that gypsum stucco is quite expensive, this is a laborious task, so if you want a classic fireplace with bas-reliefs or stucco, it's easier to limit yourself to polyurethane. The frame of the false fireplace is mounted from metal profiles, drywall is attached to it, and then a polyurethane decor - it can be glued with construction glue or “liquid nails”, and then the entire product can be covered with plain paint. Embossed products look very interesting and advantageous.

9. Fake fireplace with stickers

For flat fireplaces, the easiest way is to use themed stickers. If you search well, they can be found in hardware stores. Imitation of brickwork, natural stone, firewood, hearth - all these variations can be used to create a false fireplace.

10. False fireplace with a mirror

Glass and mirror surfaces not only visually expand the room, but also create a unique effect of the play of light. You can use stained glass or ordinary mirrors: they will reflect the environment and play glare of light - a very beautiful and non-standard solution. The main thing is to keep all the elements of the interior in the same style and similar colors so that the room seems to be solid.

There are quite a few options on how to decorate a false fireplace, choose the one that suits your inner feelings and the general style of the interior and feel free to experiment!

The desire for comfort and coziness is inherent in each of us. The warmth of the hearth is not empty words. What could be better than spending evenings by the fireplace watching the flames? Owners of private houses can afford a real fireplace, but for residents of city apartments, this, unfortunately, is an unaffordable luxury. But for real masters, nothing is impossible, and today we will tell you how to make a false fireplace in an apartment.

What is a fake fireplace and why is it needed

In a city apartment, conditions will not allow you to install an ordinary fireplace. The absence of chimneys, ceilings that are not designed for such loads are the main obstacles to obtaining permission to build such a structure. False fireplaces come to the rescue, which you can easily assemble on your own, without having special skills in construction work.

Of course, you can buy an electric fireplace - such devices are now common, and their installation will not take much time and effort. But creating a fireplace with your own hands is a very exciting activity, it gives vent to imagination, allows you to make an exclusive thing. In addition, an open fire in an apartment is optional (and it is unlikely that you will be allowed to do this), and a false fireplace will serve you as a multifunctional decoration.

Note! Although you will not light a fire in a false fireplace, still do not put flammable things below. Especially if the building covers heating batteries or you plan to put electrical appliances in the furnace.

The fake fireplace looks like the real one

Artificial fireplaces have the following advantages:

• cheapness - you only need money for materials;
• availability of materials necessary for the manufacture of the structure;
• the ability to change the decor at any time according to your mood;
• use in decorating inexpensive, but original and beautiful materials.

False fireplaces are divided into 3 groups:

1. Reliable artificial fireplaces completely imitate the real ones, respecting both the dimensions and design principles. Inside the firebox, you can install a bio-fireplace burner, which will provide an almost exact effect of a burning hearth. Quite an expensive option, but it looks the most believable.
2. Conditional false fireplaces have a portal protruding from the wall. They can be decorated according to your taste and desire. The furnace hole is usually filled with firewood or candles are placed there.
3. Symbolic can be made from any materials. Their peculiarity is that they are not at all like an ordinary fireplace. It can even be a picture made on the wall with some decorative elements.

Manufacturing options

For the manufacture of artificial fireplaces, the simplest materials are used, which can always be found not only in the store, but also at home:

• drywall;
• plywood;
• Styrofoam;
• cardboard;
• wood;
• brick;
• polyurethane.

You can make such a structure even from old furniture that has already served its purpose, but it’s a pity to throw it away.

This is the easiest and fastest way. You only need to buy a polyurethane portal for the fireplace. The most difficult part of this task will be the choice of style and size suitable for the room, and everything else will take you a minimum of time and effort.

If you want to insert an electric fireplace, consider its installation and overall dimensions, the method of connecting to the mains and the quality of ventilation.

The lightweight polyurethane frame of the raised fireplace saves you a lot of installation hassle.

You will need:

• polyurethane portal for a fireplace;
• contact adhesive;
• putty;
• materials for finishing the firebox (for example, decorative bricks).

And now we will tell you step by step how to install such a fireplace.

1. The best place to install such a fireplace is one of the side walls of the room. The structure should not clutter up the room and interfere with the passage.
2. If you decide to place an electric fireplace or decorative electric lighting inside the portal, first take care of the wiring and socket.
3. Make the frame of the furnace from a profile or wooden blocks, and the walls from plywood or drywall.
4. Install the portal, carefully fix it on the contact adhesive. Carefully fill the gaps between the portal and the firebox with finishing putty.
5. Finish the firebox in the style you have chosen, or install an electric fireplace. If desired, you can install a mantel made of artificial stone or wood.

Such portals are made not only from polyurethane, but also from wood. They are much more expensive, but among them you can find real masterpieces, additionally equipped with, for example, a built-in bar.

plywood construction

This idea comes in handy if you need to hide some flaw in the room, such as an old heating radiator, which will cost a lot to replace. A false fireplace will come in handy here.

The need to cover the old heating radiator is a great opportunity to install a false fireplace

Carry out calculations and make a drawing of the future structure. This will help you not to waste extra money and time.

Drawing of a standard fireplace

Note! When you develop a drawing, refer to ready-made options for fireplaces made of stone. Based on them, you can easily design your false fireplace.

First of all, install the frame right in place. Wooden blocks are suitable for it.

Frame made of bars for a raised fireplace

Next, sheathe the frame with plywood. The design of the fireplace and its appearance can be adjusted during operation. For example, you can add a podium to the portal. A heating battery is located inside the structure, so it is better to assemble the frame on screws: nails at high temperatures do not guarantee a snug fit of plywood to the bars in the future.

Frame covered with drywall

On the back wall, fix a firebox on the bar that imitates a fireplace. Cover all exposed surfaces with self-adhesive tape.

Install the firebox and cover it with foil

Close the corners of the portal with a wooden layout, also paste over it with a film of the same color.

The corners of the portal must be closed and also pasted over with a film

This design turns out to be easily removable (it is not attached to the wall at this stage), and you will easily get access to the radiator. The fireplace insert needs to be decorated with something, so you can put a metal mesh tray on the battery.

A metal mesh tray that will become the bottom of the firebox

You will fill it with pebbles, firewood or other decorative elements.

Pour pebbles or other filler into the metal mesh

You can order a fireplace grate or make it yourself. To do this, you will need a copper profile. If it is not available, aluminum wire inserted into a PVC tube and painted with gold paint will do. Such a grate is attached to the fireplace body with copper wire in 4 places.

Scheme of a metal grate

Pipes that fit the battery can be closed with a continuation of the podium.

Close the heating pipes with a podium

So that useful space is not wasted, make a bar under the mantelpiece.

Use of additional space

As a result, you will get such a fireplace, almost indistinguishable from the real one.

Finished fake fireplace

New life for old furniture

This is the most budget option. You probably have an old wardrobe or sideboard. Do not rush to throw away this piece of furniture: based on it, you can easily make a wonderful imitation of a backlit fireplace.

you will need:

• plywood sheets;
• wood grinder;
• jigsaw;
• screwdriver;
• acrylic paint;
• putty;
• LED Strip Light;
• stucco molding, decorative elements, gypsum finishing stone;
• surfaces.

1. Remove the doors from the old sideboard, remove the lower cabinet. The top section will remain, put it on its side.

   Preparing an old sideboard for work

2. Screw two beams in front.

   Screw 2 beams

3. Top and bottom, fasten two sheets of plywood to the bars. Thus, the required thickness will be given to the fireplace.

   Fix plywood sheets

4. Cut a hole in the door of the side cabinet (which is now at the bottom) for the “blower”. Here you can store firewood, as in a real fireplace.

   Cut a hole for the "blower"

5. Your fake fireplace will need a plinth and a mantelpiece. Two backs from the old bed can act as them. Don't forget to unscrew their legs.

   The headboards will serve as a pedestal and a mantelpiece

6. The design is ready, now you need to start finishing work. Roughen polished surfaces with a grinder to make them rough. Prime the walls; after they dry - putty and level the surface. Dry the putty, sand the bumps. Paint the body with acrylic paint, finish the corners with brick or artificial stone. Stick decorative elements, install a mantelpiece.

   Finishing a fake fireplace from old furniture

7. Set up a firebox. Glue the LED strip around the perimeter. Suitable red or yellow - they perfectly imitate a smoldering fire. Fill the bottom with shells, pebbles or sand.

   Decorate the firebox: glue the LED strip, put pebbles, shells or sand on the bottom

As a result, you will get such a magnificent fireplace in vintage style.

Ready-made false fireplace from an old sideboard

Imitation of a plasterboard fireplace

This time we will consider the option of a corner false fireplace made of drywall. This task will be more difficult than the previous ones. Why a corner fireplace? Because in a small apartment, the corner is the freest place, which is ideal for installing such a structure.

Corner false fireplace made of drywall

So, you will need the following materials:

• metal profile - 13 pcs;
• moisture resistant drywall 9.5 mm - 3 sheets;
• tiles - 5 m;
• self-tapping screws - 200 pcs;
• grout for tiles;
• LED Strip Light;
• decorative grille.

1. Calculate the dimensions. In this case, please note: if you need to close the battery, you need to do it so that it can be easily reached. For possible emergencies, it is better to let the battery through the bottom opening.

   Approximate diagram of a corner fireplace

2. After the calculations are made, and the fireplace diagram is drawn up, begin to mount the frame. A ceiling profile will do for him, besides, it is cheaper.
3. Immediately make the wiring for the backlight. As you can see in the first photo, in our case there are three output points: two on the facade and one above the shelf. An LED strip is used as a backlight.
4. The furnace hole can be made with double walls. A non-combustible insulation will be laid between them.

   Finishing a false fireplace with decorative tiles

5. For decorative finishes, you can use stone tiles. It is made of plaster, so it is not suitable for work surfaces.

This fireplace covers approximately 1.6 square meters. A small electric fireplace or a small alcohol burner can be placed inside the firebox.

Finishing

It is very important that the fireplace harmoniously fit into the interior of the room. You should carefully choose the style, color. But in addition, decorative trim should please the eye and create comfort.

How to achieve imitation of fire in a fireplace? Above, we offered options with LED strip, which provides lighting with a burning effect. But progress does not stand still, and an electronic photo frame can serve you well. It is a liquid crystal display, which is adapted to display pictures. You need a model capable of playing animated files such as GIFs. Upload an image of a burning fire to the photo frame and enjoy!

• Many owners of false fireplaces are very fond of decorating niches with spaced candles of different heights. It looks beautiful, stylish, and gives a real live fire.
• An excellent choice would be to install a mirror in the depth of the furnace niche, on the wall. A mirror will multiply the reflections from candles or electric lighting and add mystery to the fireplace.
• Artificial stone will help you to provide the effect of an expensive finish. It comes in a variety of colors and textures. Tiles, bas-reliefs and decorative tiles will give expressive individuality to the building. But do not overdo it: excessive pomposity may be out of place in your interior.
• Doors for false fireplaces will probably be superfluous, but if you decide to install them, make them from plexiglass. They can be transparent or tinted, but the light and glare of the "fire" are simply required to pass through.
• It is better to arrange a fireplace imitation firebox with a forged metal grate. It can be bought or ordered from the workshop.

Photo gallery of artificial fireplaces

An original and concise version - a simple niche with candles

Video: how to make a fake drywall fireplace with your own hands

As you can see, building a fireplace at home on your own is not at all difficult, and also cheap, especially if it is only an imitation. Accuracy, attention, the desire to do something original and creative imagination - that's all you need in order to enjoy the comfort, like the heroes of classic films. Share with us your experience in implementing such ideas, or ask any questions you have about this topic. Easy work for you and comfort for your home!

Many people dream of having a real fireplace with live fire in their home. But, unfortunately, not everyone can afford it due to various reasons. A decorative plasterboard fireplace is an alternative to a stone structure. You can do it yourself, without resorting to the help of specialists.

Benefits of drywall fireplaces

• It does not require permission from the fire inspectorate to install it.
• A decorative fireplace will cost much less than a real one - it can be built from the remnants of building materials after repair. In addition, it does not need to be constantly heated and spent on firewood.
• It does not require a chimney device.
• A fake fireplace is safe to use.
• It can be placed in any convenient place.
• When arranging such a fireplace, you can turn your fantasies into reality, make a “hearth” according to your own project.
• During its construction there are no "dirty" works. You can make a plasterboard fireplace and install it even after repairs in the room, etc.

A paper fireplace, a master class for the manufacture of which is presented, can be made independently from improvised materials. The question arises, how? Let's figure it out.

What is needed for the construction of a plasterboard false fireplace?

To install a decorative plasterboard fireplace with your own hands, you need to prepare the following tools and materials:

• drywall sheet;
• rails / fence / metal profile;
• screwdriver and self-tapping screws for plasterboard and metal;
• putty;
• Bulgarian;
• roulette;
• screwdriver;
• building level;
• pencil/marker/pen;
• whatman paper / sheet of paper;
• jigsaw / circular saw;
• abrasive mesh / sandpaper;
• bar;
• metal scissors.

Read also information about in addition to this article.

Video: making a drywall fireplace with your own hands

Advice! It is not necessary to buy a drywall sheet and a metal profile. For the device of a false fireplace, there will be enough scraps of materials left after the repair work.

A plasterboard fireplace can be equipped with an electronic portal with an imitation of live fire. Some people prefer to leave the firebox empty by placing candles, garlands or lanterns there.

Stages of creation

Making a decorative fireplace with your own hands - a list of successive events. By correctly performing the algorithm of actions described below, you can make an excellent drywall hearth without any extra cost and effort. Main stages of work:

• Choice of installation location.
• Create a sketch.
• Mounting.
• Facing.
• Finishing work.
• Decoration.

Earlier we already wrote about and advised to bookmark the article.

Place for a fireplace

Traditionally, a fireplace is placed in the middle of the wall in the living room. However, in modern city apartments there is not much free space and you have to improvise. A false fireplace can be installed in a corner, hiding an unsightly space from the eyes. An equally popular option is to build a “hearth” under the TV if it hangs on the wall. For spacious rooms, it is recommended to install a fireplace as a separate structure in the middle of the main wall opposite the entrance.

Advice! The fireplace can be installed in any room. It will look great in the hall, office, bedroom or nursery.

Sketch

A decorative fireplace always attracts the eyes of others, so it must fully match the interior of the room. It is recommended to pay great attention to its design. To do this, several sketches of the future structure are created and the best option is selected. Masters advise to draw a fireplace on a piece of drawing paper in the full size of the structure. The sketch is made in accordance with the dimensions of the selected place. Next, start creating the layout. It will help to calculate the required amount of building material and see the design errors. Some make it out of cardboard or paper.

Important! It is not necessary to develop a drawing on your own; you can take ready-made projects on the Internet as a basis.

Mounting

• The construction of a fireplace begins with the creation of a frame from a metal U-shaped profile. If one was not at hand, you can use a CD or UD profile.

Important! The frame structure does not carry a serious load, therefore, to create it, you can use trimmings of a metal profile, a picket fence or unnecessary rails.

The first step in creating a frame is cutting a metal profile and screwing a support (rear wall).

• The metal profile is cut according to the dimensions of the sketch. First, the support frame is assembled (the back wall of the frame) and screwed to the wall with dowel-nails or self-tapping screws.

Advice! You can assemble the design of the fireplace, and only then screw it to the wall. This is done after facing the side walls of the "hearth".

• Next, assemble the rest of the frame. Every 30 cm, jumpers are inserted between the horizontal and vertical guides for structural strength.

Advice! The most important thing when creating a frame is to make a geometrically correct design. All corners must be checked with a building level. With the curvature of the "body" of the fireplace at this stage, everything can be corrected.

Facing

The finished frame is sheathed with drywall. The sheets are pre-cut into several parts according to the sketch and screwed with self-tapping screws every 10 cm. If you plan to use heaters or candles inside the furnace hole, then the frame is sheathed with heat-resistant material. Most often magnesite, asbestos or sheet metal is used.

Details are cut out separately from drywall under the foot of the fireplace and under the mantelpiece. The corners of the structure are rounded off with an abrasive mesh and a bar. Sliding movements of the surface give smoothness and remove roughness. The shelf and foot are fixed with self-tapping screws and silicone glue.

Read also the article about in addition to this material.

Advice! If decorative finishing materials are applied to drywall, then the frame is sheathed with plasterboard in two layers.

Finishing

Do-it-yourself decorative plasterboard fireplace is “trimmed” to your taste. You can paste over the finished structure with a film or wallpaper, putty and paint, overlay with stone or tile.

If the plasterboard fireplace will be puttied and painted, then a primer layer is first applied to the surface of the structure, then all joints and seams are sealed. Putty is applied in several layers, first - starting, followed by rubbing with sandpaper, then - finishing. Dust is removed with a damp sponge or washcloth.

Advice! To make the corners of the fireplace even, a perforated corner is attached to them.

If you plan to make the fireplace as similar as possible to a traditional one, then it is recommended to decorate the installation with an artificial stone. To do this, the surface of the "hearth" is primed and the finishing material is glued to a special glue. After the glue has dried, the gaps between the stone / tile are sealed with a fugue.

You can cover the false fireplace with decorative plaster. After applying the first layer on the surface with a spatula, you can “draw” bricks or any other pattern. After drying, the edges of the ornament are passed with a brush, then a layer of acrylic paint is applied.

Decoration

The resulting decorative plasterboard fireplace can be decorated with plaster columns, forged products, stucco moldings, moldings, borders or baseboards. Some paste over the installation with a decorative film with stone imitation. The tabletop is also decorated to your taste. Decorating a fireplace is a creative process, and to create the atmosphere of a real hearth, you can use homemade logs, real bars, lantern candles, candlesticks and other attributes. Read the article about it on our website.

It is not difficult to make a decorative drywall fireplace with your own hands. It is not necessary to have building skills to make such a structure. All that is required from the master is attentiveness, ingenuity and imagination.