False fireplace in your home: do it yourself. Making a decorative fireplace with your own hands Decorative fireplace from an old book table

The desire for comfort and coziness is inherent in each of us. The warmth of a home is not an empty word. 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 false fireplace and why is it needed?

In a city apartment, conditions will not allow you to install a regular fireplace. The lack of chimneys and floors 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 yourself without having any 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 the creation of a fireplace with my own hands- a very exciting activity, it gives free rein to imagination, allows you to make an exclusive thing. In addition, an open fire in an apartment is not necessary (and you are unlikely to be allowed to do so), and a false fireplace will serve as a multifunctional decoration.

Note! Although you won't light a fire in a false fireplace, still don't put flammable things underneath. Especially if the structure covers heating radiators or you plan to place electrical appliances in the firebox.

False fireplace looks like a real one

Artificial fireplaces have the following advantages:

  • cheap - 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 of inexpensive, but original and beautiful materials in decoration.

False fireplaces are divided into 3 groups:

  1. Reliable artificial fireplaces completely imitate real ones, respecting both 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 plausible.
  2. Conventional false fireplaces have a portal protruding from the wall. They can be decorated according to your taste and desire. The combustion hole is usually filled with firewood or candles are placed there.
  3. Symbolic ones can be made from any materials. Their peculiarity is that they are not at all like an ordinary fireplace. It could even be a drawing made on the wall with some decorative elements.

Manufacturing options

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

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

You can make such a structure even from old furniture, which 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 thing in this task will be choosing the style and size suitable for the room, and everything else will take you a minimum of time and effort.

If you want to install an electric fireplace, take into account its installation and dimensions, method of connection to the electrical network and quality of ventilation.

The lightweight body of the false fireplace made of polyurethane will save you from many installation hassles

You will need:

  • polyurethane portal for the fireplace;
  • contact glue;
  • putty;
  • materials for finishing the firebox (for example, decorative brick).

Now we’ll 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 the room or interfere with passage.
  2. If you decide to place an electric fireplace or decorative electric lighting inside the portal, take care of the wiring and socket first.
  3. Make the firebox frame from profiles or wooden blocks, and the walls from plywood or plasterboard.
  4. Install the portal, carefully secure it with contact glue. Carefully fill the gaps between the portal and the firebox with finishing putty.
  5. Finish the firebox in the style you choose, or install an electric fireplace. If desired, you can install a fireplace mantel from 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, for example, with a built-in bar.

Plywood construction

This idea is useful if you need to hide some defect in the room, for example, an old heating radiator, the replacement of which will not be cheap. A false fireplace will come in handy here.

The need to cover up the old heating radiator- an excellent opportunity to install a false fireplace

Carry out calculations and make a drawing of the future structure. This will help you avoid wasting extra money and time.

Drawing of a standard fireplace

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

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

Frame made of bars for a false fireplace

Next, cover 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. Inside the structure there is heating battery, so it is better to assemble the frame with screws: nails in conditions high temperature do not guarantee a tight fit of plywood to the bars in the future.

Frame covered with plasterboard

By back wall attach a firebox that imitates a fireplace to the block. Cover all surfaces visible from the outside with self-adhesive film.

Install the firebox and cover it with film

Cover the corners of the portal with a wooden layout, and cover it with film of the same color.

The corners of the portal need to be closed and also covered with film.

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

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

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

Fill in metal mesh pebbles or other filler

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

Metal grating diagram

The pipes that go to the battery can be covered with an extension of the podium.

Cover the heating pipes with a podium

So that useful space does not go to waste, create a bar under the fireplace mantel.

Using extra space

As a result, you will get a fireplace like this, almost indistinguishable from the real thing.

Ready-made false fireplace

New life for old furniture

This is the most budget option. You probably have an old wardrobe or sideboard. Don’t rush to throw away this piece of furniture: on its basis you can easily make an excellent imitation of a fireplace with lighting.

you will need:

  • plywood sheets;
  • wood sander;
  • jigsaw;
  • screwdriver;
  • acrylic paint;
  • putty;
  • LED Strip Light;
  • stucco molding, decorative elements, gypsum finishing stone;
  • surfaces.
  1. Remove the doors from the old sideboard and remove the lower cabinet. The top section will remain, place it on its side.

    Preparing an old sideboard for use

  2. Screw two beams in front.

    Screw 2 beams

  3. Attach two sheets of plywood to the bars at the top and bottom. This will give the fireplace the required thickness.

    Secure the plywood sheets

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

    Cut out a hole for the “blower”

  5. Your raised fireplace will need a pedestal and mantel. They can be used as two headboards from an old bed. Don't forget to unscrew their legs.

    The headboards of the bed will serve as a pedestal and mantelpiece.

  6. The design is ready, now we need to start finishing works. Sand the polished surfaces to roughen them. Prime the walls; after they dry, putty and level the surface. Dry the putty and sand down any uneven surfaces. Paint the body acrylic paint, trim the corners with brick or artificial stone. Glue on decorative elements and install a mantelpiece.

    Finishing a false fireplace from old furniture

  7. Decorate the firebox. Glue LED strip around the perimeter. Red or yellow will do - they will perfectly imitate a smoldering fire. Place shells, pebbles or sand at the bottom.

    Decorate the firebox: glue in an LED strip, add pebbles, shells or sand to the bottom

As a result, you will have this gorgeous vintage-style fireplace.

Ready-made false fireplace from an old sideboard

Imitation of a fireplace made of plasterboard

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

Corner false fireplace made of plasterboard

So, you will need the following materials:

  • metal profile - 13 pcs;
  • moisture-resistant plasterboard 9.5 mm - 3 sheets;
  • tiles - 5 m;
  • self-tapping screws - 200 pcs;
  • tile grout;
  • LED Strip Light;
  • decorative lattice.
  1. Calculate the dimensions. Please note: if you need to close the battery, you need to do it in such a way that it can be easily reached. For possible emergency situations, it is better to run the battery through the lower opening.

    Approximate diagram of a corner fireplace

  2. After the calculations have been made and the fireplace diagram has been drawn up, begin installing the frame. A ceiling profile is suitable for it, and it is also cheaper.
  3. Immediately make electrical wiring for the lighting. 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 illumination.
  4. The combustion hole can be made with double walls. Non-flammable insulation will be laid between them.

    Finishing a false fireplace with decorative tiles

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

This fireplace takes up approximately 1.6 square meters. You can place a small electric fireplace or a small alcohol burner inside the firebox.

Finishing

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

How to simulate fire in a fireplace? Above, we offered options with LED strip, which provides illumination 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 that is designed to display pictures. You need a model that can play animated files, such as GIFs. Upload an image of a burning fire to your photo frame and enjoy!

  • Many owners of false fireplaces love to decorate niches with candles of different heights. It looks beautiful, stylish, and gives a real live fire.
  • An excellent choice would be to install a mirror deep in the combustion chamber, on the wall. The mirror will multiply the reflections from candles or electric lighting and add mystery to the fireplace.
  • Artificial stone will help you achieve the effect of an expensive finish. It is available in a variety of color and texture options. Tiles, bas-reliefs and decorative tiles will give expressive individuality to the structure. But don’t overdo it: excessive pomp 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 they simply must allow light and glare of the “fire” to pass through.
  • It is better to decorate the firebox of an imitation fireplace with a forged metal grate. It can be bought or ordered from the workshop.

Photo gallery of artificial fireplaces

An original and laconic option - a simple niche with candles

Video: how to make a false fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands

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

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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 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, 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. Can be developed own project and draw a drawing or use ready-made circuit. Decorative fireplace absolutely safe, it can be different sizes and settle down even in the smallest room.

Kinds

The very first thing you need to do when creating artificial fireplace- this is to decide on the type of construction.

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. Limited to 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 different, 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 in this case the imitation is performed by a special electrical appliance, 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 a 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.

Imitation of flame in artificial focus is able to create a homely atmosphere in the room. Today, for this purpose, you can purchase a special electronic device that 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 allow the use of a 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 similar option Suitable for drywall only.

Another interesting solution would be to place a medium-sized lamp 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 one in a niche, which will central element the entire composition.

You can’t place live plants close to a real fire, but you can put them next to 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.

Decorative plaster is also popular when decorating. The surface is first 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 a plasterboard structure 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 instruction 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. Samu work surface prime, putty and only after all preparatory work start 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 regular in shape, use a large box from under household appliances.
  • Necessary 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.
  • Acute stationery knife cut out the firebox at the base: cut the top and side walls, then 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.
  • Cardboard can be covered with wallpaper with a brick or other pattern or glued self-adhesive film. 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.

Wooden fireplace you can make it yourself. 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 having laminated coating(chipboard) and similar materials are ideally suited for assembling a false fireplace. In this case, it is important to accurately outline the future structure and only then transfer the data to the slab. 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 when strong desire various moldings, half-columns and platbands can be glued to the wall. However, such a design will still 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 its 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 massive structures are suitable, 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 a tree. 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 funds allow, the portal can be built 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

The color scheme of a false fireplace should come from the style in which the room is designed and the overall color scheme. In general, all color scheme can be divided into shades: warm (red, orange, yellow and green), cool (blue, violet, 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, light colors make the space wider and lighter, so the hearth should either blend harmoniously with everything or have a contrasting bright color. The same option applies to a cold room.

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.

Those who own city apartments probably, somewhere in the depths of their souls, miss the crackling of firewood in their home interior. But this is not at all a reason to deny yourself such pleasure, limiting yourself to the fireplace, near which you can sit comfortably on a frosty evening.

After all decorative false fireplaces made with your own hands can bring no less comfort and warmth to your home. Especially if they are equipped with an imitation flame, as well as an electric firebox.

Note. When creating a false fireplace, you may need lumber; the website https://faneramonolit.ru/katalog-pilomaterialov/ offers the largest range at affordable prices.

Step-by-step instructions on how to make a false fireplace

This is a completely simple procedure. To make it, you will need to make a sketch, which, by the way, you can draw yourself! Any building materials will do. You can use drywall on a metal/wood frame.

Polyurethane, porcelain stoneware, tiles, MDF. You can come up with absolutely any shape for your fireplace, for example, imitate a classic hearth, or create original design, which will be complemented by other decorative elements. There are many ideas for homemade projects on this site.

Polyurethane

Most in a fast way Making your own decorative fireplace is to purchase a ready-made polyurethane portal. The thing is that today the store offers a wide range of different portals, among which choosing the right style and dimensions for your home is not at all problematic.

Electric fireplaces can be built into such a design, for which you need to know what its dimensions are (dimensions and installation). It is also important to know what the requirements are regarding ventilation as well as electrical connections.

When deciding to install a false fireplace made of polyurethane, you can use the photos of false fireplaces in our catalog, thanks to which you will certainly quickly decide on the right choice.

To make this version of the fireplace, you need a store-bought polyurethane portal, a contact type of glue, putty, finishing materials for a firebox like decorative brick.

Installation process:

  • Select the location where the false fireplace will be installed. It is advisable to install it on one of the side walls in the room, since in this way you will achieve maximum harmony. At the same time, the fireplace should not become an obstacle to movement in the room.
  • You need to think in advance whether your portal will have an electric fireplace, as well as lighting. To do this, you will need to run wires and make an outlet nearby.
  • Using wooden blocks you should make a frame. Also for a profile with a wall, plywood or gypsum board is suitable.
  • The portal should be installed. Then secure using contact glue. Carefully fill the gaps using a finishing type of putty.
  • Install an electric fireplace and finish the firebox in accordance with your preferred interior design style. If necessary, connect the backlight. If your fireplace is in a classic style, lighting with soft and warm tones. In other cases, an LED strip can be used.


Backlight

If you are not going to install an electric fireplace, decorate the back of your structure with a mirror. Place decorated logs on the bottom/fill it with stones, shells, and glass balls.

You can make a completely safe fire inside your fireplace. To do this, install candles with different shapes and height.

Decoration of the back of the fireplace

The portal can be decorated using paint, patina, gilding, or using decorative elements. The mantelpiece can be installed from wood/artificial stone.

IN finished form portals are made of polyurethane and wood. They are much more expensive, but at the same time you can find the most incredible masterpieces among them. For example, a bar can be installed inside.

Plasterboard false fireplace

If after repair work You still have a profile or plasterboard, use it! This option will not only be excellent, but also very inexpensive. And the design will fit into any type of niche/corner. It can also become an element of a real shelf composition.

For such a structure you will need: wooden beams, galvanized plasterboard profile, gypsum board trim, plywood sheets, screwdriver, jigsaw, metal carving scissors, putty, acrylic paint, brick/decorative stone.

The manufacturing process is as follows. It is important to think through a sketch of the fireplace in advance, which will indicate all the dimensions, including the joints of the frame parts. It is important to measure the room and decide where exactly the fireplace will be located. Then the required amount of material is calculated.

The frame is made from a profile, its elements are connected to each other with self-tapping screws. The profile is cut with a hacksaw/scissors. In order for all elements to be as stable as possible, they should be connected by transverse types of jumpers. If your structure is too large, then its frame should be attached to the floor and walls. After all, if it is heavy, or simply narrow, the fireplace will be completely unstable. The gypsum board should be cut out in accordance with the sketch, then tried on, trimmed if necessary and secured using black knee screws directly to the profile. The self-tapping caps should be slightly deepened so that puttying will not be problematic in the future. GCR is quite easy to cut with a knife.

Then the sheets are screwed to the frame. The joints and fastening points should be puttied and leveled using putty intended for interior works, in two layers. The corners should be reinforced with paint mesh.

Then you should putty the edges with the gypsum board joints. Level the surfaces on the sheets; if necessary, use putty. The structure needs to be painted. Also, for finishing you need to use other materials, such as artificial stone, tiles, stucco. You need to glue it with a special glue, which is diluted strictly according to the instructions.

The firebox is being decorated brickwork, or a mirror is installed on the rear wall of the structure.

You can also install candles inside the firebox, or install an imitation of a hearth with lighting.

A false fireplace is a completely safe design that can be installed even in children's rooms. At the same time, you can use the mantelpiece as a stand for photo frames, toys and other things.


Photos of the best design options for false fireplaces in the interior

Pending New Year's magic I want to transform my home, add comfort and a festive mood. I remember European Christmas tales and films, where the interior always includes a fireplace with fir branches and red balls.

Do you think that installing a decorative fireplace on the eve of the gift boom is an unaffordable waste? Then make a fireplace out of boxes. Yes, exactly one of those that should have been thrown away a long time ago, but somehow the hands did not rise.

At the same time, empty out the pantry for the new year!

Like any other home craft, building a fireplace starts with planning. This stage may seem unnecessary and boring when an idea is already growing in your head and you want to quickly bring it into reality. But it is mandatory. Without the right sketch, “building” a fireplace will take a lot of time and effort, and the result may be disappointing.

At the planning stage we do the following:

  • we carefully select a place for the decorative element, since it is undesirable to move the finished structure;
  • we determine the style and predominant colors in the interior: a decorative fireplace should fit harmoniously into the decor, and not stand out with its absurdity;
  • we collect “construction” material (any cardboard boxes will do) and select the appropriate shape and size;
  • We make a drawing of the desired design with a detailed indication of all dimensions;
  • we select a method of decorative finishing and prepare a sketch of the fireplace in color (very often what we draw in our imagination turns out to be far from ideal, but on paper all the flaws will be immediately visible).

When choosing a decoration method, we recommend visiting a hardware store. If you haven’t done renovations for a long time, you will be surprised how many new materials and mixtures have appeared on the market. Perhaps such a walk will prompt original idea painting or coating with imitation material.

Don’t rush to simplify everything as much as possible, because the manufacturing process itself is already quite simple. You need to pay enough attention to decorating the structure. Otherwise, you will get a craft at the level school lesson labor that will not deceive or surprise anyone.

What will you need?

The easiest design to make comes from a large-diagonal TV box. Small boxes, for example from small household appliances or shoes, will need to be glued together and remade to size.

Packaging for large household appliances (refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers and washing machines) it is better to disassemble it into cardboard sheets and form a box for the fireplace from scratch.

To create a fireplace, in addition to cardboard boxes, you may need:

  • a piece of drywall or foam for the mantelpiece;
  • a roll of white paper for pasting;
  • masking tape;
  • stationery tape;
  • Double-sided tape;
  • long ruler, tape measure and pencil;
  • sponge, wide brush and two small ones;
  • scissors and stationery knife;
  • PVA glue (for gluing cardboard);
  • polymer glue (for attaching decor);
  • water emulsion for priming (the background can be white or with the addition of color);
  • acrylic paint for painting parts;
  • finishing materials (liquid wallpaper, putty, plaster, varnishes);
  • decorative elements (New Year's decor, ceiling plinth, decorative stucco molding, colored paper and etc.).

This list is not dogma. It can be changed and supplemented depending on the specific project. Make your list and prepare all the materials and tools according to it in advance so that you don’t get distracted or irritated while creating.

Get inspired: the best ideas

If you are seriously considering making a fireplace from boxes or sheets of cardboard with your own hands, then the ideas we have selected will help you understand what variations are possible and be inspired to create your own masterpiece.

A fireplace in the shape of the letter “P” without a base is easy to make. Imitation of brickwork made of red paper bricks or wallpaper corresponds to the New Year theme.

Red brick fireplace and green spruce represent the classic holiday colors.

To create the desired effect, you can glue an image of burning logs to the inner wall of the fireplace. Such fairytale version can be used as a prop for children's matinee or for a home performance.

The image of the fire inside the fireplace can be more realistic, especially if you find a 3D format. If for pasting you take not individual bricks, but wallpaper or a special blank for brickwork, then it will turn out even more interesting. But here you need even angles and the correct shape.

You can also paint bricks on the surface. It will take more time, but it will look more believable. You can put rolled paper or thin cardboard in the firebox.

The use of plaster followed by the application of masonry figures turns a lightweight cardboard structure into a solid stone structure. The white color of marble will fit perfectly into the interior of a bedroom with pastel colors.

An excellent place for a fireplace is the wall between the windows in the spacious living room of a private house. The option with a chimney looks impressive in a large room.

For a fireplace in an aristocratic style, decorative elements made of polystyrene foam (patterns, strips) and a ceiling molding are well suited for a white massive stone.

They are glued with polymer glue onto a finished, but not painted, structure. It is important to maintain symmetry.

Instead of wrapping boxes with white paper, you can use cloth wrapping a certain color. Feel free to involve children in the process: joint crafts strengthen relationships and develop imagination.

An excellent option for a small fireplace. It is more stable, so it can be placed not only against the wall. It will perfectly decorate the hallway. You can put a bunch of twigs from the park in the firebox, and to imitate a fire, cut out a flame from colored paper or put short LED garlands (possibly with a flickering effect). The presence of dim light from the fireplace will fill the apartment with comfort and warmth.

If space allows, you can install a large false fireplace the height of a man. The mantelpiece can be decorated with themed figurines and a miniature Christmas tree. We leave a cabinet in place of the firebox - the size of the fireplace allows this. A bowl of sweets will replace the attraction of the flickering fire.

If the apartment does not have a free wall for a fireplace, then you can use the idea corner design. Its creation is not particularly difficult, but here Special attention is given to geometric proportions. A harmonious solution would be a right isosceles triangle at the base of a triangular prism.

To create a festive atmosphere in a cozy corner, light a few tea candles in the firebox and place decor or tangerines on the shelf.

New Year is the most fabulous holiday and it should be celebrated surrounded by magic. Create magic for yourself and your loved ones from available materials for three free evenings.

Master class: mini-fireplace from one box

Sometimes you want to festively decorate not only your home, but also your office or your workplace. In this case, it is enough to make a mini-fireplace that can be placed on the windowsill, open shelf or desk.

For the craft you will need:

  • 1 medium size box;
  • 3 small elongated boxes;
  • glue gun or regular PVA glue;
  • a piece of cardboard for the mantelpiece;
  • a piece of wallpaper with brickwork or self-adhesive oilcloth;
  • white water-based paint;
  • decor (fir branches, garlands, candles);
  • scissors and pencil.

We present step-by-step manufacturing instructions:

At the bottom of the box we glue all the doors. On the front side we bend one long flap (it will serve as the protruding base of the fireplace), and glue the other to the two short flaps.

We place small boxes around the perimeter of the resulting window and make markings with a pencil.

Using the markings made, we expand the window, cutting off the excess cardboard with scissors. Then we glue the boxes.

We cut out decorative elements from cut cardboard (you can come up with something original). We glue the blanks and planks onto the fireplace.

We glue the cardboard mantelpiece; it should protrude 4-5 cm, forming a canopy. We paint the craft with white paint in several layers. It is advisable to paint on all sides.

We fix the decor made of plastic or metal with polymer glue. On the inner wall and on the protruding bent base, glue a piece of wallpaper cut to size.

We are completing the registration New Year's decor and candles.

Master class: fireplace with arch-shaped cutout

An easy way to make a homemade fireplace from two old boxes.

You will need:

  • 2 large boxes of the same size;
  • stationery tape;
  • knife and scissors;
  • sheet of cardboard;
  • gray wrapping paper;
  • brick color paint;
  • sponge for applying paint;
  • decor for decorating and simulating fire in the firebox.

And now the whole process step by step:

We take two old boxes and connect them to make a large box. Carefully tape all joints and seams with tape.

We make a cornice for the fireplace from cardboard.

We cut out an arch in the box (it is better to make the necessary markings first). Wrap the box and cornice with wrapping paper. We cut out a window in the place of the arch and glue the edges of the paper.

We glue the cornice with tape.

Paint over interior walls fireplace with black spray paint (this is done outside). We dilute the paint of the desired shade for applying the bricks. Using a sponge, apply bricks to the surface and leave to dry.

Firewood and candles on a black background create a special atmosphere.

Master class: corner fireplace made of cardboard sheets with a chimney

One of the options for a corner fireplace was presented above. Making it from a cardboard box is not difficult. The design made from sheets of cardboard with a chimney is more complex and interesting.

First you need to prepare:

  • cardboard sheets;
  • tape measure and long ruler;
  • pencil, scissors and stationery knife;
  • glue gun;
  • paint white and red.

When all materials and tools are prepared, you can begin to work. In this project, it is very important to draw up a preliminary drawing and take all measurements. It is more convenient to immediately cut the necessary workpieces. And in order not to get confused, sign the sizes on them. Then all that remains is to assemble the constructor.

Detailed manufacturing process:

We cut out triangular bases with a rounded edge. You will need 4 blanks to create robust construction. We glue a border from pieces of cardboard to one of the blanks. Inside the resulting box we create stiffening ribs.

We close the structure with a second blank and get a solid base for the fireplace. We do the top in the same way.

For reliability, we secure the joints with masking tape. We glue the resulting parts to the side panels.

We install a panel inside the fireplace to close the corner. We install planks on the sides and form a wide “wall” with stiffening ribs. We cover the finished structure with primer and white paint.

We cut blanks from cardboard to decorate the fireplace inside and outside. Elements for interior design make it wider and shorter and paint it in pink color. It is better to make external elements narrower and longer; they are painted red, creating contrast. We cover the fireplace with blanks inside and outside.

Let's start making a chimney with stiffeners. Glue a single sheet of cardboard onto the front side. We paint the chimney with white paint and create an imitation of wood.

We fix the chimney and decorate it with New Year's decor.

You want to return to a cozy home again and again. This article will discuss how to improve your interior using a fake fireplace. About a fireplace that anyone can build with a little effort.

The fireplace will fit perfectly into the interior of any room, will add an additional atmosphere of comfort and will be a source of pride for its creator. Making your own home fireplace is easy, you’ll tell your spellbound guests and household members.

You don't have to be professional builder to make a dummy that is visually close to the original. But the matter requires careful preparation, desire and capital investment.

Preparation

First, let's decide on the room in which the fake fireplace will be located. If this is a room in a private house, then you can construct a fireplace from brick. For a city multi-storey apartment, such a design will be heavy. We will talk about fireplace replicas made from plasterboard, plywood, stone, brick, foam plastic and cardboard. The last two materials require minimal costs for tools and materials. But the rest of the selected materials are more durable, look more impressive and richer.

Manufacturing process

Step-by-step instructions will help you easily plan the construction of a fake home hearth in your apartment.

Location

First, choose a place for decoration. Considering that the flame in a false fireplace is fake or very weak, you should not place the fireplace opposite a window if you plan to light it during the day - it will be hard to see. Any location is suitable for evening and night gatherings. Consider a comfortable corner around your structure. A soft carpet and beautiful furniture will nobly complement the fireplace and add warmth and warmth to the whole room.

Product design

Choose a design for a dummy fireplace so that it fits harmoniously into the interior of the room. It is important to choose the right size not only the appearance, but also the size of the fireplace. Then you need to decide what to put inside your dummy.

If one of the functions of your fireplace is to heat the apartment, then take care of the outlet near the structure. You will also need access to electricity if you install a plasma TV that simulates fire on the screen.

Hearth drawing

Think over a drawing of the fireplace. The outcome of your work depends on a properly constructed foundation. Take into account the features and dimensions of the room. After that, feel free to go to the store to purchase suitable materials in the right quantity.

Purchase of materials for construction

We decide what we will make the hearth frame from. It could be metallic profile or wooden slats. Will the fireplace be static and attached to the wall, or portable?

Drywall, foam or brick? When the main material you use is stone or tile, the frame needs to be made more durable.

We select fastening tools (screws, glue, etc.) and decorative elements.

Drywall is easy to process and affordable. For beginners in the fireplace business - just right. The composition includes ordinary cardboard impregnated with a special substance. Fire resistance is the main advantage of the material. Also decisive role when choosing it, resistance to moisture and temperature changes play a role. But drywall cannot withstand heavy loads.

Plywood is also easy to process and affordable. Environmentally cleaner natural product. If you install a fireplace in the bathroom, kitchen or any other room where there is dampness, remember: plywood does not like moisture.

Constructions made of polystyrene foam and cardboard are the simplest to build. It is possible to make a false fireplace from them using glue and tape. The main thing is to make the drawing correctly. Please note that such a fireplace is extremely short-lived.

Stone and brick materials are heavy, so before installation, make sure that the product will not collapse the ceiling. These materials do not require a frame, but be sure to make a drawing of a decorative hearth in order to purchase required quantity quite expensive material and make sure that the laying process is correct.

All you have to do is purchase the necessary tools that you don’t have. Depending on the materials chosen, you may need:

  1. Metal profile or wooden slats;
  2. Screwdriver (nails do not fit tightly);
  3. Glue (when the fireplace is made of foam or cardboard);
  4. Hammer;
  5. Hacksaw for cutting;
  6. Brushes, spatula, putty

Or it could be tile, mosaic, stone, wallpaper, wood, etc. There is only your discretion and possibilities.

To make sure the product turns out perfect, get a level for leveling.

Assembly

We cut out the parts from the selected material and secure them with screws (or glue). Proceed carefully and follow safety precautions.

Decor

Based on the chosen interior solution, start creating. This is perhaps the most interesting part of the process of creating a fireplace dummy.

In shops building materials you will be immersed in diversity finished materials, which will make the fireplace elegant and unique. Starting from putty that looks like leather, stone or wood, ending with ready-made decorative cuttings made of foam or plasterboard. Budget option Can be wallpaper with any suitable pattern or self-adhesive paper.

If you know how to draw, you can use paint to create any design that comes to mind. And by adapting your household to the business, you will create a family heirloom.

Fire in the home

To heat the room, consider options such as an electric fireplace or convector. If you follow the technique recommendations fire safety, it is not prohibited to decorate the fireplace product with artificial or real firewood.

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