This classic fireplace has a brick hearth and surround, topped off with a herringbone patterned wood mantel.

As you walk your dog on a chilly night you may have a wee bit of envy as the aroma of your neighbor’s fireplace wafts in the air.  If only your home had a fireplace, you would curl up with a book and your pup at your feet, or toast marshmallows with the kids.  Well, the prospect of adding a fireplace to your home is not near as complicated or expensive as you might suspect.  There are lots of options out there, so let’s find the one that suits your situation and style by reviewing what’s available.

Traditional Wood Burning Fireplace 

The Basics: This installation is possible during construction or renovation.  The fireplace needs a chimney as well as a firebox made of brick or concrete.  The fireplace will need to be cleaned and ashes removed.  Hardwood is often the best and it should be dried out over the course of the year whether you buy it or chop it yourself. 

Design Considerations: The design choices are endless including prefabricated or custom mantels made of wood, stone, tile or any combination of those.  Use a fireplace screen to prevent embers from jumping out and add some style.

Cost: Because there is construction involved, you can expect to start at about $2,000 and go up from there.

This direct vent fireplace has a crisp traditional look and can be ordered with natural gas or propane option. ($1,178)

Direct Vent Fireplace

The Basics: You can add this type of fireplace to your existing home with a moderate amount of expense.  The fireplace can vent up a traditional chimney or you can have it vent directly horizonatally through the wall or up through the roof.  It is fueled by natural gas so it is very clean burning.  If you are very handy, you may be able to install one yourself but I would recommend a professional for most people.

Design Considerations: They come with a fixed tempered glass window for safety that you cannot remove.  The radiant heat comes through but you may not like the look.  Log sets are very realistic and hide the gas jet.  They can be operated from a switch or remote control.

Cost:  The cost of the a fireplace and mantel combination will start at about $500 and go up to more than $4,000. You can also purchase the direct vent mechanism and design a custom mantel.

This modern design is fueled by ethanol; providing a smoke-free and eco-friendly fire. ($1,460)

Vent-Free Fireplaces

The Basics: These fireplaces give you a lot of options because no vent is required.  Why?  Because the heat production is low enough and the burn clean enough that it’s not necessary.  They can use propane or natural gas. 

Design Considerations: There are many styles available.  No electricity required.  They give off a bit of heat so this is not the best option for warmer climates.  Also, because of atmospheric pressure, the pilot may go out in altitudes above 4,500 feet.

Cost:  Small and simple designs start at $250 and go up from there.  You will also have to hook it up to the gas line.

A great complement to a living room with a formal design. It has a 13-function remote control including an air purifier and optional heat. ($2,199)

Electric Fireplaces

The Basics: This is a great option for people on a tight budget, apartment dwellers or those who want instant gratification.  You plug it in and you are ready to go. Take it with you when you move.

Design Considerations:  There are a variety of styles available.  Some are just designed for appearance and others are constructed with heaters. 

Cost:  There are a variety styles available starting at about $200.

Creative Solution

If you have a fireplace in an apartment or older home that is no longer functional, then there is a safe yet attractive solution that will still give you the fireplace effect.  Real Flame Gel - It comes in a can and burns clean.  It’s made from premium grade isopropyl alcohol and thickeners and one can burns for about 3 hours.  You can buy stone cast logs to get the “real” feel.  These are also perfect for warm weather climates because they don’t emit any heat. 

All of these options can also work for an outdoor application or for 2 or 3-sided fireplaces.  Many of you are super handy but for those of you who are not, it’s always smart to hire a professional to help you.  Safety should always be your top priority.  I hope you find a solution that works for your home so you can enjoy it this winter!

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This solid brass grille, with a low-luster lacquered finish, comes in many sizes and features a beautiful Gothic design.

Chilly weather has descended on Florida.  Stop laughing, 50 degrees is cold for us and that’s what it was when I was wandering around in the dark this morning!  (Is anyone else ready for the time change?)  Anyway, I actually turned on the heat just to get the house up to 70 and that’s when my mind turned to vents and the grilles that cover them.  Are you ready replace the ones in your home that have five coats of paint and louvers that won’t budge?  The problem is that many people don’t know that there is a vast selection of great grilles to choose from and that’s where I come in.  Since I always say that good design is in the details, I will show you some grilles with intricate designs and fantastic finishes that are worth a second glance.

This Resin Venetian Rope Grill is offered in 30 finishes, including a primer if you want to do your own. It would have a modern look in black or metallic silver.

This Contemporary Brass Floor Register with Louvers is available in 6 finishes and many sizes. It has a 5 year finish warranty.

This round over wood grille provides a good transition to the floor and is available in 100 wood species to match your floor.

Find the Grille of your Dreams in My Secret Database!

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We are happy to announce that the winner of the $100 Gift Certificate to Bed, Bath & Beyond is Mildred from Knoxville, Tennessee.  She was very excited to get the good news and her prize is on its way.  If you want to be the next Big Winner, then be sure to Enter our latest Giveway for a $100 gift card to The Company Store!

Many people work tirelessly on their interior decorating projects only to lose momentum when it comes to the front door.  This is an important place to focus your attention for many reasons.  It allows you to show off your taste and style before guests enter your home.  Plus, you deserve to come home to a welcoming front door!  The good news is that giving your front door a face lift is easily achieved in 3 simple steps.

1. The Door - Choose a front door that reflects the style and personality of your home and paint it or stain it in a contrasting color to make it a focal point.  My favorite colors?  Red, Black & stained finishes.
2. The Accessories- Just like any other room in the house, the accessories are the finishing touch and there are quite a few to consider:  door hardware, house numbers, door knockers, door bells, mailboxes, doormats, lighting and plants.  Since it’s a small space, try to keep finishes and styles similar.
3. A Commitment - Keep the area neat and clean.  A simple sweeping up and wiping down will usually do.  Flowers & plants are a bonus.  It brightens up the area and shows others that you take pride in your nest.

Modern Accessories

1. Stone Door Knocker from Chiasso- $98
2. Midnight Wall Sconce from Lightology - $43.20
3. Grey Fiberstone Planterfrom Smtih & Hawken - $58.99
4. Solaris mailbox  from Chiasso - $198
5. Sausalito house number 3 from Chiasso - $18 each
6. hi there doormat from Chiasso -$38

Mountain Retreat Accessories

1. 5″ Twig & Vine House Numbers from Atlas Homewares- $12.60 each
2. Post Wood Vented Mailbox from Rustic Connection- $194.95
3. Faux Brambleberry Wreath from Smith and Hawken - $99.00
4. Summer Striped Doormatfrom Smith and Hawken - $31.00
5. Panel Doorbell Button with Pinecone from Rustic Connection - $55.95
6. Sunset Ranch Outdoor Wall Light from Bellacor - $156.33

I hope you are inspired to dig in and makeover your front door.  Remember, it only takes a few details to create a warm and welcoming entrance!  You can always find what you need in My Secret Database!

~Lorrie

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Decorative glass may conjure up images of stained glass windows in churches and Victorian mansions.  And while they can be quite beautiful, this often does not translate into an architectural detail you would use in your own home.  Well, after I tell you about Stained Glass Overlay, you may change your mind.  Advances in the technology used to make glass as well as creative alternatives open up a whole new world.

Not just limited to windows, decorative glass can be used in a variety of locations throughout your home:  shower doors, front doors, room dividers or simply as a piece of art.  Windows that require privacy or those where window treatments are awkward are prime candidates for this stylish solution that allows you to keep the natural light coming in.  If you are building or renovating and would like to replace a clear window with something special then SGO can make carved glass, textured glass or create custom images if you have something specific in mind.  

Now if would like to spruce up an existing window and keep the budget lower, Stained Glass Overaly is a great alternative.  It allows you to put an overlay directly onto your existing glass to create the look of an art glass window.   They also have a product called SGO Iron Art, that gives you the look of wrought iron at a fraction of the cost.

Take a look at the incredible designs featured SGO and consider adding fantastic architectural detail to your windows and doors!

Find SGO Glass and other great Architectural Elements in My Secret Database!