Hearth Sweet Home

Nothing can change the atmosphere in a room like a fireplace," says Richard Ruvin of Ruvin Bros. Artisans and Trades, a custom builder in Wisconsin. "The fireplace is back in a big way."

• Kitchen: We are being asked to incorporate more fireplaces within the kitchen spaces. They tend to be a bit smaller, and elevated beyond the typical raised hearth.
• Master Bedroom: With the improved look and feel of gas log sets, a fire in the master bedroom is safe and effortless.
• Master Bath: The combination of a soothing bath, a glass of wine, a good book, and the warmth of a fire in the nearby fireplace is guaranteed to unwind the body and quiet the soul.
• Dining Room: We have found that a fireplace somehow enhances any social gathering. What location is more social than the dining room?
• Entry: We have been introducing large fireplaces into the foyer, directly across from the front door. On a cold winter day, there is no better way to say "welcome."
• Screen Porch: Simply adding a fireplace to your screen porch extends the season by as much a four additional months. These fireplaces tend to be very large to throw off as much heat as possible.
• Lower Level: Adding a fireplace to an existing chimney is an inexpensive way to add character and charm to a lower level billiard or recreation room.

"Fireplaces, and their mantles and surrounds add unique personality to each room," Ruvin remarks. With the myriad of materials available, a style that compliments the room can be achieved.