From a design stand point, fireplace feature walls can sometimes be a pain in the neck due to all the restrictions and heat regulations. Although challenging, it’s always worth it in the end. They create an architectural feel, add dimension to the room and provide the best ambiance. With today’s linear style fireplaces, long gone is the traditional wood burning unit and hearth.
What is a hearth? Commonly, hearths are known as the “bench” on the facade of the fireplace, providing a spot for one to perch and warm up. But all hearths do not have to be raised like a bench; a piece of marble or tile on the floor in front of the fireplace is also known as a hearth. Hearths provide a barrier between combustible materials (wood floors, for example) and the spark of the fire. Heaven forbid if a log rolled out of the wood burning fire on to the floor! The solid surface hearth prevented any fire damage and potential catastrophe.
 |
| Here is a wood burning fireplace with a hearth on the floor. via |
Now, although the style of fireplaces are going more streamlined and simple, what has happened to the hearth?
 |
| Floating linear fireplace with no hearth. via |
Due to the nature of this design, homeowners are forsaking the hearth for a more modern, contemporary look. Often hearths are removed and 12″- 24″ are gained in the room size. To some, those inches are precious. However, let me be the devil’s advocate; you can have the best of both worlds, provided that space is not an issue. Personally, I love to sit in front of the fireplace. It not only provides a cozy spot, but it also adds extra seating when entertaining. So maybe the hearth has a bad rep from previous traditional designs, but I think from the examples below, you will notice that hearths can actually play up the contemporary design of the feature wall.
 |
| via |
 |
| via |
 |
| via |
 |
| via |