EXPERT INSIGHT
Antique fireplaces Nick Durrant, owner of Nostalgia Antique Fireplaces & Interiors, offers advice on investing in this key design detail
Why should I buy an antique fireplace? By reinstating an antique fireplace in your home you are helping to preserve and restore the period character of the property, as well as that of the fireplace. As the famous quote from William Morris goes: ‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful’ – an antique fireplace is both.
What properties do they suit? Antique fireplaces aren’t just the preserve of mansions or large country homes; in the 19th century, they were the sole source of heat, and so a fireplace was installed in almost every room of a house, be it a two-up, two-down Victorian terrace or a stately home. The right choice of antique fireplace will sit well in any setting, even a contemporary home.
Which style is popular? Victorian fireplaces are the most commonly available, which is unsurprising given that the majority of period housing stock in the UK is from this era. Fire surrounds of simple form are always popular because they work well in almost any setting and don’t dictate the overall room design. Having said this, detailed tiled grates are making a resurgence as they fit well within a colourful, eclectic interior.
How can I make sure it will suit my house? First and foremost, find a fireplace that you like the look of. While it’s important to complement your home’s design, it doesn’t necessarily need to be authentic to the period in which it was built. After all, the Victorians removed and replaced Georgian fireplaces with their ‘contemporary’ designs, then 50-60 years later the Edwardians did the same. However, do consider the scale and grandeur of a fireplace – a large, elaborate design will look out of place in a humble cottage, while a small, simple one will underwhelm in a grandly appointed room.
Is it best to buy a ready-restored fireplace? I would recommend buying a professionally restored fireplace, not least because of the time and effort it takes to restore one yourself, but also from a safety aspect. A professionally restored fireplace comes with the reassurance that it is fit for purpose. If you do choose to buy an unrestored fireplace, carefully check for any damage or missing parts; replacement parts often cost more than the fireplace itself.
How much should I pay? As with any antique, fireplace prices vary depending on age, size, material and quality. Small bedroom fireplaces start from as little as £200 while a grand reception room design can easily reach five figures. Fortunately, there is huge choice of designs available in between these two price points. Bear in mind a professionally restored fireplace will be more expensive than an unrestored model. What’s your top tip for buying an antique fireplace? Find a dealer who is reputable and knowledgeable, and can advise on the most appropriate fireplace design for your home. Provenance is also important and a good dealer will be able to tell you the age and history of the fireplace, where it came from and how it has been restored. If you intend on using your fireplace as an open or gas fire, it is essential to have it fitted by a qualified installer, who will also ensure the chimney or flue meets current regulations.