Creating ambience with fireplace lighting

There’s no doubt that one of the best parts about owning a fireplace is its warming glow. 

With beautiful reds, oranges and yellows, its cosy flames are the perfect complement to a winter night in. Even electric fireplaces (that use LED technology to simulate flame patterns) offer this authentic feeling. But it doesn’t have to stop there. 

Homeowners can use plenty of techniques to create a light scheme, one where your fireplace is always the centre of attention. With Fires2U’s fireplace lighting ideas, you can get the most out of your appliance: all it takes is a few simple tricks! 

How do you illuminate a fireplace? 

When your fireplace is already so dazzling, how can you improve it? 

Well, first, there’s the fire itself. You need to learn everything you can about its controls. High-quality gas fires usually have a high-flame display and low gas use (like the DRU Passo Eco Wave Balanced Flue Stove). 

You can also choose a model like the Crystal Boston Wide HE High-Efficiency Hole in the Wall gas fire, which is well-known for having one of the most impressive flame patterns on the market. 

If you’re more interested in wood-burning stoves, DEFRA-approved models like the Portway Arundel Multifuel Stove have large viewing windows, perfect for maximising the light of your flames! 

Electric fireplaces, on the other hand, afford more customizability. Fires like the Flamerite Luma 1360 electric suite come with high-tech LED technology. 

1. Experiment with your fire’s LED technology 

Ambience is all about creating an atmosphere. 

For homes with gas fires and wood-burning stoves, the atmosphere of authentic flames is usually associated with cosiness, warmth and the colder seasons. If you’re looking for something more futuristic, electric fires with LED technology are ideal. 

Models like the Flamerite Glazer 1000 inset electric fire come with Radia Flame 3D technology, which uses LED lights to simulate flickering flames with a deep fuel reflection. But wait, there’s more! 

They also feature Nitra Flame 7, a function that allows you to customise your flames with an exciting selection of blue, purple, and green tones. Scroll through these unusual flame effects via Flamerite's Fire eControl app. 

2. Cast light with pendant fixtures 

Draw eyes towards your fire with a pendant light suspended from the ceiling. Hanging a pendant light directly above the fireplace can draw attention to this focal point, even when the fire isn't lit. 

Just make sure that the light is installed at a safe distance to prevent heat damage! Or, position it more to the side to create a different lighting zone: with this trick, you can create an even more intricate lighting plan. 

3. Wall lights on the chimney breast 

Diffuse the glow of your fireplace upwards with twin wall lights installed on the chimney breast. 

For period properties with wood-burning stoves, purchase traditional sconces in complementary colours. If you have more of a loft-style space, industrial designs may be a better fit. Please note: make sure your HETAS installer checks the stove's installation and the safe distance to install anything above it.

4. Use ambient lighting around the fireplace 

You don’t have to focus all of your energy around the fireplace. With a stove from industry-leading brands like Elgin & Hall or Gallery Fireplaces, your fireplace area will already be gleaming! 

Why not focus on other areas of the room, like any dark corners or walls? Invest in dainty table lamps or floor lamps to make sure every corner feels cosy. 

5. Light up the inside of your inglenook

The inglenook is a recess or alcove in your wall where your fireplace is positioned. If yours is particularly large, it can be a great place to install heat-resistant light sources. For a subtle touch, use recessed downlights!

These lights can be directed to highlight specific areas, such as the hearth or the area directly underneath the mantel. 

Homeowners should always make sure the bulbs are suitable for higher temperatures and positioned at a safe distance from heat sources as stated in the installation of the product. 

6. LED strip lights 

Some appliances, like the Onyx Avanti 110RW Electric Fire, even come with an independent mood lighting system! 

For an additional fee, you can purchase up to 6 metres of flexible LED strips, suitable for placing around your TV, shelves, or anywhere else you want! They’re an affordable way to illuminate your lounge. 

Shop for fires with Fires2U today! 

Ramp up to autumn and winter the right way with Fires2U. 

With our top-quality selection of fireplaces, you can upgrade your home heating appliance to one of the market’s best models. We’ve got high-efficiency gas fires from Flavel, 100% efficient electric stoves from Celsi and DEFRA-approved stoves from Portway. 

Get yours today!