Commercial Projects Turn To Fireplaces Used As Eye-Catching Centerpieces
Today’s commercial fireplace trends are bigger and bolder than the past decade’s modern linear fireplace. In fact, manufacturers are seeing a new market in different building categories other than just hospitality. There are more fireplaces setting the center stage in places such as multifamily and commercial office buildings, as well as sports stadiums and even medical facilities.
“A lot of companies are trying to bring their employees back into the office setting and not have everybody be remote,” says Missy Ramberg, marketing director for Acucraft. “So by adding these kind of different fireplaces or amenities, it’s an enticement for people to come back to work and experience those types of things.” As diners increasingly return, Acucraft CEO Chris Maxson says he’s seeing a lot of restaurants remodeling with fireplaces to make their spaces feel cozy, relaxing, and safe.
Currently one of the most popular trends is a commercial fireplace with open viewing areas with or without glass on multiple sides. These open-sided fireplaces are also starting to become taller with 6′ to 8′ tall flames.
“Anything that can provide an unobstructed view for people has grown in popularity, whether it’s a circular or it’s this big, four-sided glass fireplace,” Ramberg says. “[Designers] really want to add something as a focal point but not take away and make it seem like the space is smaller.”
Architects are very creative and many love to go bold and big. Today’s commercial architect is using the fireplace to create wild designs to make their spaces truly unique. In Elkhart, Indiana a 176-inch tall spinning cylindrical fire feature is surrounded by a triangle shape glass atrium in the Beacon Health & Fitness building. Designers are also using fire pits that are built in a triangle shape, L shape or three curved fireplaces that form a circle.
A cool unique fireplace in a place of business is a great way to create buzz feed through social media. People will take pictures and share them on places like Instagram and Pinterest. Fireplaces are great at creating immediate first impressions.
“Anybody who sees a fireplace, they’re naturally drawn to that, so it’s a great way to offer an amenity space, draw people in to make purchases, or bring people back to work,” says Chris Carlson co-owner of The Podium event space in Elk River, Minnesota.
