If you prefer a warm, inviting atmosphere in your house but have yet to find the perfect lighting for your fireplace, never fear. You don’t need any special experience or expertise to create an unforgettable ambiance in your abode – with a few tips and tricks for lighting for fireplaces ideas; you’ll be able to craft the beautiful look of your dreams in no time!
Whether you want something subtle and traditional that sets off the natural beauty of the wood grain or something modern that casts unique patterns on the walls around it, this blog post will walk you through how to choose and install lights near fireplaces so they look as spectacular as they should!
10 Awesome Lighting for Fireplaces Ideas
For those looking to add some sparkle and pizzazz to their fireplace, lighting is the perfect way to accomplish this. Lighting can be used in a variety of ways to create a unique atmosphere and accentuate the natural beauty of the wood grain on your mantelpiece.
There are a wide variety of lighting options available, ranging from subtle and traditional to modern and bold. Here are 15 creative lighting ideas for fireplaces that will help you find the perfect look for your home.
1. Recessed lights –
Recessed lights provide an unobtrusive option for adding light around the fireplace while also highlighting surrounding architectural features. These can be great for creating an even ambient glow or illuminating specific areas, such as artwork or photographs displayed on shelves above the mantelpiece.
PROS
Recessed lights can be used to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. They provide soft light that won’t overwhelm the room or take away from the main focus of the fireplace.
As recessed lights are discreetly placed within the walls, they don’t take up much space and can be used to highlight architectural features or artwork in the room.
Recessed lighting is generally low voltage and can provide good energy efficiency since it won’t generate a lot of heat as traditional light bulbs do.
With recessed lighting, you have the option to choose between different types of bulbs (LED, halogen, etc.) that can be dimmed or adjusted according to your needs.
Installation is relatively simple and cost-effective compared to other lighting options for fireplaces.
CONS
It can be tricky to locate the right spot for the recessed lights as they should not be too close to flammable materials such as wood or fabrics.
If the area around the recessed lighting is not properly insulated, it could lead to a loss of heat, resulting in higher energy costs.
If not installed correctly, recessed lighting can cause shadows in the room.
It can be difficult to clean or replace a bulb if it is placed too far away from an access point.
If you decide to install recessed lights yourself, make sure to follow safety guidelines and check with local building codes before proceeding.
2. Track lighting –
Track lighting is another great option for providing focused illumination on particular areas around the fireplace without overwhelming the space with too much light. This type of lighting is particularly effective when hung from multiple points along one side of the fireplace, allowing you to adjust it depending on which area you would like illuminated most prominently.
PROS
Allows you to direct the light in a specific area.
Gives flexibility when designing the look of your fireplace.
Can be adjusted easily to create different lighting effects.
Can provide a modern, contemporary look for your fireplace.
CONS
It may be difficult to access behind or inside the track if repairs are needed.
Can be expensive to install and may require an experienced electrician.
It can be difficult to clean the fixtures due to their complexity.
The lights may not match other lighting fixtures in the room, which could create a clash in aesthetics.
3. String lights –
String lights are a fun, playful option for highlighting details around your fireplace such as photos and art pieces, as well as lending a cozy feel to any space. A single strand hung over your mantelpiece can be used to create depth and interest in an otherwise dull corner, while multiple strands woven together can be used to brighten up an entire wall surrounding your fireplace.
PROS
Easy to install and can be done without the help of an electrician.
They offer a unique, whimsical lighting option for your fireplace.
Can be easily rearranged to create different lighting displays.
Multiple strands can be used to brighten larger spaces with more light.
CONS
Not suitable for high-heat areas as the heat may melt or damage the plastic/vinyl construction of the lights.
String lights generally provide less powerful lighting than other options, such as recessed or track lighting, so they may not be suitable for larger spaces.
It Can look cluttered if too many strands are used in small areas.
4. Sconces –
Sconces offer an elegant solution for adding light around your fireplace while also providing extra storage space by acting as decorative shelves on either side of your mantelpiece.
You can use them both functionally and decoratively by displaying candles or other objects on them or simply leaving them empty to create a more minimalist look that draws attention to other features like stonework or tiling around the hearth area instead.
PROS
Can provide both functional and decorative lighting in your fireplace area.
Provides ample light for larger spaces that may need more powerful lighting than a single strand of string lights.
A great way to draw attention to the mantelpiece or surrounding areas like stonework and tiling.
Adds extra storage space on either side of the mantelpiece.
CONS
Requires installation by an electrician and/or builder to ensure safety.
Not suitable for smaller spaces as they can make a room feel cluttered or cramped.
It Can be expensive depending on the type and style of the sconce.
They May require more maintenance than other lighting options, such as cleaning and dusting to keep them looking their best.
5. Lanterns –
Lanterns make great decorative elements when placed near fireplaces because they come in all shapes, sizes, and materials so you’re sure to find something that suits your personal style and existing décor perfectly!
They give off a soft light, which makes them great for setting an intimate mood without being too overwhelming in brighter spaces such as living rooms or dining rooms, where you often want ambient rather than direct light sources.
PROS
Can be used to set a variety of moods depending on the size, shape, and material of the lantern.
Adds a decorative touch to any space without taking up too much room.
Offers soft lighting for ambient rather than direct light sources in brighter spaces like living rooms or dining rooms.
Can be easily switched out with different styles of lanterns to change up the look of the room as needed.
Ideal for homes that don’t have a built-in lighting system around their fireplaces.
CONS
Requires extra furniture or décor to be placed around the lanterns in order to really make them stand out.
It Can be difficult to find the perfect size, shape, and material of lanterns to fit all spaces.
Requires more upkeep due to dirt and dust that can accumulate on the surface of the lantern over time.
It Can be pricey depending on the style and materials used for the lanterns.
Necessitates the use of candles or other light sources, which can be a fire hazard if not used properly.
6. Strip lights –
Strip lights are typically mounted underneath shelves above the fireplace and serve two purposes; illuminating artwork or photographs displayed on top of these shelves while also providing general background lighting throughout the room they’re installed in.
They’re especially useful in larger spaces where more focused task lighting might not be necessary but where evenly spread out illumination is still desired.
PROS
They provide an even spread of light without creating too much brightness in any one area.
Strip lights are often cost-effective and easily installed.
The size and length of the lights can be adjusted to fit the space they’re intended for, making them highly customizable.
They are usually energy efficient and do not generate a lot of heat, which is important when placing them above fireplaces.
Strip lights come in a variety of colors and styles to match the look of any room.
CONS
Some strip lights can be difficult to install or require an electrician to do the job.
Because they are so small, it is important to make sure that all of the lights are working properly and are evenly distributed.
Strip lights may not provide enough light for larger rooms or areas with higher ceilings.
They can be difficult to replace if one of the lights goes out.
Strip lights may not be the best choice for fireplaces with more traditional or rustic designs, as they are usually associated with contemporary styles.
7. Pendant lights –
Pendant lights hang down from ceiling fixtures above fireplaces, making them ideal if you’re looking for something that adds drama without taking up too much visual real estate around the mantle itself – plus, they come in an array of styles so you’ll definitely be able to find one that fits your taste!
PROS
Pendant lights are great for adding a decorative touch to the fireplace while still providing plenty of light.
They come in a variety of styles and can be customized to fit the overall design of the room.
They can be hung at varying heights and distances from the fireplace to create different lighting effects.
Pendant lights are usually easy to install and require minimal maintenance.
Because they hang above the fire, they won’t get sooty or overheated and can be used in a wide variety of fireplace designs.
CONS
Pendant lights can be more expensive than other lighting options for fireplaces.
Depending on the type of pendant light, they may not provide as much illumination as other types of fireplace lighting.
They are not ideal for very small fireplaces since they take up a lot of space above the fireplace and can be difficult to position correctly.
Pendant lights may not be able to withstand the heat and smoke of a burning fire as well as other types of lighting fixtures.
They can be difficult to install if there is not enough space above the fireplace or if they are too heavy for the ceiling structure.
8. Chandeliers –
Chandeliers are classic choices when it comes to adding some glamourous flair to any room, but they don’t have to be limited only to traditional settings – nowadays, there are plenty of contemporary designs available too!
When hung near fireplaces, they will draw eyes upwards toward any artwork or decorations showcased above the mantelpiece rather than overpowering it with excessive amounts of light.
PROS
Chandeliers provide a unique and luxurious look to any room, particularly when placed near fireplaces.
They come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find one that fits your space perfectly.
Chandeliers are usually energy-efficient, so they won’t add much to your utility bill.
They can be hung at varying heights and distances from the fireplace, allowing you to customize the look and feel of the lighting.
Chandeliers can be used to bring a room together by tying in elements from other areas of your home, such as furniture or wall art.
CONS
Chandeliers can be expensive compared to other lighting options.
They often need professional installation for the best results, which can add to the cost.
They can be difficult to clean, depending on the material and design.
They are often too bright for some fireplaces, which can overpower the cozy atmosphere you’re trying to create.
If not properly hung, a chandelier can be a safety hazard.
9. Wall Washers-
Wallwashers provide even illumination across wider surfaces such as walls behind fireplaces, creating seamless atmospheres with no harsh shadows thanks to their low-glare lenses, ensuring every inch is illuminated evenly!
They’re also great if you want softer hues, as many models come with interchangeable color filters, so you can tailor their output exactly how you’d like.
PROS
They provide even illumination across wider surfaces without harsh shadows.
Low-glare lenses ensure every inch is illuminated evenly.
Interchangeable color filters allow you to customize the output of your lighting.
Easy-to-install and durable construction creates a lasting effect in any space.
Wallwashers are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can find one that fits your fireplace perfectly.
CONS
Can be pricier than other lighting options
May require professional installation, depending on the model
Depending on the model, you may need to replace bulbs frequently for optimal performance.
Wallwashers are typically limited in output wattage and may not be powerful enough for larger fireplaces.
10. Uplighters –
Whilst up-lighters fall into similar categories as wallwashers, these typically feature adjustable heads, making them ideal if you want more targeted beams hitting specific objects like sculptures near fireplaces – plus, their sophisticated designs will add elegance no matter what style decorating scheme you opt for.
PROS
Adjustable heads allow you to target specific objects near fireplaces with more targeted beams.
Sophisticated designs will add elegance no matter what style decorating scheme you opt for.
Uplighters can be used in combination with wallwashers for an even wider illumination effect.
Uplighters typically come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit any fireplace.
Easy-to-install and durable construction ensures your up-lighters will last for years to come.
CONS
Depending on the model, may require professional installation
Can be pricier than other lighting options
Depending on the model, you may need to replace bulbs frequently for optimal performance
Uplighters are typically limited in output wattage and may not be powerful enough for larger fireplaces.
Uplighters may require additional hardware for mounting and installation.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to add some extra ambiance to your home this holiday season, look no further than your fireplace. With a few simple changes in lighting, you can transform your fireplace into a warm and inviting focal point that will make any gathering all the more special. So try out these lighting for fireplaces ideas and see which one works best for you. And don’t forget to enjoy the holidays!
