Embracing Minimalist Warmth
A guide to simple living with an electric fireplace
Discover the perfect solution for achieving a cozy feel in your home, even with limitations on venting or gas hookups. In our primary bedroom and lower level, we opted for an electric fireplace, not as an unconventional choice, but as a practical one. Due to restrictions on venting and gas connectivity, an electric fireplace emerged as the ideal addition to our space.
Our collaboration with Ambe Fireplaces showcases how this functional and beautiful piece of architecture can transform a room, embodying the Swedish concept of 'mys' or coziness while adhering to a minimalist aesthetic. The key advantage lies in its flexibility—electric fireplaces can be added anywhere there's a power source. This makes them a versatile option for those seeking warmth and ambiance without the constraints of venting or gas infrastructure.
Join us in exploring the before and after images, witnessing the process of incorporating an electric fireplace into our home. Beyond the visual appeal, this choice aligns with our commitment to mindful living and offers a solution for anyone facing similar limitations.
Explore the energy-efficient benefits, the allure of 'mys,' and the simplicity that electric fireplaces bring to our space. Follow along as we share insights into making deliberate and practical choices for a cozy home environment.
Here lies the “before” situation. A large blank canvas, just waiting for a transformation.
In our home, my husband, with his exceptional skills honed from framing houses during college, is usually the DIY maestro. Can I brag and say he graduated debt free and gained an incredible skill?
However, during the time we tackled the fireplace project, his schedule was exceptionally busy. In light of this, we enlisted local assistance.
The process began with a combination of wood and steel framing to create the fireplace enclosure. Once the structural framework was in place, the installation was a breeze—we simply set the fireplace in and plugged it into an outlet. No need for venting or gas lines. The next steps involved sheetrock, taping, and mud application.
Steel frame (wood not shown here) and then fireplace inserted and sheet rocked.
For our fireplace, we opted for the Ambe Multi 49 bay to achieve a modern aesthetic. Given that the fire is simulated, the realistic flame appearance is created using advanced projected light technology. The fireplace features three distinct lights: lower light, upper light, and flame light, each offering a range of color options.
To achieve the most natural look, we made the decision to disconnect the upper light (shining down) and lower light (beneath the rocks). This leaves us with the fire light, which we prefer to keep in its natural orange hue.
Additionally, our fireplace is equipped with a fan that produces and circulates heat. The timer option has become a favorite feature, especially when getting ready for bed. I set the timer, and by the time I hop into bed, the room is comfortably warm. A few hours later, it automatically shuts off, ensuring a cozy atmosphere while we're fast asleep.
Side view when fireplace is shut off.
Daytime vs. Evening
For those who have been following my journey, you're aware of my preference for wood burning over gas and electric options. However, my deep appreciation for cozy spaces has led me to recognize the value of electric fireplaces, especially when traditional choices are not viable. Their versatility and ability to create a warm ambiance make them a great alternative in certain situations.
Let’s take a more detailed look at the design, and then I will give you all the links for our bedroom I know you have been asking for!
The rug I ordered is actually on backorder, so going without for awhile- but I will link it below
Shop Our Bedroom
All of our bedding, lighting, nightstands, rug can be found HERE.
Similar Wooden Spindle Beds (ours is no longer sold), multiple price ranges // can be found HERE.
Our very popular single taper candle holder, bentwood stools, the sheepskin bolster pillow, and a favorite book on simple living HERE.
The white basket and sheepskin inside of it are vintage finds. (I encourage a few in every space).
I am so very thankful for each and everyone of you. I am reminded daily that I “get” to stay home with my children because of your support and love of simplistic and slow living, and minimal-ish Scandinavian based design. Thank you for being here.
To stay awhile more and read about our lower level electric fireplace you can follow this link.