we love built-ins!!!
We are going to show you some of our favorite built-in firewood storage niches and discuss the proper way of bringing in firewood indoors.
Our modern farmhouse (modern rustic villa):
You may have noticed in our 2021 Spring and Fall model homes that we have created a built-in firewood storage to stack wood by the fireplaces. We love this look because it brings in a natural element, which really goes with any style of home. Our Spring model was a modern farm house and it was a MUST to bring in the much needed rustic element.
Symmetrical built-ins on both sides of the fireplace:
With this fireplace, the homeowner really wanted the fireplace to be symmetrical. It was actually really hard to find examples of built-in firewood storage on both sides of the fireplace. We finally came across an article in Architectural Digest of Patrick Dempsey's Malibu house designed by Frank O. Gehry.
It was the perfect inspiration for the fireplace we wanted to build. It is always great to get inspiration photos to show the builder and architect when building or renovating a home. It doesn't have to be exactly what you want, but it is a great jumping off point.
Our Spring model was open to the dining and kitchen, with large rustic beams diving the spaces. The peak vault in the open area ran from the fireplace all the way to the kitchen. It was the perfect opportunity to highlight the beautiful vault in the top built-in niches around the fireplace. The stacked wood, beams and rustic mantle are mirrored on the the other end of the space in the kitchen with the rustic mantle over the stove and the floating shelves.
our bold modern estate:
In our Fall model, it was a little unexpected to bring in rustic touches of stacked wood, because the home was bold and modern. But, we actually love how the natural elements play off the modern home design. It brings warmth and contrast into the space, which otherwise would have been too gray and cold. We of course still wanted to keep it modern with clean lines. The 2 story fireplace has a black stucco finish. The built-in niche for the firewood is only on one side to give asymmetry and interest. The floating white oak bench is sleek and ties in with the stacked firewood.
Tying in wood elements:
We actually loved the way the warm wood tones played off the modern elements in the home, that we added it to a few more places. The front entry has a custom wood slat wall feature and white oak beams down the hallway. All the wood touches in the space were custom stained to be the same tone. Bringing in too many wood tones would have overwhelmed the space and would have been too rustic. We also wanted the beams, wood wall feature and floating bench to all have the same clean lines. It turned out perfect!
How to properly season firewood:
Now, in order to bring in these natural elements, we need to be careful that we are not bringing in unwanted bugs and insects.
Well seasoned dry wood will have no scent, no moisture and no sap. Properly seasoned wood has a moisture content of less than 20 percent, which helps prevent mold as well. Always inspect logs before bringing them indoors.
Always use a reputable firewood dealer in your area. If you do buy from a supermarket or gas station you will most likely need to dry it out. It could take up to a year or two to properly dry out the wood. That is why going through a professional is the way to go!
Here are some other inspiration fireplaces that we loved:
This is a collection of many different style homes with built-in firewood niches. It's a design element that can be incorporated into any home!
