Cast iron bedroom fireplaces were popular in the Victorian and Edwardian eras, before central heating was invented. In those days, each living room and bedroom had a fireplace for the purpose of keeping warm in winter. Bedroom fireplaces were usually much smaller than the living room fireplace, but they were very attractive and often featured ornate patterning. Cast iron bedroom fires were of the combination variety, which meant the fire was one unit of cast iron, featuring the insert, fireback, grate and bars.
Beautiful examples of cast iron bedroom fireplaces can still be seen today in many period homes – many families move home and are pleasantly surprised to discover lovely cast iron fireplaces hidden behind ply board or plaster. Such fires are in big demand today, and are usually used as a decorative feature in a bedroom, rather than a functional piece – fireplaces are no longer needed in homes with modern central heating.
These cast iron bedroom fires were extremely common and today they are very easy to get hold of. The Antique Fireplace Company, based in Shropshire, specialises in reclaimed Victorian and Edwardian fireplaces and fully restores them before selling. One on offer is a pretty Victorian bedroom fire, in excellent condition and featuring attractive decoration. Better still, this is one of a matching pair – perfect if you plan to put fireplaces in more than one bedroom. Also available is an Edwardian bedroom fireplace, with a stunning but simple decoration, also one of a pair.
As cast iron was mass manufactured in the Victorian era, combination bedroom fireplaces are widely available today. Expect to pay £300 upwards for a refurbished fire, but a good place to get one more cheaply is a salvage yard – cast iron bedroom fires needing restoration will be considerably cheaper than those sold in a restored condition. Most cast iron bedroom fires can be used with solid fuel, should the need arise – they may even be used with certain gas fires.
Cast iron bedroom fireplaces really do make a lovely feature in any bedroom, creating a homely, cosy atmosphere. Fill the grate with dried flowers for that cottage look, or fill with candles for a romantic ambience in the evenings – the choice is yours.
