Source of Warmth
Winters in Germany can be long and cold. One hurries with hunched shoulders through the biting cold to flee into the cozy warmth of the indoors where one can curl up under a wool blanket, a cup of hot tea in hand, in front of a crackling fire. Originally just a simple way to heat living quarters and to prepare food, the fireplace has evolved through history and all stylistic epochs to become a prestigious element of decor in grand homes.
Undivided attention (right): Closed fireplaces like in Düsseldorf’s Haus Hardenberg need no base plate and don’t get in the way of artfully laid parquet floors. The Portuguese limestone recedes elegantly into the background, allowing one to lose oneself wholly in the beautiful shapes of the dancing fire.
Lavish fireplace surrounds and mantels made of natural stone or decorative elements, finely ornamented and in ever more extravagant finishes, have transformed the essential home fire source to an eye-catching element of elegant interiors. Whether minimalist or richly ornamented, made of premium natural stone and marble, they are an expression of a sophisticated way of life. For every interior of RALF SCHMITZ’s luxury developments, there is a matching fireplace. Stylish on the outside and efficient on the inside, they’re as effective as they are beautiful.
The fireplace in Berlin’s EISENZAHN 1 development is a prime example of “less is more”. Italian Persiano limestone in an off-white hue stands in subtlest contrast to its surroundings, yet still blends into the interior. Paired with a hearth made of blackened metal, it is an elegant basis for creating a comforting source of warmth and relaxation.
When architecture tells a story: In the landmarked “Landhaus Pinn”, the historical fireplace surround from 1923 was painstakingly preserved and restored during the remodeling of the valuable old home and now shines in ways both old and new. The classic fireplace melds stylistic elements of rustic country style with the flamboyance of Berlin in the Roaring Twenties.
Wide as can be: The “black beauty” of Port Black marble in Hamburg’s Haus Bahren elevates the cozy sitting area with its Chesterfield chairs and opulent mirror. Despite the dark surround, the fireplace isn’t massive or heavy. It was designed to be low and wide – which is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
