Victorian Faux Marble Fireplace Surround

The Victorian Faux Marble Fireplace Surround: An Essential Guide

Fireplace surrounds are an integral part of any Victorian home, adding both style and functionality. While real marble was often used for fireplace surrounds in the Victorian era, it was also common to use faux marble, which was a less expensive alternative. Faux marble fireplace surrounds were made from a variety of materials, including wood, plaster, and composition materials, and were often painted to mimic the look of real marble.

Today, Victorian faux marble fireplace surrounds are highly sought-after by homeowners who are looking to add a touch of Victorian charm to their homes. They are available in a wide variety of styles, from simple and elegant to ornate and elaborate. Whether you are looking for a fireplace surround that will make a statement or one that will blend seamlessly into your existing décor, you are sure to find the perfect option among the many faux marble fireplace surrounds on the market.

Materials Used

Victorian faux marble fireplace surrounds were made from a variety of materials, including:

Wood
- Wood was the most common material used for faux marble fireplace surrounds. It was often carved to create the look of real marble, and then painted to mimic the desired color and veining.
Plaster
- Plaster was another popular material for faux marble fireplace surrounds. It was less expensive than wood, and it could be molded into a variety of shapes and designs.
Composition materials
- Composition materials were a type of man-made material that was often used for faux marble fireplace surrounds. These materials were made from a mixture of wood pulp, paper, and other materials. They were less expensive than wood or plaster, and they could be molded into a variety of shapes and designs.

Often, these fireplace surrounds were painted to resemble the appearance of variegated marbles. Faux marble fireplace surrounds were often painted to mimic the look of real marble, and the paint was often applied in multiple layers to create a realistic effect.

Styles

Victorian faux marble fireplace surrounds were available in a wide variety of styles, from simple and elegant to ornate and elaborate. Some of the most popular styles include:

Georgian
- Georgian fireplace surrounds are characterized by their simple, elegant lines and symmetry. They often feature a rectangular opening with a flat or slightly arched top.
Regency
- Regency fireplace surrounds are more ornate than Georgian surrounds, and they often feature curved lines and decorative elements such as pilasters, columns, and garlands.
Gothic
- Gothic fireplace surrounds are characterized by their pointed arches and elaborate carvings. They often feature scenes from nature or religious iconography.
Eastlake
- Eastlake fireplace surrounds are characterized by their intricate carvings and geometric designs. They are often made from dark wood, and they feature a variety of decorative elements such as spindles, scrollwork, and fretwork.

Choosing the Right Surround

When choosing a Victorian faux marble fireplace surround, it is important to consider the style of your home, the size of your fireplace, and your personal taste. If you have a traditional Victorian home, you may want to choose a surround that is in keeping with the style of your home. If you have a more modern home, you may want to choose a surround that is more contemporary in style. It is also important to consider the size of your fireplace. A large fireplace will require a larger surround, while a small fireplace will require a smaller surround. Finally, you should choose a surround that you love and that reflects your personal taste.