The combination of a fish tank and a fireplace can create a striking focal point in any room.
However, it’s essential to consider a few practicalities before setting up this pair: proximity to heat, moisture management, and ensuring the safety of your fish and your home are all key factors to consider.
This article will explain the considerations for safely placing an aquarium near a fireplace and inspire you with creative ways to incorporate these two design elements in your space harmoniously.
Get ready to dive into some ideas and best practices for creating the perfect setup!
Fish tank near the fireplace
This image comes from Reddit, and here’s what you should know about it:
- This is an electric fire display
- The heating element can be turned off and on
- This fire puts out very little heat
- The fish tank is heavily insulated to protect it from any heat
- The setup was installed and tested by aquarium experts
Electric fireplaces put out much less heat than real fireplaces and wood stoves and can be controlled more effectively.
Therefore, locating a fish tank near one of these isn’t as tricky as putting one next to other fireplaces.
Generally speaking, you should not put a fish tank next to a fireplace because:
- Water will heat up
- Heat damages tank seals/silicon
- Acrylic fish tanks won’t like the heat
- Ash is more likely to find its way into the tank
Fish tank beside fireplace
There are always exceptions to the rule when we say, ‘Don’t put a fish tank near a fireplace,’ and we’ve got examples.
In the image above, you can see a large tank near the fire. This empty fireplace doesn’t look well-used, and it’s open fire. It would not put out a lot of heat if it were to be used.
Open fireplaces do not get as hot as wood-burning stoves or fireplace inserts.
Also, woodburning stoves set into a wall or have a thick surround (as above) will not radiate much heat to the sides. In this situation, putting a tank near a fireplace would be OK.
If you have cold-water fish, they should not be near the fireplace. A significant temperature rise will distress them. Suitable aquarium chillers can offset this, but are they worth it?
Tropical fish, on the other hand, can handle higher temperatures, but most still need to be kept at 75-80°F. Being too near a fireplace will raise the temperature.
Aquarium fireplace design ideas and tips
1. Dual Focal Points
Place the fireplace and aquarium on opposite walls to create two focal points. This ensures each feature shines without competing.
2. Built-In Aquarium
Install the aquarium in the wall above or beside the fireplace for a sleek, modern look. This can be particularly stunning with gas or electric fireplaces where heat management is easier.
3. Symmetry
Use symmetry to balance the fireplace and aquarium. Place the fireplace in the center with matching aquariums on each side, creating a harmonious design.
4. Tiered Design
Consider placing the aquarium on a tiered shelf or stand near the fireplace to draw attention to both elements without them being on the same visual plane.
5. Room Divider
Use a large aquarium as a room divider with a see-through effect. Position the fireplace on one side of the room and the aquarium on the other, dividing spaces while maintaining light flow.
6. Matching Aesthetic
Choose an aquarium stand, decor, and frame that match the materials of your fireplace (e.g., stone, wood, metal) to create a cohesive look in the room.
7. Low Tank, High Fireplace
Invert traditional design by placing a low-profile aquarium on a side table near a higher-positioned fireplace. This adds layers of visual interest to the room.
8. Fireplace as a Backdrop
Position a small aquarium on a mantel or side table so the fireplace acts as a backdrop, creating a serene and warm ambiance.
9. Ambient Lighting
Install LED lighting in both the aquarium and around the fireplace. Sync the colors for a dramatic, coordinated lighting scheme, especially for evening relaxation.
10. Fish Tank Fireplace Combo Unit
If space permits, explore custom-designed units combining a fireplace and an aquarium in one built-in fixture. These bespoke units offer a striking feature piece.
11. Aquarium Over Fireplace
Install a shallow, wide aquarium just above the fireplace. Ensure proper heat insulation, and this setup can create a unique centerpiece.
12. Side-by-Side Layout
For modern or minimalist spaces, place the fireplace and aquarium side by side along the same wall, creating a sleek, linear look with both fire and water as the focus.
13. Contrasting Elements
Use contrasting materials and colors. For instance, pair a dark stone fireplace with a light, colorful aquarium for a vibrant contrast that catches the eye.
14. Corner Aquarium Integration
Install a corner aquarium near the fireplace, maximizing underutilized space. This creates a cozy, intimate area where the aquarium and fireplace work together to make the corner a dynamic focal point without overwhelming the room.
15. Wraparound Design
Position the fireplace in a corner and wrap an L-shaped aquarium around the adjoining walls. This gives both elements prominence without one overpowering the other.
16. Recessed Design
Recess both the aquarium and fireplace into the wall for a flush, streamlined appearance. This design works especially well in contemporary interiors.
17. Floating Aquarium
Install a floating aquarium on the wall next to or above the fireplace. This design creates a sleek, modern look without taking up floor space.
18. Fireplace & Aquarium Nook
Design a cozy nook where the fireplace is set low into the wall with an aquarium built into a higher alcove above or beside it. This creates a unique, cozy feature area.
19. Use of Natural Stone
Incorporate natural materials like stone or river rock in both the aquarium decor and the fireplace surround for a cohesive, earthy vibe.
20. Vertical Stacked Setup
Opt for a vertical setup by stacking a tall, narrow aquarium on top of a built-in fireplace. Ensure heat is properly deflected and the setup is securely fastened for safety.
These ideas allow you to creatively combine aquariums and fireplaces, enhancing the ambiance of your space while ensuring functionality.
Putting An Aquarium Near A Fireplace
So, should you put your aquarium beside the fireplace?
If your tank would be close enough to get warm to the touch, definitely not. But you might be alright if it is 6 feet or more away.
Every situation is different.
Here are a couple of other fire and saw VS pet posts you might be interested in:
Let us know your thoughts in the comment section down below!
