The first in-home fireplaces were makeshift at best. They were generally placed in the middle of the room to allow the maximum number of people to feel the heat radiating off of the fire. Above the ceiling, the first chimneys were created in the form of a hole in the ceiling, creating a draft and an outlet for the smoke to escape. This design survived various cultures for thousands of years and was not replaced with another style of fireplace until the more conventional two-story home design became dominant.

In these new style homes, the fireplace was moved to the outside wall. The middle of the room was no longer a prime location for the fireplace. Also, hardwood floors were not practical to build a burning fire on, nor was it efficient to have a fireplace in the middle of a second story room. Setting the fireplace off to the side allowed more living space in the room. Chimney structures were also moved to the wall of the room and vented horizontally. These early designs did not productively eliminate smoke from the room.

The traditional chimney was discovered as an answer to this problem. By venting the fireplace up through the roof, a draft was created which pulled smoke up and out of the house. This quality makes the chimney one of the most important innovations in fireplace technology. Not all original chimney designs were flawless, however. Chimneys in the 1700s were prone to catching fire and were developed more-so.

In today's age, fireplaces are no longer relied on for means of heating in most households in America. Central heating systems provide heat throughout the house. However, fireplaces are still ornamental pieces that add extra warmth to drafty rooms, and a touch of beauty to any bare wall. They provide the perfect view to enjoy on a cold winter's night, or to gather around for family photos.