Historically, the hearth was used for practical reasons–a way to heat the home and sometimes to even cook meals. While we now have modern conveniences that handle these functions, the hearth is still a popular staple of nearly every home. It is seen as a cozy spot to gather with our loved ones, the focal point of our living space and even a fundamental element of a home’s design.

“Home is Where the Hearth is,” in the November edition of Previews® Inside Out, features six fireplaces that would warm anyone’s heart–and toes! From the gilded and ornate, to the rustic and monumental these mantels feel as though they are the anchor around which the rest of the home was designed.

Personally, I’d like to curl up in front of this stone hearth in Snowmass, Colorado under a warm woolen blanket with a glass of Cabernet.  Doesn’t it seem like the perfect aprés-ski spot?

Which hearth lights your fire? To see more magnificent homes around the world, visit coldwellbankerpreviews.com.