Definition

Noun: * A chimney breast is the part of a wall in a room that projects outward to surround and enclose the base of a chimney stack or flue. It is the visible, interior structure that houses the fireplace opening and the chimney's lower section.

Usage

The term chimney breast is used specifically to describe the architectural feature inside a room. It is most commonly found in older buildings. * The old fireplace was set into a large stone chimney breast. * They decided to remove the chimney breast to create more space in the living room. * The mantelpiece was fixed securely to the chimney breast.

Advanced Usage

• In renovation or structural discussions, the term is used to distinguish the interior projection from the chimney stack (the part above the roof).
  • Before removing the chimney breast, a structural engineer must assess if the stack above is supported.

Variants and Related Words

• Chimney Stack (noun): The part of the chimney that extends above the roof of a building.
• Fireplace (noun): The opening in a chimney breast where a fire is set.
• Flue (noun): The duct, pipe, or opening inside a chimney for smoke and gases.

Synonyms

• Chimney projection
• Fireplace wall (in context)

Antonyms

• Flat wall
• Recessed niche (for a fireplace)

Noun

1. walls that project out from the wall of a room and surround the chimney base