50 Inspiring Fireplace Ideas That Bring Warmth and Beauty to Any Room

These surrounds, mantles, hearths, and decor ideas will help you design your dream fireplace.

A fireplace makes any space feel cozy and welcoming—especially if you choose a design that fits your personal aesthetic. Whether you opt for a look that's sleek and modern, carved and ornate, or contemporary and clean, a fireplace often becomes the central focal point in a room.

We asked more than 20 interior designers to share their most inspiring fireplace projects, from new installations to existing upgrades, reclaimed mantles to seamless inset fireboxes, and small dens to oversized living spaces. Whether your design sense trends toward antique marble, poured concrete, salvaged wood, or intricate tiles, you'll find ideas to make any fireplace a standout part of your space.

Related: How to Clean Every Type of Fireplace the Right Way

Anchor a Colorful Space

Interior designer Rayman Boozer of Apartment 48 in New York City centered a colorful den in an Upper East Side townhouse around a black marble fireplace surround with white veining.

The vibrant hues in floor-length Kerrie Brown curtains, a Made Goods coffee table, Barry Cawston artwork, and the curated shelf layouts are tempered by neutral gray paint, earth-toned swivel chairs, and a sapphire blue rug.

Pair Traditional and Modern

In the more formal parlor of the same townhouse, Boozer pairs modern seating and metallic accent pieces with a marble table and abstract rug—all of which complement the elaborate marble fireplace surround.

An oversized mirror in an intricate frame matches the antique look of the mantle, while slim candleholders and contemporary glass vessels allow the old stone to feel fresh. 

Create Contrast With Color

Painting the walls and crown molding the same shade of blue-gray—and incorporating a similar shade into the mantle decor, side chair, and lamp—allow this fireplace surround's impressive stonework to stand out.

Artwork by Andy Dixon—a colorful contemporary take on a classic portrait—adds color and visual interest to this primary suite designed by Boozer. 

Hide a Mounted Television

Black herringbone tile and crisp white trim surround this living room fireplace, designed by Kelly Finley at Joy Street Design. The light and dark contrast is mirrored on the adjacent bookcase and complemented by a bright, primary-toned artwork that hangs over the fireplace.

But the artwork isn't just beautiful: It's also functional. The painting slides into a hidden compartment behind the bookshelf to reveal the client's television. 

Choose Concrete

No mountain lodge is complete without space for warming up apres ski by a roaring fire. This contemporary lodge, designed by Finley, highlights the natural surroundings with large windows and open skylights—but the sleek concrete fireplace, light wood tones, and geometric textiles are more modern than rustic.

Add a Vintage Find

In a snug room, a floating conversation seating is anchored by a stacked stone fireplace. The natural stone hearth and dark wood mantle complement the lighter tones of the wood floor and coffee table, while the rich blue shade on the stone and chimney stand out against the natural walls. A salvaged furnace cover placed by Finley in the middle of the stone tile adds vintage charm.

Install a Mosaic Surround

Instead of flanking both sides of the fireplace with storage, Finley opted for lower cabinets and open shelving on just one side—leaving space for additional seating to the left of the fireplace.

Mosaic gray-and-white tiles surround the firebox, while a marble hearth coordinates with the sumptuous fabrics, cozy textiles, shimmering metallics, and oversized artwork in the room. (A frame TV over the fireplace makes the room more versatile, says Finley.)

Update an Existing Fireplace

For clients who wanted to keep their existing firebox, Finley elevated the look of the older insert with geometric tile in shades of gray and white, a simple white trim surround, and natural wood vessels and greenery on the mantle.

Black accents elsewhere in the space—including the sconces, benches, and coffee table—coordinate with the firebox while allowing the space to feel light and bright.

Accent Artisanship

The varied coloring in this graphite-toned stone fireplace surround anchors a room designed with light walls, neutral textiles, and bright, abstract artwork by Elizabeth Bolognino of Elizabeth Bolognino Interiors.

A dark wooden chair balances the color palette, while the matching hearth keeps the focus on the surround's shape and artisanship.

Related: 14 Living Room Décor Ideas Every Homeowner Should Try

Make a Statement

A statement fireplace surround can provide a focal point on a large wall. The striking veined surround in this room, designed by Bolognino, complements the leather and jewel-toned seating, the minimalist wooden accents, and the nods to nature—including an extra-wide landscape artwork and a vase of dried greenery.

Add Dynamic Shelving

When you're curling up on a rainy weekend with a good book, a board game, or your favorite film, even an understated fireplace elevates the ambiance in your room.

Bolognino surrounded this fireplace with traditional molding and plenty of storage—including both square and rectangular shelf compartments that turn the homeowners' books into a dynamic visual accent. 

Create Visual Balance

A long, low firebox stretches across the wall perpendicular to a grid of oversized windows in another of Bolognino's designs, while a dramatic stone surround reaches toward the high ceilings.

High-contrast art on wood-paneled insets brightens the space, while a low shelf on each side matches the ledge under the fireplace. The tufted ottoman, rounded accent chair, and plush pillows balance the crisp geometry of the wall.

Add Metallics

In a space Bolognino designed with a mix of shapes and materials—the wood floor in the living space, honeycomb pattern in the kitchen, marble backsplash, exacting detail on the wooden trim—this fireplace is an eye-catching addition.

The dark surround and antiqued metal interior are a sleek contrast to the ivory wooden columns, trim, and mantle, while the decor—pottery, glass, wood, dried florals—also blends color and texture.

Elevate the Farmhouse Look

Architect Daniel Frisch combined classic farmhouse elements—exposed wood beams, an oversized fireplace, a brick surround—with contemporary elements, like vibrant dining chairs, black-trimmed door panes, and a sleek stainless steel hood.

The white-painted brick around the fireplace provides a minimalist contrast to the inset black fireplace box, while the custom crest and artwork offer another modern take on tradition. 

Balance an Off-Center Placement

To balance a fireplace that isn't centered on the wall, J. Banks Design added other contrasting elements against a sand-colored background.

A mantle constructed from individual stones leaves just enough space for small pottery and a single painting between the ledge and the ceiling's wood beams, while lounge chairs in mix-and-match prints create a cozy weekend-in-the-countryside atmosphere. 

Highlight an Accent Wall

A wall of floor-to-ceiling diagonal planks by J. Banks Design meets over this fireplace, where a wide, natural surround softens the sharp lines of the room.

An interior herringbone layout mimics the planks, and minimalist accents—a glossy ceramic plant pot, asymmetrical greenery, slim black taper candles—let the natural wood shine.

Opt for Ornate Trimwork

In a large bedroom, a central fireplace divides the sleeping and lounging areas. Pastel pink and aqua are set off by pops of fuchsia and bright blue, while the beige surrounding the fireplace coordinates with the coastal vibe. The ornate mantle and trim are a good fit for the color palette and delicate accessories from Kristina Phillips Interior Design.

Choose Old-Fashioned Elegance

Phillips combined elegance and comfort in this formal space. Nailhead-trim sofas and curved accent chairs are centered around a wide fireplace with intricate molding and traditional detailing. Wainscoting on the lower part of the wall ties the fireplace into the room's other architectural elements, while a black hearth balances the firebox.

Ground an Oversized Space

While a space with high, open ceilings can feel empty and bare, interior designer Nadia Watts uses molding, flowing drapes, a tall cabinet, and a black fireplace surround to ground the space.

She calls it "simple lines with dramatic effect." References to the great outdoors—small bird figurines on the mantle, artwork of a deer and bird, a leaf-shaped pattern on the armchairs, and a woven basket filled with plants—enhance the warm, inviting atmosphere.

Opt for Careful Carving

A surround of carved black marble frames the white herringbone interior of the firebox in this room, while black shelves filled with cream- and ivory-colored books and vases keep the wall from becoming too heavy. Watts used sky-colored paint, gold accents, and pops of lush green in the photographs over the sofa to keep the space elegant—but not fussy. 

Related: 8 Entryway Décor Ideas That Make a Great First Impression

Offer a Warm Welcome

Natural walls, dark gray crown molding, and warm terra cotta, mushroom, and gold textiles create a welcoming conversation space in this living room. Painting the fireplace surround gray allows the detailing and texture of the brickwork to stand out against the brick-colored herringbone interior, while Watts chose art, vases, and plants in organic curves and abstract shapes to soften the look.

Highlight a Favorite Art Piece

With ample space for bookshelves on either side of this homeowner's smaller firebox, the open storage could become a visual distraction from the rest of the room. But by installing the firebox in a marble wall that's wider and taller than the shelves, the space feels like a spot to relax and let your eyes rest. Watts used an art piece from the client's existing collection over the firebox to center the space. 

Balance Oversized Shelves

A sunny formal living space, designed by Watts, is anchored with a curving, carved fireplace surround. Trim at the top of the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves on either side mimics the shape of the mantle, while the symmetry of a pair of tall candleholders is offset by a pop of green in the foliage-filled vase.

Divide Two Spaces

In this open-concept home, the fireplace wall separates the formal dining room from the eat-in kitchen. On the kitchen side, a cream-colored cast mantle holds a low wooden bowl overflowing with aspen branches from the homeowner's yard. Watts kept the fireplace open to both the kitchen and dining room; the round dining chairs are visible through the fireplace when it's not lit.

Embrace Soft Curves

The rounded design of this fireplace by Enviable Designs is a gentle contrast to the sharper lines of most mantles and surrounds. The arched detail over the firebox is repeated in the soft curves of the sides and top, and though using a single paint color allows the fireplace to blend in against the wall, the curves allow it to stand out against the rectangular molding.

Rely on Star Power

A neutral living space from Elsie Home is elevated by a field of white stars on a black background that surrounds the firebox. The statement-making tile draws attention away from the mounted television, while the wooden chests on either side of the fireplace offer more flexible storage than built-in cabinets. Vertical boards on the space above the mantle add a hint of texture without competing with the room's other elements. 

Mix Materials

In a smaller room, Enviable Designs installed horizontal wood planks across the short wall to help the space look wider. The gray stone surround of the fireplace softens the deep brown of the wood with organic tones, while minimalist lamps on either side are a polished alternative to cabinets or shelving. 

Bring the Outdoors In

Large windows surrounding the fireplace in this room by Erin Sander Design make the natural outdoor landscaping a focal point. The ivory-toned fireplace extends out from the wall, helping the space feel more intimate, while a floor-to-ceiling installation of horizontal wood planking at varying depths adds visual warmth. 

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

The rich wood tones and majestic block trim of this fireplace surround coordinate with a slim desk and wall of bookshelves. Delicate floral wallpaper, draping ferns, and a curved mirror, vases, and chandelier soften the space designed by Susan Hayward Interiors. "Nestled in the corner, an armchair upholstered with custom Kravet fabric provides a cozy spot to warm up by the fire and elevates the room from a home office to an elegant study," says the designer. 

Add Width to a Square Firebox

A small, square firebox becomes a focal point with an oversized black surround and hearth by interior design firm Widell and Boschetti. The onyx color complements the deep purple, olive, and teal upholstery on the furniture, while a built-in mantle disappears into the wall behind it (making a decorative sculpture appear to float). Modern gold sconce lighting sits on either side of an asymmetrical mirror that softens the sharp geometry of the wall. 

Related: 20 Nature-Inspired Paint Colors That Bring the Outside In

Warm a Cool, Coastal Space

This coastal living space by Phillips incorporates a sleek black fireplace—perfect for curling up after chilly autumn walks along the shore. The fireplace is balanced by a television mounted above it and asymmetrical wall layouts with tones of cool blue, warm gold, and orange on either side. A natural wood mantle, floral pillows, and an arrangement of soft ferns make the space feel soft and inviting. 

Go Natural

Light wood cabinets, a neutral armchair, and rich gray accents create a soothing retreat in this living room from Widell and Boschetti. A long, low fireplace is mounted into a sleek marble wall, which complements the other natural textures and materials in the room. 

Mix Colonial and Modern

A Wilderness Reserve colonial era-inspired brick fireplace with a paver hearth and wood-beam mantle sets off an exposed metal chimney. The mod upholstery prints, mixed patterns, and vivid pops of raspberry and lime hues add a contemporary accent. 

Set the Mood

A swirling black-and-white marble surround and mantle set the tone for this dining room by Widell and Boschetti. "Because the stone has so much movement, a rich jeweled tone paint color was in order," says designer Christina Boschetti. "Hand-painted graphic paper was chosen for the fifth wall to add that extra pizazz. We chose an oversized mirror to finish the room off, adding a simple, demure bust."

Book-Match Your Marble

In this room by Widell and Boschetti, a book-matched vanilla onyx slab surround is adorned with a single bust. "We brought the tones and colors of the stone into the furniture design using natural horsehair chairs and subtle patterned wallpaper," says Boschetti. "The mitered mantle added extra depth to the movement of the stone."

Make Waves

A floor-to-ceiling accent of carved Carrera marble tiles included inlaid brass curves that create a wave effect around the long, low fireplace. "This tile added texture and shine, and brought the contemporary fireplace alive," says Boschetti.

Hit the Roof

A fireplace wall designed to accentuate this room's high, peaked ceilings includes windows that angle upward and a chimney-inspired hood. Using the same neutral-toned material for the surround and hood allowed designer Gillian Segal to keep the overall look understated, while a dark hearth with a natural-cut edge complements the smooth shape and sharp corners of the surround.

Highlight Original Brick

While many homeowners opt to paint the original brick surrounding a fireplace, this den, by interior designer Sarah Stacey, embraces the beauty of the timeworn materials. A leather sofa, rounded armchair, and plush carpet soften the roughness and geometry of the wide hearth and wood mantle.

Choose a Single Shade

In this room, Stacey used a single rich navy shade to paint the fireplace surround, adjacent cabinets, and floor-to-ceiling shelves. This approach helps the television blend into the wall, while the brick hearth and decorative objects draw attention to the firebox and shelf styling.

Salvage a Mantle

Design firm Kaminski + Pew combined the look of a salvaged mantle, antique bricks, and modern, graphic marble into this fireplace. Traditional accessories—like a gold stand for fire tools and a metal log holder—complement an unexpectedly ornate mirror (which reflects the room's contemporary light fixture) and delicate feathers in a glass vase.

Related: 50 Small Bathroom Ideas That Make a Huge Impact

Add Patterns All Around

In a room with several bold elements—patterned wallpaper, checkered carpet, vibrant pillows, and lampshades—an arched firebox with a delicate, carved surround still holds its own. The tapered mirror over the fireplace reflects contrasting wallpaper and a metallic light fixture in a room designed by Amy Pigliacampo Interiors.

Commit to a Color Palette

Simple doesn't mean boring in this space, designed by Hilary Matt Interiors, where an almost monochromatic color palette of white, cream, tan, and champagne creates a restful sense of balance. The fireplace surround frames the box to create a layered look and add depth. 

Go Without a Mantle

The clean lines of this contemporary space by Jen Samson Design match an inset fireplace with a wall of floor-to-ceiling glass and overhead wooden beams. The soft curves of the sofa, footstool, coffee table, and vase filler—plus the crackling fire—keep the room comfortable and inviting.

Use a Contrasting Color

An accent wall by JLA Designs gives a neutral room a dose of understated color with a textured, gray-blue stone that shows off the dramatic veining in the marble surround. An asymmetrical ledge brings balance to the offset layout.

Update the Classics

While this space from Kate Lester Interiors has all the classic elements of a formal study—a fireplace with a portrait hung above it, bookshelves, intricate woodwork—each is a contemporary take on the timeless standard. Woodwork painted in a shade just slightly darker than the wall allows the unique mantle shape and trim to draw the eye, while a colorful, modern art piece and sculptural decor on the bookshelves are illuminated by metal sconce lighting.

Opt for Natural Stonework

Samson also designed this stone surround, placing individual rocks and boulders to create an intricate piece of natural art. Mossy branches add height and color, while soft seating and a woven blanket offer a comfortable spot to warm up. 

Add Built-In Seating

Fireplace boxes that extend into the living space can create hard-to-furnish areas on either side. Elise Home used built-in storage and cushioned benches to transition those areas into extra seating—perfect for sitting by the fire with a mystery novel and a cup of tea.

Contrast Dark and Light

Designers from Blythe Interiors used charcoal paint on deep bookshelves and slate-colored upholstery to coordinate with the fireplace, creating a consistent visual line of color across the bottom of this wall. This allowed the floating wood mantle and luminous artwork to add contrast while balancing the proportions. 

Add a Seascape

A meticulously carved mantle and surround blend into a contemporary space by John Merkl when flanked by cushioned benches and velvet armchairs. An ocean-view photograph hung over the fireplace is an updated alternative to traditional seascapes.

Temper Bright Patterns

In a more-is-more room designed by Phillips—where patterned chairs, multicolored taper candles, a lime-trimmed sofa, oversized plants, and floral curtains work in harmony—a chocolate-colored marble surround veined with gold and tan accents encloses a brick-lined firebox. A white mantle and woodwork transition the surround into a gray wall, where an installation of tiny butterflies soar above twin vases of white flowers. 

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Read the original article on Martha Stewart.