11 Popular Materials for Fireplace Surrounds
Whether industrial steel or classic brick speaks to your style, one of these materials is sure to set your heart aglow
The fireplace has been the most prominent architectural element in the home for centuries. It can be designed in just about any configuration using a world of materials. From the height of the firebox opening, to the shape of the hearth, to incorporating mantels and lighting, the most distinctive detail remains what we choose to cover it with. Take a look at some of the most popular materials that designers are using.
Ledgestone. This sleek floor-to-ceiling fireplace is constructed from one of the most popular materials currently on the market. Small strips of stone are applied vertically to look like tiny ledges, creating a soft contemporary feel.
Design idea: With no hearth and mantel, the firebox floats inside the stone, almost like artwork.
Design idea: With no hearth and mantel, the firebox floats inside the stone, almost like artwork.
Steel. An entire fireplace wall clad in steel has a commanding presence. The industrial feel goes hand in hand with minimalism for those who love the less-is-more look.
Design idea: Applying texture to this common material during fabrication ensures a unique visual depth.
Design idea: Applying texture to this common material during fabrication ensures a unique visual depth.
Concrete. A favorite of eclectic and industrial styles, raw concrete is durable and different. Aim for this sturdy solution when you want an edgy, outside-the-box look.
Design idea: Using exposed hardware to adhere the concrete panels to the fireplace adds a small detail that makes a big difference.
Design idea: Using exposed hardware to adhere the concrete panels to the fireplace adds a small detail that makes a big difference.
Brick with wood. Exposed brick with surrounding millwork looks timeless and can be a great way to update an older brick fireplace. The untouched brick adds a more textural contrast to a freshly painted mantel and surround.
Design tip: Forgo white or off-white; paint your fireplace surround a bold color and watch your room transform from good to great.
Design tip: Forgo white or off-white; paint your fireplace surround a bold color and watch your room transform from good to great.
Tile. Is there anything more serene than a fireplace at the foot of the tub? Glass tile in a camel color transports this fireplace to a transitional style.
Design tip: The niche above the fireplace serves as a great place for vignettes, photos and other accessories for ambience.
Find a tile pro in your area
Design tip: The niche above the fireplace serves as a great place for vignettes, photos and other accessories for ambience.
Find a tile pro in your area
Metal. Edgy but old school, this firebox surrounded puts an old-world material in a more modern form.
Design tip: Mixing and matching finishes — such as with the raw wood planking, metal fireplace and highly lacquered furniture here — feels eclectic and spontaneous.
Design tip: Mixing and matching finishes — such as with the raw wood planking, metal fireplace and highly lacquered furniture here — feels eclectic and spontaneous.
Wood. Floor-to-ceiling millwork in a coffered design surrounds this fireplace in true classic style, updated with a trendy hue of gray.
Design tip: Placing a decorative layer of stone around the firebox opening as well as on the hearth breaks up all the vertical and horizontal lines of the wood moldings.
Design tip: Placing a decorative layer of stone around the firebox opening as well as on the hearth breaks up all the vertical and horizontal lines of the wood moldings.
Slab material. A fully segmented wall pattern in wood creates this transitional center fireplace. A single piece of stone with a hole cut out for the firebox serves as the surround. Smooth lines deliver casual elegance in this family room.
Design tip: Select slabs from a stone yard’s remnants (material left over from other projects) to complete your project at a much lower cost.
Search for stone manufacturers near you
Design tip: Select slabs from a stone yard’s remnants (material left over from other projects) to complete your project at a much lower cost.
Search for stone manufacturers near you
Fieldstone. This rustic family room includes a fireplace made from stones that look and feel as if they were found in an adjacent field. The wood mantel and a raised hearth beg for family gatherings.
Design tip: Faux fieldstone is now available for those who are looking for a more budget-friendly alternative to this look.
Design tip: Faux fieldstone is now available for those who are looking for a more budget-friendly alternative to this look.
Plaster. Common in the American Southwest, plaster (very similar to a textured drywall) fireplace surrounds are traditional in design but oh so cozy. I love dining room fireplaces!
Design idea: Eliminating a protruding hearth on a fireplace in the dining room can free up much-needed floor space.
Hire a professional fireplace company
More: See more fireplaces | 10 Ideas for a Fireplace Facelift
Design idea: Eliminating a protruding hearth on a fireplace in the dining room can free up much-needed floor space.
Hire a professional fireplace company
More: See more fireplaces | 10 Ideas for a Fireplace Facelift
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