After many years of having no outdoor living space and dealing with overgrown plants and trees the owner’s decided it was time to revitalize their backyard. They knew they wanted a large sitting area with a wood burning fireplace, room for outdoor dining and a place for the grill. A connecting walk would be needed to get guests from the driveway to the outdoor space. Last but not least, the owners wanted the ability to and a reason for stepping out of their unusable patio doors. The designers decided from the start the fireplace would be the prominent feature and focal point for the entire project. A large fireplace accented with sitting walls and arbors was positioned to anchor the corner of the patio. Stone was chosen to set the fireplace apart as its own element. Brick was used for the sitting walls and brick accents were added to the fireplace to tie into the house. An inlaid herringbone brick detail was incorporated above the stone mantle to simulate artwork which is typically found above indoor fireplaces. Flagstone was used for the wall caps and hearth to match the patio and thicker flagstone tread stock was used for the mantle and top. The arbors were added to visually balance the pergolas at the opposite side of the patio. For the patio the designers created a series of offset spaces to help subtly divide the space into two areas, sitting and dining. Two large existing trees also help dictate the shape of the patio. Cut flagstone was chosen for the surface bordered by a double soldier edge of brick. The brick edging also surrounds a decorative gravel area topped with an urn fountain which provides a secondary focal point and the sound of water. Large flagstone treads were used for the steps leading to the previously unused patio doors. Opposite the fireplace a short walk leads to a square transition area with a statue chosen by the owner. The statue provides a strong focal point when entering from the driveway. A longer walk leads from this space along the house to the driveway. The pergolas and arbors were designed by the landscape designer as part of this project but were ultimately contracted separately by the owner. The larger square pergola was intended as an area for a bench or two separate from the main patio. The longer pergola was added later in the design phase to help provide shade to the interior of the house. The arbors at the fireplace were added to balance out the wood elements at the opposite side while adding additional architectural interest to the fireplace. While this project was predominantly hardscaping, planting and lighting were also incorporated into the design. Several large existing trees were retained and serious of smaller understory trees were added to help enclose the space. The designer’s took advantage of the large trees to place down lights on the branches to achieve a moonlight effect at night. Additional lighting was used on the pergola, to accent focal points, to up light the smaller trees and around the patio. Massed planting of Japanese forest grass provides bold foliage color for the shady garden. A mulch path leads off behind the fireplace to another garden and a secluded area ideal for a bench or small table and chairs. Additional plantings were added along the rear property line to screen and unsightly fence. This project has obviously completely changed the way the owners use their backyard. They now have a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors with the use of the patio doors. The large patio allows for entertaining small gatherings outdoors for the first time. The fireplace has definitely become the primary gathering place for family and friends.

This client in Falls Church had a deteriorated front walkway. We designed and installed a mortared brick walk in herringbone pattern and overlaid the front porch - the brick and mortar match was perfect!

Dimplex DLGM29 Vapor Fireplace Insert features revolutionary ultrasonic technology that creates the flame and smoke effect. As the mist rises up through the logs, the light reflects against the water molecules creating a convincing illusion of flames and smoke. The result is an appearance so authentic it could be mistaken for a traditional wood-burning fireplace.

This is an example of a large coastal back porch design in Charlotte with a fireplace and a roof extension.

Upon entering the penthouse the light and dark contrast continues. The exposed ceiling structure is stained to mimic the 1st floor's "tarred" ceiling. The reclaimed fir plank floor is painted a light vanilla cream. And, the hand plastered concrete fireplace is the visual anchor that all the rooms radiate off of. Tucked behind the fireplace is an intimate library space. Photo by Lincoln Barber

Dual vanities nestled between dual fireplaces in this historic home, Circa 1794 with exposed original brick. The shower features a rain head plus two hand held sprays, a fog-free mirror and his and hers niches. Photo by Kim Graham Photography.

The Devonshire Series direct vent gas fireplace delivers a clean-face design featuring one of the tallest viewing areas for a true masonry-built look. Combined with top tier features, such as heat-radiating ceramic glass, a realistic log set, heavy-duty cast iron grate, and a variety of options, the Devonshire Series will create a warm and inviting home. EXCLUSIVE FEATURES Available in 36” and 42” models Conveniently located gas controls for easy installation and operation Energy saving electronic controls with seamless battery backup provide continued operation in the event of a power outage Clean-face design allows more flexibility for a custom look Tall opening provides an exceptional view of the flame Multi-level burner produces tall, dancing flames with beautiful ember bed Smooth-faced design features ceramic glass for optimum heat transfer Ceramic poured fiber log set with heavy duty cast-iron grate Dual blowers for increased comfort High definition refractory panels available in multiple styles and colors Includes full-featured remote control (variable flame control and IPI/CPI) Limited Lifetime Warranty This fireplace meets all 2015 ANSI barrier requirements.

Bright and cheerful basement rec room with beige sectional, game table, built-in storage, and aqua and red accents. Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg Photography

Less is more--art director and Instagram darling Amanda Jane Jones refreshes her classic brick fireplace in Snow.
Mid-sized danish open concept medium tone wood floor living room photo in Chicago with white walls, a standard fireplace and a brick fireplace

Gray Concrete Fireplace Hearth See more of our work at www.hardtopix.com Photo by M-Buck Studio
Mid-sized transitional open concept and formal medium tone wood floor living room photo in Grand Rapids with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a wall-mounted tv and a stone fireplace

Photo credit: Tony Soluri Architect: Liederbach & Graham Landscape: Craig Bergmann
Transitional formal living room photo in Chicago with a ribbon fireplace and a brick fireplace

© CityAperture - Jose Valcarcel
Example of a trendy living room design in DC Metro with a brick fireplace and a corner fireplace

The VRT4000 radiant vent-free fireplace presents a fresh yet traditional tall and flush to the floor masonry fireplace design. Standard features include, a radiant clean face design with a 24" tall opening, hidden screen pockets, factory installed j-box and the industry's finest textured refractory panels and floor. Features VRT4000 Series offers 32”, 36” and 42” models Expansive viewing area with a flush to the floor opening Interior refractory panels available in Red and White in both stacked or herringbone pattern Textured powder-coat paint Full length nailing flanges for easier installation Gas knockouts located on both sides for easier installation Mesh draw screens for a more realistic appearance Compatible with any listed ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free log set. Choose a beautiful and reliable Superior vent-free log set for best results. 20 year limited warranty

This is one of our favorite stones for fireplace surrounds. “I love the stone fireplace, great texture.” “wonderful use of stone on the fireplace surround” “family room fireplace feature stone texture” “Beautiful Fireplace Ideas for Stone Veneer Fireplace Surrounds” “This stone fireplace surround is a popular choice for rustic interiors as well as contemporary spaces” “The stonework covers the fireplace in Toronto creating a rustic feel on the fireplace surround”

Enfort Homes -2019
Inspiration for a large country master carpeted and gray floor bedroom remodel in Seattle with white walls, a standard fireplace and a wood fireplace surround

Eldorado Stone - Mesquite Cliffstone
Example of a mid-sized classic enclosed concrete floor family room design in St Louis with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and no tv

Our Town Plans photo by Todd Stone
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional open concept medium tone wood floor living room remodel in Atlanta with beige walls, a standard fireplace and a brick fireplace

Herringbone brick floor, outdoor brick fireplace, "Haint blue" tongue and groove ceiling, and views of the May River.
This is an example of a brick screened-in side porch design in Other with a roof extension.

Warm up the room with a Scorpio™ series direct-vent gas fireplace with traditional Oak logs and a standard heat circulating blower. Scorpio shown with Old Town Red Herringbone Ceramic Fiber Liners and interior illumination.