Fireplace Design Ideas Ideas

By Interior Designer TRACY SVENDEN | Published January on 08, 2025 |

Fireplace Design Ideas: Many homeowners wish to incorporate a fireplace into their homes—and for good reason. Fireplaces instantly add architectural interest, warmth, and a focal point to the room while creating a welcoming aesthetic. As an interior designer, I am always searching for beautiful, unique fireplace design ideas that can effortlessly be incorporated into a feature wall.

I recently had my fireplace updated and, in the research stage, gathered a vast collection of stunning images of fireplaces that exemplify good design. From modern, rustic, and contemporary to farmhouse and traditional fireplaces, here you will find many options to spark creativity. Feature image courtesy of Poss Architecture.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Creating a Feature Wall

Studio McGee designed this gorgeous feature wall, which embraces rich and tranquil tones while pairing perfectly with the soft velvets, textural details, and lush layers in the room. The wall was painted a sumptuous shade of green and was elevated by brass wall sconces, hardware, and a curved mirror. It’s the perfect place of comfort to curl up to a roaring fire and light candles as the day dims.

Fireplace Wall Drenched in Green
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

2. Traditional Natural Stone Fireplace

Cushman Design Group’s clients are avid outdoor enthusiasts who desired a comfortable family ski house with year-round appeal. A massive stone wood burning fireplace flanked by built-in lower cabinets accentuates the abundance of windows, soaring vaulted ceilings, wood beams, and warm wood flooring. A wood fireplace mantel, cozy furniture, and carefully considered lighting celebrate the warmth of a home throughout the cold season.

Traditional Rustic Stone Fireplace
Image courtesy of Cushman Design Group

3. Color Drenching Walls

Interior designer Heidi Callier color-drenched the walls in a warm taupe shade, contrasting beautifully with the black marble fireplace surround and brass detailing. Open shelving on either side allows for the display of books, sculptures, and decorative elements.

This symmetrical design is the room’s focal point, creating visual balance with an eye for detail. The artwork above the fireplace echoes the color palette found throughout the room. A simple coat of paint can be an easy way to update an existing fireplace.

Color Drenching Walls
Image courtesy of Heidi Callier Design

4. Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile takes center stage in a modern farmhouse living room designed by Lauren Smyth. Again, we see a great example of how a fireplace can become a striking feature wall by simply including open shelving and storage on either side. The floating shelves and mantel were stained in Sherwin Williams Rustic Gray, and the fireplace tile is Bedrosians / Casablanca / 5×5 / Fida / Matte. Vertical shiplap above the fireplace adds country charm.

Fireplace with Tiles
Image courtesy of Lauren Smyth Design

5. Mixed Materials

A dramatic modern rustic fireplace makes a bold statement with natural texture, contrasting color and texture, and a well-curated mix of materials sourced from Bedrosians. The luxury black matte porcelain slab is in Rebel Night, and the marble ledgers are Marbled Wire Mesh in Glacier White. Although the design features matte porcelain floor tiles, this space would be equally beautiful with hardwood flooring.

Mixed Materials
Image courtesy of Bedrosians

6. Stacked Logs & Barnwood

This modern, rustic, yet refined fireplace designed by Kerry Joyce combines barn wood with stacked logs. It’s a great alternative to the traditional stone fireplace commonly used in rustic interiors, as it adds a contemporary feel to the space while incorporating texture, natural elements, and warm hues. Combined with the wood flooring, ceiling, and walls, it provides the perfect opportunity to introduce a bold color scheme through textiles and artwork.

Stacked Logs & Barnwood
Image courtesy of Kerry Joyce Design

7. Modern Scandinavian Fireplace

An all-white modern Scandinavian living room designed by EM Design Studio boasts a towering, sculptural fireplace with clean lines and an organic structure. Minimalism takes center stage in this masterful design, perfectly balancing contrasting elements. This room exemplifies the modern Scandinavian aesthetic, from warm wood flooring and black accents to cozy textures.

Modern Scandinavian Fireplace
Image courtesy of EM Design Studio

8. Painted Fireplace Surround

Make a bold statement in your living room by painting your fireplace an unexpected color. A painted mantel is a quick and easy way to add a fresh touch to a space while adding a vibrant splash of color.

This deep-moss green provides a focal point while drawing attention to the millwork details on the fireplace surround. The green ties in with the furnishings and accessories while offering a contrast to the white walls.

Painted Fireplace Surround
Image courtesy of Kim Cornelison Photography

9. Vertical Wood Paneling

A precast concrete fireplace with vertical wood paneling along the back wall creates a focal point in a comfortable living room design by Studio McGee. Wood shelving on either side adds the perfect finishing touch, bringing in additional natural texture and a place to store treasured items.

Wood Paneling
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

10. White Farmhouse Fireplace

In a modern white farmhouse living room, the fireplace was built into the wall, allowing the metal face to sit flush with the white wood paneling. Herringbone tile adds a warm detail, while a sleek wood beam serves as the mantel. The TV is the same width as the fireplace – keeping the design clean.

Vertical shiplap paneling provides a neutral backdrop to this simple white fireplace, letting the design elements shine. Minimal accessories and a monochromatic color scheme keep this space bright and airy.

White Farmhouse Fireplace
Image courtesy of Chad Mellon Photography

11. Red Brick Fireplace

Salt Design Company created this warm and inviting red brick fireplace, which provides a cozy rustic look while adding visual interest. This elongated brick wall with firewood storage adds warm terracotta hues that accentuate the leather sofa and warm wood flooring. It’s the perfect spot for entertaining or to sit by the fire and enjoy a good book.

Red Brick Fireplace
Image courtesy of Salt Design Company

12. Modern Textured Sculptural Wall 

The design firm House of Jade took the homeowner’s desire for a tall fireplace with linear details to the next level. They created a unique statement piece with an organic plaster fluted design, working with their plaster team to develop a brand-new technique. Two circular mirrors on the wall complement the contemporary design approach. The choice of a curving sofa ties in well with the room’s organic feel.

Fireplace with a Textured Wall
Image courtesy of House of Jade

13. Dark Green Paired With White Marble

Dark green walls create a dark and moody vibe in this elegant living room with leather and wood accents. White marble provides a classic look, while warm textures create an inviting ambiance. Open shelving on either side allows the homeowner to display an eclectic mix of pottery, artwork, and sculptures.

Dark Green Paired with White Marble
Image courtesy of Loloi Rugs

14. Fluted Millwork Detail

Interior Designer Reena Sotropa used fluted millwork detail that wraps on both sides of this contemporary fireplace design and opens to the kitchen behind. The vertical fluting panel acts as an optical illusion that makes the room feel bigger while providing a subtle texture that creates the perfect accent against the dramatic fireplace stone (Pietra Grey Marble).

Fluted Millwork
Image courtesy of Reena Sotropa Design

15. Antique Mirror

Interior designer Jeremiah Brent designed this elegant, sophisticated living room, which features a marble fireplace surrounded by antique mirror panels. The fireplace mantel features two overlapping pieces of artwork to provide height and visual interest. The deep blush accent chair adds a modern look to the space, while the herringbone tile fireplace inlay adds pattern and texture.

Antique Mirrors
Image courtesy of Jeremiah Brent (Brittany Ambridge Photo)

16. High Contrast

Interior designer Louis Duncan turned the fireplace wall of this black-and-white living room into a high-contrast display for a vinyl collection. This stark contrast is elevated through black accent chairs paired with white and gray throw pillows.

A herringbone pattern graces the interior of the fireplace, adding a refined and finished look. The mantel boasts layered artwork with a vintage-style mirror that gives the fireplace a presence while allowing the rest of the decor to stand out.

Black & White Fireplace Design
Image courtesy of Louis Duncan-He Design

17. Textured Wallpaper

Wallpaper surrounding a black and white fireplace introduces color, pattern, and texture while making a strong visual statement. White cabinetry on either side provides contrast, while organic textures keep the space warm and inviting.

With an eye for detail, Gray Space Interiors kept the width of the TV the same as the black inner frame of the fireplace. Keeping lines clean maintains a design aesthetic that doesn’t appear cluttered.

Wallpaper Accent Wall
Image courtesy of Gray Space Interiors

18. White Stone Fireplace Accent Wall

Interior design firm Intimate Living Interiors appreciates mixing different materials and design styles, such as combining a rustic wall and wood elements with modern furniture. A large white stone fireplace surround adds abundant texture to the space while providing a neutral backdrop that lets the other elements in the room stand out.

For those looking to add designer detailing to a space, the backdrop behind built-in cabinetry provides the perfect opportunity to be creative with wood paneling, wallpaper, or paint in a complementary or contrasting hue. I’ve also applied the same concept to free-standing shelving units with excellent results.

White Stone Accent Wall
Image courtesy of Intimate Living Interiors

19. Wood Accent Wall

In a striking 10,000 sq. ft. lake house home designed by Urbanology, an antique-style warm wood paneling accent wall surrounds an elegant white fireplace surround. The design concept for this project revolves around fusing traditional architectural features with modern touches, resulting in a space that exudes sophistication and timeless appeal.

“Wood paneling can have a transformative effect on a room,” says Ginger Curtis, founder and CEO of Urbanology Designs in North Richland Hills, Texas. It adds warmth, texture, and a sense of character. When done right, it can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.”

Wood Accent Wall
Image courtesy of Urbanology

20. Contemporary Touches

This incredibly unique fireplace was designed using non-combustible, 8 mm-thick Trillium (color) tiles in Cosentino’s Dekton. The panels are large tiles that resemble patinated metal and are separated by metal bands to show relief. The look is warm, edgy, and earthy, creating a dramatic focal point that works in contemporary and rustic homes.

Contemporary Fireplace Design
Image courtesy of Jordan Powers Photography (All Seasons Fire)

21. Mid-Century Modern

Designed by Frahm Interiors, this mid-century modern living room features a fireplace surround clad in Lamstone Jura – a natural stone laminated to a flexible backing. Jura Lamstone wall panels are thin and strong and may be applied to any surface. The orange flames pick up the wood tones in the built-in walnut cabinetry on either side of the fireplace and the stone’s warm undertones.

Mid-Century Modern Fireplace
Image courtesy of Frahm Interiors

22. Two-Sided Fireplace Design

Michelle Gerson Interiors designed a floor-to-ceiling double fireplace covered with warm wood slats. These slats add color and texture while acting as a room divider between two seating areas. The firebox is trimmed with a recessed frame with a slightly worn patina that adds visual interest and depth to this contemporary space.

Two-Sided Fireplace Design
Image courtesy of Michelle Gorson Interiors (Brittany Ambridge Photo)

23. Whitewashed Brick

A white-washed brick electric fireplace adds texture that compliments the neutral tones in a modern farmhouse living room. An eclectic mix of mantel decor includes candle holders, artwork prints, books, and vases. The chunky wood fireplace mantel adds a rustic touch to the space.

White-Washed Brick Fireplace
Image courtesy of Jessica Nelson Design

24. Black & White Marble 

The impact of black and white does not disappoint in this home. A floor-to-ceiling marble fireplace steals the show in a living room designed by McCroskey Interiors. Within the office, high-gloss custom built-ins and exquisite white oak paneling with a custom stain sets the tone. Design details enchant with exaggerated elegance throughout the residence.

Black Marble Fireplace
Image courtesy of McCroskey Interiors

25. Fireplace With Steel Rods

This stunning gas fireplace is open on all sides and wrapped by steel rods with blackened oak panels above. Located in Chicago and designed by
frequent collaborators PROjECT and dSPACE Studio, this contemporary fireplace design is visible from the family room, dining room, and kitchen. This modern space features clean lines and an open-concept design executed in a bold way.

Fireplace With Steel Rods
Image courtesy of Architectural Digest (Design: PROjECT. and dSPACE Studio,  Tony Suluri Photo)

26. Slate Gray Vertical Concrete

A slate gray concrete fireplace designed by Gray Space Interiors adds understated elegance to a designer-approved living room that balances modern and rustic elements with grace. Elements such as bold textiles, natural elements, potted plants, and wood tones warm up the space while providing visual interest.

Slate Gray Concrete Fireplace
Image courtesy of Gray Space Interiors

27. Southwestern Fireplace

In a Southwestern home designed by Jobe Corral Architects, a custom copper fireplace pairs beautifully with the rammed earth detailing on the wall while adding a sculptural element. Serving as a dynamic focal point, the fireplace adds warm hues and dramatic contrast to the white walls.

Southwestern Fireplace
Image courtesy of Jobe Corral Architects

28. Modern Rustic Design

In a modern rustic living area created by AMB Design, rooflines soar over trapezoidal windows, allowing natural light to flood a space defined by dramatic vaulted ceilings and large, expansive glass. The combination of natural stone, a dramatic black fireplace surround, and organic materials define a retreat with bold design choices. A contemporary coffee table, luxe fabrics, and elevated finishes are the perfect addition to this magnificent home.

Modern Rustic Fireplace
Image courtesy of AMB Design

29. Natural Elements

The heart of another home designed by AMB Design nestled in Big Cottonwood Canyon comes directly from the palpable and imposing mountain views. The beautiful fireplace reflects the gorgeous architectural elements while incorporating natural materials. This luminous home combines refined details such as leathered Collemandina slabs, hot-rolled steel, wire-brushed white oak, and raw natural wools.

Natural Elements
Image courtesy of AMB Design

30. Symmetrical Design

Symmetry is an essential element in design that adds visual balance to a space. In a living room designed by Donna Mondi, a fluted neutral fireplace is flanked by two built-in shelves with geometric wallpaper backing.

The symmetrically placed fireplace, furniture, and light fixtures help direct eyes toward the feature wall. Large artwork introduces a contemporary touch. This simple, balanced design achieves a clean look that feels warm and inviting.

Symmetrical Design
Image courtesy of Donna Mondi Design

31. Modern Farmhouse 

An elegant and sophisticated living room designed by McCrosky Interiors features a modern fireplace design flanked by two built-in glass cabinets. Rich material selections, earthy elements, and natural finishes are paired with modern styling that blends the homeowner’s frontier spirit with contemporary elegance. White walls and black accents create contrast, while an ornate mirror on either side of the fireplace adds modernity.

Modern Farmhouse Fireplace
Image courtesy of McCrosky Interiors

32. All Black Fireplace

I love an all-black fireplace, and this one is no exception. Interior designer Michelle Boudreau created this beautiful fireplace and surrounding wall with fluted black panels and glossy tiles. The result is a dynamic feature wall that compliments the warm red tones in the ceiling and furniture.

Black Fireplace
Image courtesy of Michelle Boudreau Design

33. Dark Wood Paneling with Black Fireplace

In a home built by Tamarack Homes, dark cherry-toned wood fluted panels make a striking contrast to a black tile fireplace. Free-standing cabinets with curved tops are displayed on either side to create a cohesive design. Bright orange velvet accent chairs add a bold pop of color.

Dark Wood & Black Tiles
Image courtesy of Tamarack Homes

34. Solid Wood Mantel

A solid wood mantel instantly adds a rustic feel to the space and elevates a natural stone fireplace. In a living room designed by Alder & Tweed, a wood fireplace creates a warm and inviting focal point that pairs well with rough-hewn beams, wood flooring, and a mixture of rustic and contemporary pieces.

Natural Stone Fireplace
Image courtesy of Alder & Tweed

35. Fireplace in the Bedroom

Consider a fireplace in the bedroom for a cozy ambiance. Intimate Living Interiors designed this elegant, serene bedroom with a vertical light wood feature wall. Flanked by two built-in shelving units and a large piece of artwork above, this fireplace takes center stage.

Wood Panel Fireplace
Image courtesy of Intimate Living Interiors

36. Outdoor Fireplace

Suzanne Tucker designed an outdoor seating area for a family getaway at Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana. The area features a magnificent stone fireplace in warm, earthy hues. It can be enclosed for warmth or left open to the mountain air. The upholstery and tile flooring picks up the tones from the stonework, creating a cohesive design.

Outdoor Stone Fireplace
Image courtesy of Tucker & Marks

37. Corner Fireplace

Wood-burning stoves, brick, and wood mantles go hand in hand. In a corner fireplace designed by Jute Interiors, a simple yet beautiful corner fireplace features a thick wood mantle and brick painted in black. It provides the perfect contrast to white shiplap walls and light hardwood flooring.

Corner Fireplace
Image courtesy of Jute Interior Design

38. Room Heightening Fireplace

Interior Designer Lindye Galloway designed a modern farmhouse living roaring with high ceilings, warm wood flooring, and fluted detailing over a marble fireplace. The two black lower cabinets on either side pull in color from the fireplace, while the open shelving above echoes the tones found in the flooring.

Vertical Fireplace
Image courtesy of Lindye Galloway Design

39. Neutral Fireplace Design

McCroskey Design created this elegant modern farmhouse space with walls of windows that effortlessly merge indoor and outdoor spaces. Every aspect of the design exudes understated luxury – from low-profile exterior stone paired with luxurious marble accents to cozy textiles, wood beams, and organic details.

Neutral Fireplace
Image courtesy of McCroskey Design

40. Incorporate Arches

In an organic modern living room designed by Studio McGee, the stone wall is a beautiful focal point that incorporates arches. These arches are a beautiful juxtaposition to the steel and glass sliding doors that open to create a cohesive space with the outdoor area.

Stone from the exterior of the home was brought into the fireplace wall, further defining the indoor/outdoor living concept. One archway was used to create a built-in shelving unit, and the other leads to a wing of the home where the bedrooms are.  

Arches Flanking a Fireplace
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

41. Define a Color Scheme

In a seating area designed by Alissa Johnson, bold wallpaper surrounds a white and gray marble fireplace, making a strong design statement. The room embraces a color palette of rich red and green hues with contrasting white elements.

Colorful Fireplace Surround
Image courtesy of Alissa Johnson Design

42. Black Paint & Wood Coffered Ceiling

In a dark and moody seating area designed by Studio McGee, a black wall with a fireplace and TV above becomes a strong focal point. This room exudes luxury and refinement with a wood-coffered ceiling, metallic accents, a rich green velvet sofa, and leather accent chairs.

Black Fireplace Wall
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

43. Make an Architectural Statement

Interior Designer Alissa Johnson makes a bold architectural statement with a soaring plaster fireplace with sweeping curves. This organic modern space is accentuated with light wood beams, flooring, and a fluted kitchen island.

Fireplace With Sweeping Curves
Image courtesy of Alissa Johnson Interiors

44. Bring in Chocolate Hues

Warm chocolate hues set a moody tone in the modern rustic living room designed by West of Main. Rich gray-brown marble tiles with white graining are flanked by two built-in cabinets, which echo the tones in the flooring while adding a finished look to the space.

Chocolate Hues
Image courtesy of West of Main Design

45. Incorporate Old-World Charm

Lindye Galloway designed this gorgeous and inviting living room with a fireplace mantel that exudes old-world charm. Two soaring curved windows with wood trim on either side show Lindye’s eye for detail. Rustic ceiling beams and dining table add warmth and texture.

Old-World Charm
Image courtesy of Lindye Galloway Design

I hope you enjoyed this post on fireplace design ideas. Happy decorating!

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