13 Fireplace Remodel Ideas for a Perfectly Cozy Space

Echo the Natural Landscape

This large-scale fireplace was taken from an ornate French country style to a rustic, modern design that better suited its place in a Western mountain home. The stone and wood add a welcoming warmth.

"We opted for natural, of-the-earth materials. We clad the fireplace from floor to ceiling in the same stone that's found on the exterior of the house, and clad the ceilings in wood," says Kimberly Dean, principal designer at Esme Interiors. "Trusses and metal hardware details add depth, without feeling overly adorned."

Emphasize the Utilitarian Side

In a large room, a fireplace can get lost unless it has a large mantel or surround.

This fireplace takes a more functional approach, making the firewood the focal point. "To embrace the elegance of the home and the towering ceilings, we opted to display the utilitarian element of the fireplace," adds Dean.

Opt for a Minimalist Surround

In this artsy living room, a traditional fireplace was replaced with a minimalist one.

"We surrounded it with Nero Dorato marble," says Becky Asleson, founder and principal of Maple & White Design. "To emphasize the ceiling height, we added a wood detail that runs from floor to ceiling."

She also added built-in benches on either side for blanket storage, keeping the space extra cozy through the winter.

Make a Statement

The tile surrounding this fireplace runs from the floor to the ceiling and serves as a show-stopping statement piece.

“With this tile, it was love at first sight," says interior designer Elizabeth Drake. "Featuring it like artwork in the room meant building a clean, contemporary box over the fire box."

Design a Feature Wall

Rather than let the fireplace stand alone as a centerpiece, it can be incorporated into a larger design moment. This one is part of a feature wall that integrates the surround with built-ins and a bar. Running a paneled facade from one side of the room to the other makes the entire design feel cohesive.

“This fireplace became the heart of the room after a complete transformation. What began as a simple surround with modest side storage is now a fully integrated feature wall that blends beauty with purpose," says Kristin Kostamo-McNeil, owner of Anna Rae Design.

Incorporate Contemporary Details

If your space has more traditional décor elements, then the fireplace can be an opportunity to introduce a more contemporary and unexpected aesthetic. This room uses timeless stone and marble materials, but in a way that feels fresh and sculptural.

"The existing fireplace lacked historical significance, so we reimagined it with fluted terrazzo cladding, accented by a Nero Marquina insert and coordinating floor treatment for striking contrast," says Paulina Hospod, co-founder and designer at Aha Interiors.

Think Outside the Box

Brick, stone, and wood might be typical fireplace mantel materials, but thinking outside the box can lead to an incredible renovation.

The upper part of this fireplace surround uses a mixed-media approach, with materials that nod to a hunting lodge within a modern style. "The fireplace is upholstered in leather and hair-on-hide in a modern, striped detail," says Mark Tremblay, president of Marc-Michaels Interior Design.

Think About Functionality

This fireplace has floor-to-ceiling stone, creating texture, warmth, and a connection to nature.

One of the most clever details is actually what's above it. "For added functionality, we placed a recessed box behind the TV to allow for the box, cables, and other essential pieces to lie in there nicely hidden," says Esther Ruth Ellard, founder and principal designer at Effortless Designs LLC.

Go Floor to Ceiling

The original hearth in this room was replaced with a gas fireplace, and the scale was increased to make it a focal point within the space. A stone veneer was added for texture and coziness, and the wood mantel adds natural warmth.

"The existing structure was completely reframed with a floor-to-ceiling surround to enhance visual impact and balance the space," says interior designer Courtney Turk. "The result is a timeless fireplace that blends functionality with elegant, modern design."

Juxtapose Warm and Cool Tones

Pretty blue tile makes this fireplace stand out amidst a wall full of neutral built-ins. Rather than making a bold design statement, it simply adds a subtle touch of color to the palette.

This approach works beautifully alongside the neutrals, creating an unexpected juxtaposition with the warmth of the actual fire. "The blue tile was chosen to introduce a coastal feel and serve as a pleasant, eye-catching focal point," says interior designer Rebecca Ward.

Make it Contrast

In a room full of light neutrals, the fireplace can be an opportunity to create a dramatic statement. This one is finished in a black stain and was crafted using a traditional Japanese technique for charring wood.

"The deep black finish adds striking contrast to the home’s palette of white oak, warm whites, and neutral, modern-organic furnishings," says Alana Spears, owner of Alana Spears Home.

Upsize the Scale

Gas inserts are typically smaller than traditional wood-burning hearths, but that doesn't mean you can't fake the size a bit. A mantel can extend the scale of the fireplace and make it more of a focal point.

"We installed a classic gas fireplace and created a more contemporary painted wood mantel with black absolute granite surround and hearth," says interior designer Molly Miller. "It's a simple design, but an improvement in scale and style."

Paint the Brick White

Painting brick is always a divisive design decision, but if you're trying to brighten up a living room, then a wash of white over a brick fireplace can quickly add levity.

Pair it with white walls and light upholstery, like in this space. "The client loved the original fireplace, but wanted a modern look," says Suzette Conrad, marketing director at Bolt Builders, of the approach.