The fireplace has been the most prominent element at the home for centuries. In just about any configuration using a world of substances, it may be designed. From the height of the firebox opening, to the shape of the hearth, to incorporating mantels and light, the most distinguishing detail remains what we choose to pay it with. Take a look at some of the most popular substances that designers are utilizing.

Garret Cord Werner Architects & Interior Designers

Ledgestone. This sleek floor-to-ceiling fireplace is constructed from among the most popular substances currently in the marketplace. Little pieces of rock are applied vertically to look like miniature ledges, creating a soft contemporary feel.

Design idea: With no hearth and mantel, the firebox floats within the rock, almost like artwork.

Cary Bernstein Architect

Steel. An whole fireplace clad in steel has a commanding presence. The industrial feel goes hand in hand with minimalism for those who love the look.

Layout idea: Applying texture to this frequent material during manufacture ensures a unique visual thickness.

Synthesis Design Inc..

Concrete. A popular of eclectic and industrial designs, raw concrete is lasting and distinct. Aim for this hardy solution if you want to have an edgy, outside-the-box look.

Design idea: Utilizing exposed components to adhere the concrete panels to the fireplace adds a little detail which makes a significant difference.

Julia Ryan

Brick with hardwood. Exposed brick with surrounding millwork appears timeless and can be a fantastic way to update an old brick fireplace. The untouched brick adds a more textural contrast to some freshly painted mantel and surround.

Style tip: Forgo whitened or off-white; paint your fireplace surround a bold color and see that your room change from good to good.

Xstyles Bath + More

Tile. Is there anything more serene in relation to the fireplace at the base of the bathtub? Glass tile at a camel color transports this fireplace to a transitional style.

Design tip: The market above the fireplace serves as a fantastic place for vignettes, photographs and other accessories for ambience.

Jamie Laubhan-Oliver

Metal. Edgy but old college, this firebox surrounded puts an old-world material in a more contemporary form.

Design tip: Mixing and matching finishes — like with the raw wood planking, metal fireplace and extremely lacquered furniture here — feels eclectic and spontaneous.

Peter A. Sellar – Architectural Photographer

Wood. Floor-to-ceiling millwork at a coffered design surrounds this fireplace in true classic style, updated with a trendy hue of gray.

Design tip: Placing a decorative layer of rock around the firebox opening in addition to on the hearth divides all of the vertical and horizontal lines of this wood moldings.

Alpha Design Group

Slab material. A totally segmented wall pattern in wood generates this transitional center fireplace. The surround is served as by A single piece of stone with a hole cut out for the firebox. Smooth lines provide casual elegance in this living space.

Design tip: Select slabs from a rock yard’s remnants (material left over from other projects) to finish your job at far lower cost.

Harrell Remodeling, Inc..

Fieldstone. This rustic family room includes a fireplace made from stone which look and feel like they were located in an adjacent field. The wood mantel and a raised hearth beg for family parties.

Design tip: Faux fieldstone is now available for those who are looking for a more budget-friendly alternative to this look.

Garret Cord Werner Architects & Interior Designers

Marble. The quintessential contemporary living room wouldn’t be complete without a dramatic all-white Carrara marble fireplace.

Design tip: Should you desire a touch more flair, the mill can book match your rock — which is, put all of the veins of the marble to form a layout.

Plaster. Common at the American Southwest, plaster (quite like a textured drywall) fireplace surrounds are traditional in layout but oh so cozy. I enjoy dining room fireplaces!

Design idea: Eliminating a protruding hearth onto a fireplace in the dining room can free up much-needed floor space.

More: See more fireplaces | 10 Ideas for a Fireplace Facelift

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