UNIQUE AND COZY FIREPLACE UPGRADES FOR YOUR REMODEL

Build Forward
Sep 26, 2024
4 min read

Transform Your Fireplace Into a Functional Focal Point With These Creative Remodeling Ideas

A warm, neutral toned living room with a fireplace surrounded by bookshelf built-ins. There is an ottoman in the middle of the room with a dog sitting on top of it. — Image via Southern Living

If you are a homeowner lucky enough to have a fireplace, but often find yourself underutilizing the space because it's just not your style or doesn't have that comforting quality you envisioned, this blog is for you. As a design-build company, we understand that a fireplace is not just a source of warmth but also a focal point that defines the ambiance of a living space. Whether your style leans modern, rustic, or somewhere in between, upgrading your fireplace during a remodel is an opportunity to add both aesthetic and functional value to your home. Here are some unique and cozy ways to transform your fireplace and make it a striking centerpiece for the fall and winter months to come.

Stone and Brick Facades

A stone facade fireplace with a fire actively burning and firewood storage underneath. — Image via Architectural Digest

Nothing says "timeless" like a fireplace clad in natural stone or exposed brick. These materials offer a storybook charm that brings a cozy, inviting feel to any room, while still working well with modern designs. A stone fireplace, for instance, pairs beautifully with both minimalist and farmhouse aesthetics. Consider using stacked stone or smooth river rock for a textured yet polished look.

If you prefer brick, a whitewashed or painted brick façade adds a vintage appeal while maintaining the rustic vibe. Pair this with dark grout or metallic accents for an urban-chic touch.

A brick fireplace surround that is painted white. There is a cozy living area with high ceilings and wooden beams above. There is lots of natural light coming in. — Image via Architectural Digest

Pro Tip: You can choose locally sourced stone to tie your home’s interior to its natural surroundings, adding an authentic, regional feel to your fireplace design.

Mantel Makeover

A floating wooden mantel above an active fireplace. It is surrounded by white brick. The mantel has a painting and potted plants on it. — Image via Architectural Digest

An updated mantel can breathe new life into your fireplace. Floating wooden mantels are especially popular, offering a sleek yet homey vibe. Choose reclaimed wood for a sustainable, eco-friendly approach that also adds character to your living space. You can also opt for a chunky, rustic beam mantel if you’re going for a farmhouse aesthetic.

For a more modern or industrial look, consider a metal mantel. Steel or bronze mantels can create a striking contrast against a stone or brick fireplace, bringing in a sophisticated edge to your design.

A bronze mantel framing a black marble fireplace. There is a mirror above it and decorations adorning the mantel. — Image via Denny Gallery

Functional Tip: Your mantel doesn’t just have to be a decorative feature. Add built-in shelving above or on the sides to create a cozy reading nook or showcase family photos, artwork, and décor.

Fireplace Inserts

A modern linear gas fireplace surrounded by smooth concrete or stone. There is modern looking living area with an industrial flair. — Image via Heat n Glo

If you’re looking to make your fireplace more energy-efficient, a fireplace insert is a fantastic solution. These inserts fit into your existing fireplace, converting it into an efficient heat source that uses either gas, electric, or wood fuel. Not only do inserts reduce energy costs, but they also come in a variety of styles, allowing you to customize the look of your fireplace.

Opt for a gas insert with remote control for convenience and modern flair, or choose an electric insert with LED flames for an eco-friendly, easy-to-maintain option that provides the illusion of real fire. Some inserts even include blower fans, pushing warm air into the room more effectively, which is perfect for those chilly winter nights.

Double-Sided or See-Through Fireplaces

A sleek, double sided fireplace with plum tile surround. There are large windows letting in a lot of natural light. — Image via ELLE Decor

For homeowners looking to maximize both form and function, a double-sided or see-through fireplace can be an elegant solution. These fireplaces connect two rooms, allowing the warmth and visual appeal to be enjoyed from both spaces. Imagine a cozy fire glowing in both your living room and dining area, or between a master suite and bathroom for a spa-like feel.

These fireplaces also come in a variety of styles, from sleek, frameless designs to more traditional models, making them adaptable to any home aesthetic. This upgrade is ideal for open floor plans, creating a sense of continuity between rooms while maintaining a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Creative Tile Surrounds

A green tiled fireplace with an active fire burning and a wooden frame mantel above. There are many decorative vases of different shapes and sizes on the mantel. — Image via Motawi Tileworks

While natural stone and brick offer classic elegance, don’t overlook the power of tile to add a pop of personality to your fireplace. With tile, the options are nearly limitless. You can go bold with bright, colorful tiles, or create a more subdued, neutral design using textured or patterned tiles in soft hues.

Geometric tiles can add a contemporary, artistic flair, while Moroccan-inspired tiles infuse the space with an earthy, eclectic vibe. For a more serene, minimalist look, consider large-format porcelain tiles with a matte finish.

Built-In Seating

For the ultimate cozy upgrade, consider adding built-in seating around your fireplace. A hearth bench, cushioned seating alcove, or even a built-in nook can transform your fireplace into a cozy corner perfect for reading, sipping hot cocoa, or simply enjoying the warmth of the fire.

Functional Tip: Incorporating storage within the seating is a great way to keep firewood, blankets, or pillows close at hand, while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look.

A fireplace with blue tile surround and a modern painting hanging above it. There is storage on either side of the fireplace and it is in the middle of a modern but cozy and neutral living area. — Image via Real Simple

Remodeling your fireplace is more than just an aesthetic upgrade; it’s a chance to infuse your space with warmth, character, and personality. Whether you're drawn to the rustic charm of natural stone, the sleek lines of a modern tile design, or the cozy convenience of built-in seating, the possibilities are endless. At our design-build company, we specialize in creating custom designs that speak to your unique style and needs, ensuring your remodel results significant, detail oriented changes that have the potential to bring everyone together, and become the heart of your home.

If you're interested in discussing your inspiration and ideas with us, send us a message at info@webuildforward.com or contact us here. Let’s build something cozy together!