Fireplace surrounding design.

Electric VS Gas Fireplace:

     Before we get into the surrounding design, we must first discuss the centerpiece of the project. Understanding the design and technical aspects of a fireplace will help you make decisions on surrounding material and have the overall design match with it. The gas fireplace is more preferrable to some families as it produces a real flame and it will increase real estate value more than the electric fireplace. The appearance of electric and gas fireplaces are similar.  Traditional appearance is taller and has a bigger opening. Modern fireplace has a smaller opening and is thinner in look. Cottage home often uses traditional appearance as it matches the rustic look well, while contemporary residential home uses more linear fireplaces.

Cottage Home Fireplace Surround:

     The textured surface is often chosen for cottage home fireplace surrounds. Natural stone is often used to create an appearance that fits the space. Both limestone and marble are best to suit the purpose. Limestone is a versatile material used to construct the pyramid. Limestone is softer than the marble but easier cuts and shape into any shape. Similar to other natural stones, Limestone is porous and has to be sealed well to maintain the natural beauty and resist against stains. The homeowner should seal the limestone annually when used as a fireplace surround.

     Marble is formed when limestone is subjected to the heat and pressure of metamorphism. The appearance is usually light in color and can be treated either polish or honed. The honed marbles preserve natural look more than the polished, and this may fit the cottage home better. However, if the fireplace is set in a space with minimal light and the homeowner wants to make the surround a centerpiece, polish finish is the better option.

Contemporary Home Fireplace Surround:

     There are a number of different options that can be used in a contemporary home. Two most popular choices include granite and tiles. Each choice has characteristics that fit different design styles. Starting with granite, granite is a porous light color rock with grain large enough to be visible to the naked eye. Other than fireplace surround, it’s often used as a countertop. A large granite slab can run from the floor to the ceiling. Granite is beautiful and easy to install for a small surface. Larger surface is difficult to install as an increase in granite size will make it easier to crack during transportation and installation. Designers will often recommend adding seams for larger slabs to avoid crack. 

     Tiles are also popular as tile can replicate the appearance of other materials. Living room that uses fireplace as a centerpiece can use either herringbone pattern or turquoise fish Scale. These two will immediately grab the attention of anyone who enters the space. For a traditional look, faux brick, or stacked stone tiles works best.  Tile is also great to create wood look without worrying about combustible. 

Aside from the material outline above, there is also other fireplace surrounds that homeowners can use. Speak with our designer today and learn more about fireplace design.