A fireplace is more than just a source of warmth – it is a focal point, a gathering place, and a testament to craftsmanship. Personally, I think of fireplaces as the heart of a room, a piece that ties together design and functionality in a beautiful harmony. Whether it’s a statement reclaimed marble mantle, a classic Georgian timber surround, a Victorian steel and tiled gas fire or a sleek modern floating artwork, the right fireplace can anchor a room, drawing the eye and inviting comfort.
As the days get shorter, the temperature drops , Halloween gives way to Christmas spirit and I just had the five fires in my own London house checked for our annual maintenance, I am reminded of the eternal elegance, grace and coziness which my fireplaces add to each room.
Delve into the art of incorporating fireplaces into your interior design with me.
1. Define the Focal Point of Your Space
In every room, one element naturally commands attention — and a fireplace almost always claims that role with ease. When well designed, it doesn’t just warm the space; it anchors it, setting the visual and emotional tone. The placement, proportions, and style of a fireplace determine how the entire room flows around it.
When planning a layout, I always begin by asking: where does the eye rest first when you enter? Often, it’s the fireplace. It might be existing or you might want to add it. From there, everything else — the sofa placement, lighting layers, even artwork — radiates outward. A fireplace can act as a gravitational centre around which the design orbits. It doesnt need to be centrally positioned but you must plan it carefully.
Architectural alignment:
A fireplace works best when it’s aligned with the architectural rhythm of the room. Centring it on a main wall or between windows reinforces symmetry, while an off-centre placement can introduce a more dynamic, modern feel. Consider ceiling height, window placement, and traffic flow — the fire should be visible from key viewpoints, especially seating areas.
Proportion and scale:
The scale of the fireplace should suit the size and volume of the room. A tall chimney breast or wide mantel in a grand reception room feels grounded and generous, while in smaller living rooms or bedrooms, a more delicate design in stone, plaster, or metal ensures balance without overpowering the space. I have worked on spaces where the existing fireplace felt undersized – I then added architectural panelling or built-in joinery which will visually extend and enlarge the presence.
In my own home I replaced all the five mantle surrounds with ‘new’ reclaimed stone fireplaces, I resized all the hearth plates on the floor and added black granite, I bought antique grates and inserts. Sizing and dressing a fireplace can change the style of the interior significantly.
Classic Grandeur: In traditional homes, fireplaces with elaborate mouldings, grand mantels, and stone hearths create a timeless appeal. Think of a Georgian marble mantle or a Victorian cast-iron insert that speaks to the history of the property while exuding sophistication.
Modern minimalism. In contemporary interiors, simplicity becomes the hallmark of sophistication. A linear gas or bioethanol fireplace recessed into a plastered wall creates a seamless, architectural statement. These clean lines allow the flame to become the feature, enhanced by natural materials like limestone, micro-cement, or honed basalt. The Alchemy Bioethanol Fires by Chesney’s are a beautiful example — elegantly engineered to integrate into joinery or wall cladding, offering instant warmth without the need for a chimney.
Functional zoning. Fireplaces also play a practical role in open-plan layouts, subtly defining zones without walls. A double-sided or see-through fire can separate dining and living spaces while maintaining visual continuity. Positioning armchairs near the hearth naturally creates an intimate nook within a larger room, perfect for reading or conversation.
When thoughtfully designed, the fireplace does far more than provide heat — it becomes the emotional anchor of the room. It draws people in, encourages pause, and sets the atmosphere for gatherings, reflection, or quiet solitude.
2. Embrace the Architecture and Materials
The materials you choose for a fireplace do far more than define its look — they shape the entire mood of the room. Texture, tone, and finish influence how the firelight reflects, how the space feels in daylight versus evening, and how the fireplace integrates with the surrounding architecture. Whether your interior leans traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, the fireplace should sit in good dialogue with the building’s or the room’s character.
Start with the architecture. Before choosing materials, study the bones of your space. Is it a Georgian townhouse with tall ceilings and decorative mouldings, or a modern new build with crisp plaster lines and minimal detailing? A strong architectural dialogue ensures harmony: the more permanent and sculptural the fireplace feels, the more authentic it will appear.
In a period property, natural stone, carved marble, or timber surrounds preserve heritage and craftsmanship.
In contemporary spaces, consider flush installations in plaster, steel, or textured stone — materials that integrate seamlessly with clean-lined architecture. there are wonderful free standing wood burners or bioethanol burners which can even move around the room. Modern fires can be added to interior or exterior walls, sit in the middle or a room or hang from the ceiling, you can really go wild and create glamorous atmospheres, think of Bond movies.
Marble elegance. Marble remains the quintessential material for luxury fireplaces. Its natural veining and luminous surface catch firelight beautifully, creating an elegant contrast between cool stone and warm flame. Polished Calacatta or Arabescato marble adds drama and reflection, ideal for formal living rooms. Honed or leathered finishes provide a softer, more tactile feel — particularly effective in contemporary homes where subtlety is key. For a modern twist, extend marble beyond the surround — wrap it into the hearth or carry it up the chimney breast for a monolithic effect that feels architectural and timeless.
Rustic charm. For countryside retreats or rooms designed to feel grounded, limestone, sandstone, or travertine bring texture and earthiness. These materials work beautifully with exposed beams, linen upholstery, and natural flooring.
In our chalet projects, we use chiselled rough granite fireplaces — new or reclaimed — their hand-finished surfaces reveal the craftsmanship behind them, offering a wonderfully tactile, rustic effect and infusing the spaces with charm and authenticity, as if they have always belonged to the landscape.
Even in my Hampstead home, I use a brushed reclaimed chateau limestone surround which balances nicely between my travertine and oak floors and its rough rustic texture creates an inviting and grounded feeling in the entrance hall, which is an otherwise minimalistically furnished architectural space.
Metallic accents. Metal introduces a sculptural edge and helps bridge traditional and modern design. Cast iron inserts and grates lend historical depth to period fireplaces and age beautifully over time, acquiring a natural patina. Bronze or brass detailing can add subtle glamour — for example, a slim metal trim outlining a minimalist fireplace or brass framing around a dark marble surround.
Concrete, plaster, and tiles. In contemporary interiors, monolithic materials such as micro-cement, tadelakt, or smooth concrete create a sculptural calm. These finishes allow fireplaces to blend into the wall surface, maintaining a seamless look.Micro-cement is especially versatile for modern spaces where durability and texture are key.
Plaster and Tadelakt, with its subtle sheen, works well in Mediterranean or coastal homes, offering a sense of artisanal craftsmanship. In our French beach estate project I recovered a stone surround with a bespoke shaped design which looked grander and theatrical and the casting was then resurfaced in polished plaster.
For our large new-build project in Cornwall, I sourced bespoke handmade tiles from Belgium — their mesmerising, reflective bronze finish clads the monolithic central fireplace, casting a warm, shifting glow and capturing reflections from every angle.
Wood and joinery integration. In some projects, we integrate the fireplace directly into joinery — framing it with fluted timber panels, oak shelving, or concealed cabinetry. The mix of warm wood and firelight creates an intimate, cocooning atmosphere. When done with precision, this combination can balance softness and structure perfectly.
Material continuity
Finally, I will always consider how the fireplace material connects with the rest of the interior palette. I might echo the stone from a fireplace in a kitchen countertop, repeat a marble tone in a bathroom vanity, or complement its finish with matching metals in lighting or furniture. These subtle connections create visual harmony and an effortless flow throughout the home. There is no formula, but you have got to keep spinning all the plates in your mind and make sure you find a rhythm.
The beauty of a fireplace lies not only in its flame but in the craftsmanship and materiality that frame it. When chosen thoughtfully, the right material can turn an everyday hearth into an architectural masterpiece — timeless, tactile, and undeniably luxurious.
3. Layering Design Elements Around the Fireplace
A fireplace becomes even more compelling when framed with complementary design elements that enhance its visual impact.
Balance and proportion. I begin by observing the scale of a chimney breast or mantel wall. Large fireplaces often benefit from flanking elements — shelving, cabinetry, or panelling — that ground the composition and provide rhythm. In more compact rooms, restraint allows space for the fire to breathe. Symmetry creates calm and formality; asymmetry, on the other hand, can feel dynamic and contemporary.
In a recent London townhouse, we balanced a tall marble fireplace with low, floating oak shelves on one side and a sculptural armchair on the other — achieving equilibrium without perfect symmetry.
Mirrors and artwork. The space above the mantel is a powerful design opportunity. A mirror will expand the room and amplify the firelight, making the space feel brighter and taller — particularly effective in smaller or darker rooms. For classic interiors, an antique gilded mirror or a softly aged silver leaf frame adds understated grandeur. I have also installed mirror TVs or cabinets hiding a television above fireplaces. In contemporary spaces, I prefer a large, minimalist mirror in bronze-tinted or smoked glass for a subtle, moody reflection.
For bolder interiors I will chose artwork above the fireplace, this will turn the fireplace into a curated moment. A statement canvas or textured wall sculpture draws the eye upward and defines the character of the space. In one Hampstead project, we selected an oversized figurative painting by an emerging South American artist which I found at the Hampstead Affordable Art Fair, above a travertine gas fireplace, which introduced bold colour without overwhelming the soft natural palette.
Built-in shelving and joinery. Integrating joinery around a fireplace provides both function and harmony. Flanking shelves or cabinets create a sense of permanence and purpose. Open shelving suits relaxed living spaces — ideal for displaying ceramics, art books, or curated personal objects. Closed cabinetry below with open display above maintains visual order while offering concealed storage. For a refined effect, repeat the fireplace material as an inlay or shelf detail within the joinery — for instance, a slim marble ledge that echoes the hearth stone.
In our Surrey renovation, we designed bespoke joinery on either side of a marble fireplace, subtly recessed with integrated lighting. The illumination emphasised the depth of the stone this creating a perfect fusion of warmth and precision.
Layering through texture and light. The glow of a fire naturally draws the eye, but surrounding textures and lighting elevate the atmosphere further. Combine tactile surfaces — smooth stone, brushed metal, soft fabrics — to enhance depth. Introduce layered lighting: a pair of wall sconces or small picture lights above the mantel can softly frame the fireplace, while floor lamps or concealed LED strips can accentuate architectural lines. Firelight, in combination with these sources, creates a layered, cinematic ambience that changes beautifully from day to night.
Elegant hearth seating
A fireplace invites gathering, so consider how furniture supports that purpose. In formal settings, place two upholstered armchairs angled slightly toward each other across the fire, creating a conversational nook. In larger open spaces, a curved sofa can elegantly wrap around the hearth, softening the geometry of the architecture. For mountain or country homes, built-in stone or timber benches flanking the fire add rustic authenticity and practicality.
In one of our Alpine chalet projects, we integrated a low, upholstered bench into the hearth surround — a detail that not only provides additional seating but also connects the architecture and furniture seamlessly.
Styling for atmosphere
Finally, the objects you place on and around the mantel complete the composition. Keep it intentional: a sculptural vase, a pair of candlesticks, or a small piece of art is often enough. Avoid clutter — the fire itself should remain the star. Vary heights and materials subtly to create rhythm, but always leave negative space so the eye can rest.
When these layers come together — architecture, texture, light, and composition — the fireplace transcends its role as a mere heat source. It becomes the visual and emotional anchor of the home, a place where design and atmosphere intertwine effortlessly.
4. Selecting the Right Style for Each Space
The style of your fireplace should resonate with the room’s overall design and the architecture of the property.
Period elegance for heritage homes: Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian styles often feature classic mouldings, cast-iron inserts, and richly detailed mantels. Preserving these elements in a period home maintains the authenticity and charm that makes these properties so special. Don’t be afraid to change a surround, mantle or hearth if it isn’t your taste. While I believe in honoring and working with a building’s character and past, it is your home now and I have often upgraded ‘classic’ mantles for nicer, bigger or better quality, preferably I buy vintage and reclaimed mantles because they offer a patina that you dont achieve with a new product. All of my new surrounds in my house came from Westland London, but we also source from Jamb, Renaissance or Ward.
Contemporary minimalism. No matter the period of property, for some spaces we prefer a modern look for the fireplace. I have sourced and installed frameless gas fireplaces and linear bioethanol fireplaces.
I particularly like the effect for space planning of double-sided fires they are wonderful for dividing spaces subtly — offering visual connection and warmth from multiple angles. In some projects I have used freestanding stoves or suspended fireplaces , they work beautifully in beach and mountain holiday homes or loft-style apartments, adding sculptural presence without visual heaviness.
Take a look at some of these brands which I have used to get inspired by what is possible : Malm, Planika, and Focus.
Eclectic designs for artistic flair. Much of what I design is deeply personal and never follows a formula. I often create an eclectic look by blending styles, periods, and materials in unexpected ways — pairing a vintage Rococo marble fireplace with sleek contemporary sofas and lighting, or transforming an original Victorian steel fire with handcrafted modern tiles for a truly individual touch.
In our Fulham townhouse project, our clients sourced an original vintage Kachelofen from Vienna — a traditional tiled stove that is part of many Austrian and Swiss homes. We installed it at the heart of their new kitchen & family living space, allowing its brightly glazed ceramic tiles to reconnect the family with their roots. The Kachelofen now stands as more than a fireplace — it’s a bridge between past and present, radiating both warmth and memory. Its presence transforms the townhouse into something deeply personal: a place where craftsmanship meets sentiment, and where childhood memories continue to live quietly within the fabric of a new home.
5. A New Addition
In homes where a fireplace didn’t originally exist, introducing one can transform both the architecture and the atmosphere of a space. It’s an intervention that adds not just warmth, but structure, character, and focus — a design move that can entirely redefine how a room feels and functions.
Creating a new architectural anchor
When adding a fireplace, placement is everything. It should feel as though it has always belonged to the architecture, not merely inserted into it. I always start by studying the natural lines of the space — where your eye travels when you enter, how furniture will orient itself, and how light moves through the room. In open-plan areas, positioning the fireplace centrally or on a main axis can help organise the layout and create hierarchy. In long or narrow rooms, a fireplace can visually balance the proportions and add a point of pause. In larger homes, consider double-sided or corner fireplaces to connect adjoining spaces — such as between a dining and living area, or between an entrance hall and sitting room.
Design freedom in new builds
Adding a fireplace to a new build or renovated property gives enormous creative flexibility. Without the constraints of existing chimneys or flues, you can position the fireplace to suit your preferred layout — even in the centre of a room. Bioethanol and electric models have made this process more seamless, allowing for sculptural designs that don’t require venting or complex installation.
In this new build holiday home we placed a modern log fireplace from the exceptionally create French company focus fireplaces against the central wall.
Reimagining atmosphere in modern settings. In our summer house project in Denmark, a simple contemporary log-burning stove became the visual counterpoint to the large rustic log façades. The flicker of the flame added intimacy and rhythm to a space otherwise defined by openness and light.
6. Accessorising with Fireplace Details
The finishing touches make all the difference, and a few well-chosen accessories can elevate your fireplace from functional to fabulous.
- Decorative screens and andirons: Iron or brass fireplace screens and andirons are both practical and decorative, adding an extra layer of detail. Ornate screens can enhance a traditional look, while minimalist designs work beautifully in modern interiors.
- Firewood storage: For wood-burning fireplaces, storing firewood can be an opportunity to add charm to the space. Consider built-in niches or artisanal baskets that provide storage while adding a rustic touch.
- Mantle décor: Keep mantle décor simple yet impactful, with curated pieces that enhance the space. A pair of elegant candlesticks, a small vase of seasonal flowers, or a collection of small ornaments brings warmth and personality without overshadowing the fireplace itself.
Tools and rituals
Luxury is as much about experience as appearance. Every fireplace benefits from beautiful tools that make the ritual of lighting a fire both effortless and pleasurable. Keep a small collection of fire-lighting essentials — matches, kindling, and lighters — within arm’s reach.
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A leather or linen-lined basket nearby keeps everything discreet and accessible.
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A side table with a drawer can hold matches and lighters, preserving the clean look of the hearth.
In our mountain chalet project, we used an Eldvarm tool set in black steel with oak handles — a perfect fusion of craftsmanship and functionality.
Lighting and reflection
Even when unlit, a fireplace should hold presence. Accent lighting, such as recessed LED strips beneath the mantel or wall sconces on either side, enhances the materiality and depth of the surround. The interplay between warm firelight, candlelight, and ambient lighting transforms a simple hearth into a layered, atmospheric composition that glows from within.
Luxury is not just about aesthetics; it’s about convenience and creating an experience. When lighting your fire, everything should be close at hand and easily accessible. Keep your fire lighting tools – such as matches, lighters, or a striking flint – on a nearby table or within arm’s reach to ensure the ritual is effortless. This attention to detail not only elevates the experience of using your fireplace but also embodies the essence of luxury – where comfort and style blend seamlessly. After all, true luxury lies in the ability to enjoy your surroundings with ease.
7. Hiding an Existing Fireplace
In many London period properties, I am asked to reconfigure layouts for modern living, and this can lead us to concealing an existing fireplace as it may no longer be functional or relevant to the room’s use or the family lifestyle – and that is ok too. Yet, rather than removing it altogether (which I have done to gain space but involved significant structural interventions and costs!) there are ways to reinterpret or quietly disguise it so that it continues to contribute to the architecture and character of the space.
Reimagining a non-functional fireplace
A disused fireplace can become a wonderful opportunity for design creativity. It can serve as a focal point, a display niche, or even a sculptural moment that tells a new story. As a display alcove: Line the interior with decorative tiles, polished stone, or painted plaster and use it to showcase a piece of pottery, stacked firewood, or a sculptural object. In one Kensington apartment, we filled a sealed fireplace with stacked travertine slabs and placed a bronze sculpture in front — the combination of material and art gave the illusion of an intentional installation. For added texture: You can also line the hearth with mirror, brass, or dark marble to create contrast and depth — even when the fireplace isn’t lit, it will subtly reflect light and movement. As integrated storage: In smaller rooms, transforming a redundant fireplace into shelving or a discreet cabinet can reclaim valuable space while preserving architectural interest.
Creating harmony through joinery and panelling. If the proportions of an old fireplace no longer suit a modern aesthetic, consider reframing it with joinery or panelling. A painted wall of cabinetry can integrate the fireplace seamlessly, making it feel intentional rather than leftover. Alternatively, fluted or timber panelling can disguise a blocked chimney breast while maintaining a sense of rhythm and texture on the wall. In one of our Highgate townhouses, we concealed a defunct fireplace within bespoke panelling that also housed hidden storage and integrated lighting. The result was architectural and elegant — a subtle nod to the past, reinterpreted for modern living.
Modernising through mirrors and technology
Sometimes, the best way to preserve a fireplace is to reimagine its purpose entirely. In media rooms or family living spaces, installing a mirror TV above a traditional fireplace allows technology to disappear when not in use. We’ve worked with Overmantels to create seamless, bespoke mirror televisions that look like antique mirrors by day and transform into screens by night — the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
When concealment is the right choice. There are occasions as in the Highgate project, when a fireplace interrupts the balance of a newly designed space. In such cases, concealment can be the most elegant solution. We applied bespoke veneered panelling and added practical joinery, using the same finish as the surrounding walls to make the fireplace visually disappear while keeping the option to restore it later.
8. Beyond the Fireplace
The wall that frames the fireplace deserves as much attention as the hearth. In some interiors, the most luxurious choice is restraint — keeping the surrounding surfaces clean, allowing the materiality and craftsmanship of the fireplace to shine. A single artwork, sculptural lighting, or a pair of side tables with statement lamps may be all that’s needed.
In contrast, where storage or technology must be integrated, the area around the fireplace becomes an opportunity for creative joinery and thoughtful detailing. Built-in bookcases, niches, or decorative shelving can bring rhythm and practicality without compromising the integrity of the focal point.
When tradition meets transformation
Sometimes, the most rewarding designs are those where the fireplace has been reinterpreted entirely. In a Hampstead kitchen project, we retained two traditional fireplaces in a space that had been reconfigured for modern living. Rather than removing them, we designed the Bulthaup kitchen cabinetry to float gracefully around their niches — merging heritage with sleek, contemporary functionality. The result was both unexpected and deeply satisfying: modern life framed by history.
For me, a well-designed fireplace embodies what great interiors should always achieve — warmth, proportion, and a sense of belonging. It’s where architecture meets atmosphere. Every flicker of light brings the space to life, and every material choice tells a story. Whether you’re designing from scratch or rediscovering an old hearth, treat it as the emotional anchor of your home — a place to gather, slow down, and feel grounded.
Stay inspired, stay sophisticated
