36+ Best Stone Fireplace Ideas And Designs

When it comes to fireplaces, the aesthetic appeal is just as important as their purpose. The material used in fireplaces has a significant impact on the overall ambiance of a room, setting the tone for a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Stone fireplaces, in particular, are a timeless choice that can add warmth and character to any home. With their rugged, natural beauty, stone fireplaces can create a sense of rustic elegance that’s hard to match.

In this post, we’ll explore 36 different stone fireplace ideas, covering various styles, textures, and design combinations that will inspire you to create your own unique focal point.

Types of stone for fireplace

When it comes to selecting the perfect stone for a fireplace surround, many homeowners are drawn to the natural beauty of stone options. However, not all stones are created equal when it comes to withstanding the heat and flames of a traditional wood fireplace. While some stones can crack or deteriorate under such conditions, others possess the durability and heat resistance needed to thrive in this environment.

Among the most popular choices for stone fireplaces are limestone, slate, granite, marble, and soapstone.

Limestone, while an affordable option, is typically reserved for electric or gas fireplaces due to its potential to crack under the intense heat of a traditional wood fireplace. Slate, on the other hand, boasts exceptional durability and high heat resistance, making it suitable only for electric or gas fireplaces.

Granite, a mid-tier priced option, offers a versatile combination of durability and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for any type of fireplace. This stone is available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes.

Marble, while softer than granite, still possesses the same level of durability and heat resistance. It can be used for various types of fireplaces and is prized for its polished, unpolished, or textured finish, which comes in many colors and patterns.

Marble’s higher price point reflects its unique characteristics and versatility.

Soapstone, with its distinctive soapy texture and gray-green tones, has earned a special place in the hearts of many homeowners. This volcanic stone is made under high heat and pressure, rendering it extremely durable and suitable for any type of fireplace.

While more expensive than limestone and granite, soapstone’s unique characteristics make it a sought-after choice for those seeking a truly distinctive stone surround.

36 stone fireplace ideas

A warm and inviting fireplace is often the crowning glory of any home. As you begin searching for the perfect stone fireplace to add a touch of coziness to your space, consider these standout designs that span various styles and genres. From rustic charm to sleek sophistication, we’ve curated a selection of stone fireplace ideas to inspire your search.

Stacked stone fireplace ideas

While stacked stone fireplaces are breathtakingly beautiful, they can also provide a striking contrast to the crackling flames. In this example, a fireplace wall crafted from fieldstones boasts an earthy, outdoorsy aesthetic that adds significant visual appeal to a transition room, creating a sense of separation and definition.

The unique charm of these unpatterned, carefully trimmed stones lies in their raw beauty, making them an ideal focal point for any living room.

Similarly, opting for a stacked river stone fireplace can result in a modern farmhouse-inspired space that exudes cohesiveness and visual harmony.

In this particular setup, the arrangement of white, gray, and beige riverstones against a crisp white backdrop yields a clean, streamlined look. The brick hearth serves as a subtle yet effective nod to traditional farmhouse design.

Outdoor stone fireplace ideas

Imagine a serene outdoor oasis, where the warmth of a crackling fire meets the serenity of nature. A stone fireplace outdoors can be the ultimate cozy retreat, elevating your home’s ambiance to new heights. The traditional charm of wood and flame, surrounded by inviting seating, is the perfect recipe for a warm and welcoming space. In the backdrop of winter frost, this setup takes on a dramatic flair, evoking feelings of warmth and comfort.

The carefully crafted flagstones surrounding the fireplace provide a sense of containment, while the soft glow of string lights, a wooden pergola, and minimalist seating combine to create a luxurious, old-world atmosphere. This idyllic setting can be replicated in even the largest estates, where an all-stone fireplace enclosure serves as a standalone nook amidst lush greens. The striking contrast between natural tones and earthy hues creates a sense of timelessness and luxury.

The use of stacked cobblestones for pillars and fireplace, paired with polished stone flooring, exudes opulence and sophistication. As you sit back and bask in the warmth, it’s easy to imagine this space as your own personal sanctuary.

Stone fireplace ideas with TV

A stone fireplace wall or surround can be elevated with a built-in or mounted TV, infusing a modern touch into a living room. This setup not only provides an inviting space for family gatherings but also encourages bonding over entertainment or quiet moments spent sharing stories around the fireplace.

For a more rustic, lodge-inspired ambiance, incorporating large river stones stacked in gaps using concrete above the fireplace can achieve this look.

This design works equally well in compact living rooms, fostering a cozy and snuggly atmosphere throughout the room. The juxtaposition of natural tones adds a delightful touch.

Another option is to pair a TV with a farmhouse or rustic aesthetic, characterized by distressed brick stone walls, wood mantles, and rustic accents. This setup provides a charming separation between the electric fireplace and the TV. The warm tones in the room further enhance the rustic ambiance.

Both the fireplace and TV serve as focal points, positioned thoughtfully to create a harmonious space.

Stone fireplace surround ideas

When it comes to creating a stunning focal point in your living room, a stone fireplace surround is an excellent choice. The versatility of stone surrounds allows you to achieve any desired aesthetic, from sleek and modern to rustic and cozy. For instance, a marble surround featuring natural stripes and patterns can transport you to the rolling hills of Turkey or Greece, where these unique formations are found.

The subtle contrast between light and dark tones creates a visually striking effect that’s sure to draw attention. If you’re looking for a more laid-back, country-inspired look without overpowering the space, consider a sandstone plank surround. The rugged texture and earthy tone of the planks provide a stylish yet understated accent to your room, while also complementing contemporary elements like glass or metal fixtures.

Ultimately, the right stone fireplace surround can strike the perfect balance between rustic charm and modern sophistication, adding depth and character to any living space.

Stone fireplace wall ideas

Exemplary fireplace walls can create a design separation in the home, adding texture and color to the room while drawing attention to the fireplace as the focal point of the living area. The harmonious blend of old school stonework, interlocking limestones with jagged edges, and modern design elements creates a sophisticated ambiance.

For instance, a stair wall feature incorporating an electric fireplace offers an unobstructed view of the room from the landing and a glimpse of the second floor above, exuding warmth and elegance. In high-ceiling living rooms, a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace wall can be breathtakingly majestic when balanced with neutral tones. A striking example is the combination of light gray walls, white window trims, and a dark gray floor-to-ceiling fireplace wall complemented by a wooden mantle.

The symmetry between the TV and electric fireplace adds to the overall neatness of this stacked stone feature, creating a visually pleasing space.

Stone veneer fireplace ideas

While the composition of veneers from cement and stone aggregates may not immediately evoke thoughts of stunning fireplaces, they can indeed be breathtaking when used in this context. The raw, jagged edges of natural stone and its unaltered colors combine to create a unique visual experience.

This charcoal gray and black ledge veneer fireplace surround is a prime example, featuring an interlocking form held together with stone glue.

Its dark contrast makes it a striking focal point in this compact living room, creating the illusion of more space and airiness. The addition of a wooden mantle and retro artwork above only adds to its charm.

Another iteration of this design aesthetic can be seen in the travertine stacked stone veneer fireplace surround.

This warm, rustic twist on a small living room is achieved through the use of earthy tones like beige, tan, and cream against a backdrop of white walls, polished stone flooring, and large carpet. The result is a cozy, inviting atmosphere that’s hard to ignore.

Modern stone fireplace ideas

Modern stone fireplaces are renowned for their sleek designs, symmetrical lines, and unorthodox arrangements of polished or rough-textured stones. The perfect blend of elegance and eccentricity, these structures exude a sense of luxury and sophistication. One exemplary design features an all-glass wall offering breathtaking city views, minimalist décor, and a gas stone fireplace constructed from stacked, interlocking granite.

This in-wall fireplace is the epitome of relaxation, providing a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In contrast, some modern stone fireplaces opt for a more understated approach. Take, for instance, this seaside home’s use of polished marble as an enclosure or surround for its central electric fireplace. The minimalism of the fireplace itself allows it to serve as a versatile focal point that can be easily repositioned and rearranged to suit your desired layout.

As with any modern design, the key is balance. By combining clean lines, sophisticated materials, and clever arrangements, you can create a stone fireplace that not only provides warmth but also becomes the centerpiece of your home’s aesthetic.

Fireplace hearth stone ideas

In terms of fireplace hearths, continuity is key to a harmonious design. To achieve this cohesion, it’s crucial to use the same stone material for both the enclosure and the extended hearth, thereby maintaining a consistent tone throughout. This approach ensures that the fireplace remains the focal point while the surrounding area remains visually appealing.

This particular design scheme effectively combines wood and stained flagstones, with the white wooden mantle serving as a stylish contrast to the darker stone surround. As the mantel extends into an outer enclosure, it subtly draws attention away from the hearth, allowing the fireplace to take center stage.

For a more modern, chalet-inspired living room, this design features rugged flagstone stacks that rise up to meet the hearth.

The black wooden mantle adds a bold touch, while the ornate iron screen surrounding the gas fireplace introduces an element of sophistication.

What’s often overlooked is that fireplace hearths don’t need to be overly wide or large to make a statement. By incorporating colorful wall art and task lighting into the design, you can create a visually appealing space that’s both cozy and inviting.

Stone fireplace mantel ideas

A mantel serves more than just aesthetic purposes when added to a fireplace. Its functional aspect is often overlooked, as it can be used as a floating shelf for decorations and accent pieces, creating separation between the decors and the fireplace itself. For a complete look on a corner stone fireplace wall, a simple wooden mantel in a matching mahogany color can be mounted directly onto the stone wall, with minimal accent decors lined up neatly underneath.

This harmonious combination is further enhanced by the uniformity of the exposed beam’s color. Alternatively, for a traditional wood and stone fireplace combo, a classy wooden mantel style can be used as both the outer enclosure and mantel for the polished granite stone fireplace surround. The stone design extends to the hearth, creating a cohesive look that is visually appealing.

When incorporating a polished marble tile with interlocked stones resembling old school brickwork, a reclaimed wood mantel adds a rustic touch on top of the fireplace surround. This combination produces a clean and inviting atmosphere, while the darker color schemes of the stone fireplace and reclaimed wood evoke a cozy suburban chic style, enhanced by the white piece and beige jute rug.

Painted stone fireplace ideas

To give your living room’s stone materials and colors a perfect match, you can actually paint the stones in your fireplace. However, it’s crucial to use high-heat resistant latex paint to achieve the desired result. This creative approach allows for endless customization options. For instance, take the refurbished corner fireplace that was once a dull gray but now boasts a sleek, textured finish after being painted with black latex paint.

The result is a stunning match for those industrial-style candelabras on mounted stone mantels. Alternatively, you can add a thin layer of white latex paint to your granite stone fireplace wall for a luxurious tone. This floor-to-ceiling masterpiece can be accessorized with any decorative element, making the central fireplace the focal point. The beauty of simplicity is perfectly captured in this look.

If you prefer the classic charm of brick fireplaces, consider modernizing it by painting it with dark mahogany tones and adding bright white grout between the bricks. This combination yields a glamorous herringbone pattern that’s both traditional and sophisticated.

Stone and shiplap fireplace ideas

The trendiness of shiplap walls in interior designs today is undeniable, with their tight, interlocking wooden boards forming vertical lines that create a unique visual appeal. When combined with the natural beauty of stone, such as in a stone and shiplap fireplace, the result is truly phenomenal. A harmonious blend of neutral tones can be achieved by pairing white shiplap walls with a dark gray granite fireplace surround, creating a polished design that exudes sophistication.

Alternatively, lighter gray walls paired with white window trims evoke a relaxed, rustic ambiance, which can be further enhanced by selecting furniture pieces that complement the overall aesthetic. Conversely, fusing shiplap walls with painted limestone fireplaces offers a striking visual contrast between the smooth texture of the shiplap and the rugged, glossy surface of the limestone.

This unique combination can add a touch of elegance to any living room design, as demonstrated by an all-white stone fireplace.

Natural stone fireplace ideas

Natural stone fireplaces exude an undeniable charm with their rugged textures, varied colors, and organic shapes. One of the greatest advantages is the sheer versatility they offer in terms of design and layout options. For a cozy compact living room, consider combining stacked stones with side cabinets and a white wood mantel to create a visually striking focal point. This rustic-inspired setup is sure to become a favorite gathering spot.

On the other hand, for a bold statement piece in an upscale living room, a natural stone fireplace wall featuring wood segments and a rectangular electric fireplace can be a game-changer. The multi-colored granite stone adds a cool, contemporary touch to this warm-toned space, making it a true showstopper.

Corner stone fireplace ideas

A corner stone fireplace is an excellent solution for asymmetrical living rooms, compact spaces, or those seeking an angled aesthetic. The use of stones in this design never goes out of style, as it creates a standout focal point in an otherwise dry room. For instance, a cabin-style living room might feature a rustic, irregularly shaped corner fireplace made from irregularly trimmed stone slabs.

The brick stone mantel and hearth, paired with the iron casing of the fireplace, provide a balanced look amidst the rich brown tones of all-wood surroundings, resulting in a warm, cozy, and intimate atmosphere. To take it to the next level, consider an open, electric corner fireplace featuring manufactured herringbone-style faux stones, offering a modern ambiance that seamlessly transitions between the living room and dining area.

Alternatively, angle a stone fireplace in your bedroom to maximize the space and add depth and texture. This design combines stacked flagstones with a thick, reclaimed wood mantle, evoking a Mediterranean look reminiscent of a crackling fire. The mix-and-match materials create a unique warmth that rivals the gas fireplace’s flame.

Contemporary stone fireplace ideas

Contemporary designs often rely heavily on neutral hues like gray, white, and beige to create a sense of calmness and sophistication. In the context of stone fireplaces, this approach can be taken to new heights by incorporating bold, contrasting colors that add visual interest. For instance, a stunning example features an interlocking pattern of blue, white, gray, and yellow limestones that adds a touch of whimsy to the overall design.

The addition of side stone mantels and an elevated hearth only serves to elevate the space further, creating a sense of grandeur. The dark brown wood mantel that separates the fireplace from the TV is a thoughtful touch, adding warmth and texture to the overall aesthetic.

The use of glass walls has long been a hallmark of industrial design, offering a sleek and modern take on traditional materials.

By incorporating natural light, creating an illusion of space, and imparting an airy feel, this design element can truly transform a room. In this contemporary living room, a thick, painted granite fireplace wall serves as the focal point, featuring a traditional fire and wood fireplace that adds warmth and coziness. The judicious use of warm-toned neutrals helps to round out the space, imbuing it with an overall sense of polish and sophistication.

In another iteration of this design theme, the stone fireplace wall is taken to new heights by extending its reach across a corner of the living room. The result is a visually striking focal point that draws the eye and adds depth to the space. Paired with thick, multi-paned windows, gray flooring, and chic furniture, this central electric fireplace becomes the perfect blend of modernity and coziness.

Traditional stone fireplace ideas

Traditional fireplaces typically feature a curved base and columnar top that directs smoke towards the chimney. Historically, they were constructed from bricks and natural stone slabs, but modern variations often incorporate staining techniques. The featured example adheres to this classic template, utilizing stained natural stones with bright white grout. The stacked design, paired with an extended hearth, creates a unique blend of rustic and coastal aesthetics.

This style of stone fireplace is reminiscent of traditional lodge designs, offering a charming contrast to the warm, rich tones of the surrounding all-wood cabin living room. The addition of an iron casing on the traditional wood-burning fire adds an extra layer of visual appeal.

Cultured stone fireplace ideas

Cultured stones are engineered alternatives to natural stones, comprising aggregate and concrete cladding designed for lightweight versions with a realistic appearance. When considering cultured stone options for your fireplace, here are some key elements to keep in mind.

The first example showcases multicolored cultured stones arranged like large river rocks, creating a trendy focal point on a central fireplace wall paired with a reclaimed wood mantle that adds a rustic touch.

The juxtaposition of textures and colors creates an intriguing visual contrast.

In the second instance, jagged granite interlocking stones are used to create a striking design. A wooden wall serves as the perfect complement to this look, while vertical wooden siding for the stone fireplace wall provides a striking accent. The addition of a wooden mantel strikes a balance in the overall aesthetic, and the iron casing of the fireplace adds an elegant touch.

FAQs

How much does it cost to put up a stone fireplace?

The cost of a stone fireplace installation varies greatly depending on the type of stone used, design, and dimensions of the project. For instance, a stone veneer fireplace typically ranges from $60 to $80 per square foot. Natural stones, on the other hand, can be more costly, falling within the $100 to $300 per square foot price range. A comprehensive masonry fireplace installation, including materials and labor, may set you back anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000.

Does a stone fireplace add value to your home?

While any fireplace can offer a significant return on investment (ROI), stone fireplaces tend to stand out for their exceptional value-addition to a home. In fact, contractors and real estate professionals alike would argue that the ROI for stone fireplaces is even higher than that of standard fireplaces, with some estimates suggesting a whopping 110-130% ROI.

The National Association of Realtors also corroborates this notion, noting that homes equipped with stone fireplaces can expect to see a guaranteed 12% boost in overall value. This increased value is likely due to the unique aesthetic and ambiance that stone fireplaces bring to a space.

Conclusion

The possibilities for customizing a stone fireplace are truly endless. Not only can you select from an array of stone options, but the design choices for stacking or framing them offer an equally impressive scope of creativity. The unique appeal of a stone fireplace lies not just in its aesthetic charm, but also in the sense of warmth and welcoming it evokes. Rustic, yet elegant, a well-designed stone fireplace creates an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering with loved ones.

From a practical standpoint, it can even boost the resale value of your property should you decide to sell in the future. Ultimately, having a cozy, standout nook like this is well worth the investment.

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