Are you considering adding a fireplace to your living space? If so, you’ll love the 20 stone fireplace ideas outlined in the article below.
This guide walks you through what a stone fireplace is, the benefits of having one in your home, factors when choosing the right stone for your design, as well as 20 ideas for you to incorporate into your renovations.
20 Luxury Statement Stone Fireplace Ideas for your Home
What is a Stone Fireplace?
A stone fireplace is a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to any living room that provides warmth and can also be the focal point of a space. It generally consists of a hearth, back panel, and mantelpiece, which are all made from stone materials.
The stones used in the construction can range from natural fieldstones or manufactured stones like concrete blocks or brick veneer, depending on the desired look and budget.
Benefits of Stone Fireplaces
Warm Atmosphere
Stone fireplaces create a cozy atmosphere that the entire family can enjoy. Natural stone adds a touch of elegance and timelessness to any home. Stone fireplaces are ideal for creating an inviting environment in which everyone can unwind.
Customizable
The material used for a stone fireplace can range from granite to limestone to marble, giving homeowners numerous color and finish options. The fireplace’s size and shape can also be customized. Traditional rectangular designs or more modern-looking curved designs that are sure to add visual interest are available to homeowners.
Increases Value
A home with a stone fireplace can have a significantly higher resale value than one without one. This is especially true in cold climates, where the additional heat from the stone fireplace provides comfort and convenience during the colder months.
Long-lasting
Stone fireplaces can last for decades if properly maintained, outlasting other materials in terms of time and wear. Stone is a very strong material that does not crack or break easily when put under pressure, making it an excellent choice for a fireplace surround.
Types of Stone Used in Fireplace Designs
Quartzite
Quartzite is a low-maintenance stone option for building your stone fireplace. This stone is durable and comes in hues of white, cream, and gray.
Marble
Marble is a relatively hard material with a smooth and glossy finish, making it perfect for decorative purposes such as stone fireplace surrounds. Since marble comes in many different colors and designs, there are plenty of options to choose from when creating the perfect fireplace surround.
Granite
Granite is one of the most popular materials for stone fireplaces due to its strength and durability. It is a naturally occurring igneous rock which gives it a unique patterning. Granite can be found in a variety of colors ranging from white to black and gray.
Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary rock often used for architectural structures, like stone fireplaces, as it can be cut into thin sheets or carved into shapes. Limestone fireplaces tend to be more affordable than other materials, such as marble or granite, while still being attractive and durable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stone for Your Fireplace
- Budget – Decide what you’re willing to invest in your stone fireplace. If you’re working with a tight budget, choose stones that are affordable while still maintaining their durability.
- Maintenance – Decide whether or not you want to spend time maintaining your stone fireplace. Some stones are scratch-resistant, while others may need to be sealed to maintain quality.
- Size – Consider the size and height you want your fireplace to be installed. For larger walls, you may want your fireplace positioned off the ground. Smaller spaces may require your fireplace to be minimal and installed at the floor’s base.
20 Stone Fireplace Ideas that Will Make a Statement
1.) Use Distressed Stone
A distressed stone fireplace is a great way to add visual texture and dimension to a space. The raw imperfections of a natural stone create an aged, rustic look that will give the room a unique charm.
2.) Cover Your Fireplace and Surrounding Wall In the Same Marble Stone
Marble is is a great material for covering a wall behind a fireplace because of its natural beauty and durability. You can create a striking stone fireplace design by using marble on the fireplace and surrounding walls.
Not only will your marble fireplace surround help blend the structure, but the design of the stone you select can perfectly complement your home’s overall décor.
3.) Use Varying Sizes of Stone from Floor to Ceiling
Using floor-to-ceiling stones of varying sizes for a fireplace can create a unique and dramatic look. Different-sized stones can make an open-concept design more interesting and create an appealing texture.
4.) Use a Unique Design for Stone Placement
Many options are available when considering a unique design for stone placement in a fireplace. One option is to create an asymmetrical pattern with the stones, creating an eye-catching contrast against the linear lines of the fireplace frame. Another option is to use complementary colors and textures of stones that contrast.
5.) Position Your Stone Fireplace Off the Ground
Build a rustic natural stone fireplace that grabs the attention of the room by creating a floor-to-ceiling slate wall and positioning your fireplace off the ground. The height of a stacked stone fireplace will give it a greater sense of grandeur and presence for a sleek design and also provide a sturdy foundation for the firebox. It also serves as a barrier between your floor and any sparks that may escape from the fire itself.
6.) Go with a Two-Tone Marble Look and Create a Border
Consider framing the firebox of a marble fireplace with a different marble border. Not only will you get a two-toned color scheme to base decorating ideas on, but you’ll also get an extra bit of dimension to an otherwise simple design.
7.) Choose a Horizontal Fireplace Design
A horizontal fireplace is a great choice for long walls. They are perfect for fireplaces with limited space and provide a stylish, modern look, even with a classic white mantel.
8.) Corner Fireplaces Add Personality to Your Space
A corner marble fireplace adds a unique touch to any interior space. Its placement in the corner of a room can efficiently use otherwise unused space and can be used to separate two distinct areas in an open floor plan.
9.) Use a Diamond-Shaped Stone
Diamond-shaped stones can create a unique and eye-catching design on a stone fireplace. Using this shape will help draw attention to the fireplace, making it the room’s focal point.
10.) Install a Detached Fireplace Against a Floor to Ceiling Stone Wall
When installing a detached fireplace against a floor-to-ceiling stone wall, it is important to consider the unit’s weight and ensure the wall can hold the extra weight. Another thing to take into consideration is proper ventilation for proper fire safety.
11.) Choose a Stone Fireplace With Doors
Stone fireplaces with doors are a great option for those who want the look of a real stone fireplace but also need the convenience and safety of a fire screen. Fireplace doors come in many styles, from traditional metals to more modern glass designs, and offer an extensive selection of finishes, including brushed nickel, bronze, iron, copper, and more.
12.) Color Match Your Fireplace To Your Living Space
When choosing colors for stone fireplaces, several factors must be considered. First, you’ll want to look at the existing colors in your living room. Are they neutral and subtle or bold and warm? If you have a neutral living room, consider adding a pop of color with one of the vibrant shades of stone for your fireplace.
13.) Add a Platform Below Your Fireplace
Placing a platform below stone fireplaces is a great way to add extra space and functionality. It can be used for additional seating, storage, or even a place to display décor. Constructing the platform is relatively easy and requires minimal carpentry skills.
14.) Place a TV Above Your Fireplace
Mounting a television on a natural stone fireplace above a floating shelf mantel is a great way to create an aesthetically pleasing focal point in any living room. This can be done safely and securely using appropriate hardware and careful installation. Consider placing a rustic wood mantel on a natural stone fireplace for an organic design style.
15.) Use Solid Stone
Solid stone is a great way to blend in with your wall when creating a fireplace. Not only does a solid natural stone fireplace offer a beautiful and timeless look, but it also provides the added benefit of durability. With its ability to withstand high temperatures and heavy use, using solid stone is perfect for fireplaces and other areas that experience extreme heat or cold.
16.) Choose a Fireplace Without Walls
A wall-less fireplace made of marble stone can make a stunning focal point in any room. With no walls, the fire is left open and visible from all angles. This makes for an interesting and inviting atmosphere for entertaining family and friends.
17.) Add a Stone Wall Above Your Fireplace
Adding a stone wall above your fireplace is an excellent way to give it a dramatic, rustic flair. It’s also an ideal way to take your design aesthetic to the next level. You can create a striking contrast between the brick or wood of the lower portion and the natural stone of the upper.
18.) Get Monochromatic With Paint on Stone
An already existing fireplace may seem outdated with older, marble-colored tiles or artificial stones like brick. So, adding a fresh coat of paint to your stone fireplace can be just what your room needs to create a unique style.
Go for a monochromatic look by painting the stone fireplace surround, hearth, mantel, and walls the same color. The matching stone on the fireplace to the rest of the space provides an excellent backdrop for you to get creative with color.
Take it a step further and choose from bold and vibrant hues or soft and subtle shades, depending on the desired atmosphere in the room.
19.) Mimic Wood With Earth Tones
Earth-tone stones can be used to mimic wood when creating a natural stone fireplace. Stones such as sandstone and limestone, which come in shades of brown, taupe, and cream, offer the look of wood for a natural focal point, without worrying about combustibility.
Slate is a great choice for those who want to go for a darker hue with more impact. Shades of grey run throughout this stone, giving the impression that cooler tones are present even when not.
20.) Use Stones in Their Natural State
Using stones in their raw shape is an ideal way to create a stunning stone fireplace. A natural stone fireplace has its own individual texture, color, and character that can’t be replicated with man-made materials. It’s also durable and easy to maintain, making it the perfect choice for many different living rooms.
FAQ
What is the average cost for a stone fireplace?
The average cost of a stone fireplace starts at $3,500 – $5,000.
Stone Fireplace Pricing Factors
- Gas or Wood – these fireplaces operate differently and require varying installation practices and maintenance.
- Overall Design – a more intricately designed fireplace comes at a high price point.
- Authentic Stone vs. Manufactured – authentic stone is more costly than manufactured stone.
- Fireplace Location – the location of your fireplace requires different degrees of work, affecting the overall price of the job.
What is the most expensive stone for a fireplace?
Marble is the most expensive stone for fireplaces due to its longevity, shipping costs, labor, and durability.
What is the cheapest stone for a fireplace?
Manufactured stone is the most affordable option for fireplaces.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve discovered 20 stone fireplace ideas, hopefully, you’re ready to take the next step in your renovations. Adding a fireplace made of stone to your living space is a wonderful way to add a layer of coziness and sophistication.
Some stone fireplaces are minimal and require less maintenance than others. While others are more extravagant, modern, and carry a higher price tag.
Use the tips outlined in the article to help you decide on a fireplace that best suits your needs, budget, and overall design aesthetic.
