29 Stunning Fireplace Makeover Ideas to Elevate Your Home

BySophia Reynolds Updated
Fireplace Makeover Ideas - Eversofreshly

Is your fireplace looking old or boring? 

A makeover can make it the star of your home! 

In this article, we’ll share simple and creative ideas to refresh your fireplace and make it cozy and stylish. 

Get ready to transform your space. 

Let’s get started!

1. Whitewash the Brick for a Fresh Look

A photo of a bright and airy living room with a modern farmhouse charm. In the center of the room, there is a beautifully minimalist whitewashed brick fireplace with a rustic wooden mantel. The mantel holds a ceramic vase and delicate greenery. There is a cozy sofa upholstered in soft linen near the fireplace. The room has soft natural light streaming through nearby windows.

If your fireplace has outdated red brick, consider whitewashing it for a modern yet rustic look. 

Whitewashing tones down the harsh red hues while keeping the brick’s texture intact. 

This technique creates a softer, more contemporary aesthetic that blends well with various styles, from farmhouse to minimalist. 

Pair it with a sleek mantel for contrast.

2. Install a Floor-to-Ceiling Fireplace Facade

A photo of a living room with a grand floor-to-ceiling fireplace as the focal point. The fireplace is clad in stacked stone from base to ceiling, with a rich wooden mantel at the top. A cozy sofa with plush throw pillows is placed in front of the fireplace. The room has large windows that let in soft, natural light. The high ceilings and light tones of the stone and sofa contrast with the dark wooden mantel.

Make your fireplace the focal point by extending its facade to the ceiling. 

Whether you choose stacked stone, wood paneling, or sleek tile, a floor-to-ceiling design adds drama and height to your space. 

This works exceptionally well in rooms with cathedral ceilings, drawing the eye upward and making the room feel more expansive. 

It also helps balance large, open spaces.

3. Paint It a Bold Color

A cozy living room with a deep navy-blue fireplace. The fireplace is made of painted brick and has a sleek black metal firebox insert. The fireplace stands boldly against crisp white walls. The room has a neutral-toned sofa with contrasting throw pillows. A stylish floor lamp and flickering candlelight on the mantel provide illumination.

A fireplace doesn’t have to be neutral—make a statement with a bold color! 

Deep blues, emerald greens, or even matte black can turn a simple fireplace into a stunning focal point. 

Dark shades create depth and sophistication, while vibrant hues add personality. 

Just ensure the color complements the rest of your decor for a cohesive look. High-gloss finishes add extra drama.

4. Swap Out the Mantel for a Chunky Wood Beam

A fireplace with a chunky reclaimed wood mantel and a traditional brick hearth. The mantel is placed above the hearth. A large vintage mirror leans against the mantel. In front of the fire, a cozy sofa with deep, overstuffed cushions and a knit throw is placed. The overall scene exudes warmth and rustic charm.

A simple mantel swap can make a huge difference. 

Opt for a reclaimed wood beam for a warm, rustic touch, or go with a sleek, floating mantel for a modern twist. 

Thick wood mantels add character, while a minimalist design enhances contemporary spaces. 

The right mantel can define your fireplace’s overall aesthetic while adding practical display space.

5. Install Herringbone Tile for a Classic Touch

A photo of a living room with a sophisticated herringbone tile fireplace makeover. The fireplace has crisp white marble tiles arranged in a classic herringbone pattern. The sleek mantel is adorned with minimalist two ceramic vase. A very cozy sofa in a soft, neutral fabric faces the fireplace, creating a warm and inviting seating area. A flickering fire casts a golden glow over the room.

Herringbone tile patterns add elegance and timeless appeal to any fireplace. 

Whether you choose marble, ceramic, or brick tiles, this pattern elevates the space with a touch of sophistication. 

It works well in both traditional and modern homes, creating visual interest without overpowering the room’s design. 

Consider using contrasting grout for added depth.

6. Add a Shiplap Surround for a Cozy Farmhouse Look

A photo of a modern farmhouse-style living room with a shiplap fireplace makeover as the focal point. The white shiplap panels extend from the mantel to the ceiling, adding texture and brightness. A rustic wooden mantel holds a minimalist framed botanical print and two ceramic vases. A cozy sofa, draped with a chunky knit throw, faces the fireplace. Soft lighting enhances the room's relaxed ambiance.

Shiplap instantly adds warmth and charm to a fireplace surround. 

Whether you paint it crisp white for a clean, coastal look or leave it natural for a rustic feel, shiplap is a timeless option. 

It’s an easy way to enhance a plain fireplace while maintaining a relaxed, inviting atmosphere in your home. 

Pair it with neutral decor for a cohesive feel.

7. Go for a Sleek, Modern Concrete Fireplace

A modern, minimalist concrete fireplace makeover with clean lines and an industrial aesthetic. The smooth gray concrete surround extends seamlessly to the ceiling, giving the space a refined yet edgy look. A streamlined floating wood mantel provides a touch of warmth. Positioned in front of the fire, a very cozy sofa in a deep charcoal hue balances the space, with soft accent pillows adding texture. The room’s dim lighting enhances the moody elegance.

For a contemporary edge, consider a concrete fireplace. 

Concrete offers a minimalist, industrial aesthetic that pairs well with both modern and rustic decor. 

Its smooth texture and neutral color create a stylish focal point without overwhelming the space. 

Concrete also retains heat well, making it a practical choice for warmth. 

Stained or polished concrete can add an extra layer of style.

8. Frame It with Built-in Shelving

A photo of a living room with a built-in shelving fireplace makeover. The symmetrical white shelves frame the fireplace, offering space for books, decorative vases, and sculptural pieces. The dark gray fireplace surround creates a dramatic contrast, making the firebox the focal point. A very cozy sofa with soft linen upholstery sits in the foreground, adorned with textured pillows that echo the warm tones of the wooden mantel.

Surround your fireplace with built-in shelves for both function and style. 

Whether you use them for books, decor, or storage, built-ins create a balanced, finished look. 

White shelving paired with a dark fireplace offers contrast, while wood-toned shelves bring warmth and depth. 

This upgrade enhances the entire wall and maximizes space, making your fireplace even more prominent.

9. Try a Two-Tone Fireplace Design

A medium shot of a living room with a two-tone fireplace makeover. The fireplace has a black tile surround and a crisp white wooden mantel. Above the mantel, a large round mirror reflects soft candlelight. A cozy beige sofa with plush cushions and a faux fur throw sits beside the fireplace. The flickering fire adds to the cozy ambiance of the room.

Mix and match colors or materials to create a two-tone fireplace. 

For instance, a painted brick lower section paired with a wooden upper half creates contrast and texture. 

Another option is using dark tile around the firebox and a light-colored mantel. 

This approach makes the fireplace more dynamic and eye-catching while still fitting seamlessly into any decor style.

10. Incorporate a Metal Fireplace Surround

A photo of a living room with a sleek metal fireplace makeover. The black steel surround adds a bold, architectural presence, contrasting beautifully with the soft, neutral-toned walls. A streamlined wooden mantel breaks up the dark tones, holding two ceramic vases. Positioned in front of the fireplace, a cozy sofa with luxurious velvet upholstery offers the perfect spot to lounge while enjoying the fireplace's warm glow.

Metal adds a sleek, contemporary feel to fireplaces. 

Whether you choose black steel for an industrial look, brushed nickel for a modern touch, or aged copper for a rustic vibe, metal accents can redefine your fireplace. 

Pair it with wood elements for a striking contrast or keep it monochrome for a sleek aesthetic. 

This is an easy upgrade with major impact.

11. Install a Floating Hearth for a Minimalist Look

A refined living space with a sleek floating hearth fireplace makeover, bringing a minimalist, modern touch. The seamless concrete hearth extends outward without visible supports, creating a clean, weightless look. Above, a recessed gas fireplace flickers, radiating warmth. A cozy sofa in a soft, neutral fabric faces the fireplace, adorned with oversized cushions for ultimate relaxation. The subtle lighting and uncluttered design make this an inviting yet contemporary focal point.

A floating hearth extends the fireplace visually without overwhelming the space. 

It provides a place to sit or display decor while keeping the design clean and modern. 

Choose a thick wood slab for warmth, a sleek stone for sophistication, or even concrete for an industrial edge. 

This simple addition enhances both function and style, making your space feel more dynamic.

12. Tile the Hearth for a Stylish Foundation

A cozy living room with a beautifully tiled hearth fireplace. The fireplace has an intricate patterned tile design in subtle blue and gray hues, with a crisp white surround. Above the mantel, there is a large abstract painting. In front of the hearth, there is a sofa with a tufted back and throw pillows. The warm firelight enhances the vibrant details of the tile.

The hearth is just as important as the fireplace itself. 

Upgrading it with patterned tiles, marble slabs, or even brick can add charm and depth. 

Black slate tiles bring sophistication, while Moroccan-style tiles infuse color and personality. 

The right hearth treatment enhances the entire fireplace’s look and helps tie together the room’s overall decor.

13. Install a Glass Fireplace Screen

A living room with a contemporary glass fireplace screen. The fireplace has a frameless tempered glass panel that allows an unobstructed view of the warm, flickering flames. The room has a modern aesthetic, with a cozy sofa upholstered in plush velvet facing the fireplace. There is a soft knit throw draped over the sofa's arm. The room also features metallic accents and a softly glowing floor lamp.

Upgrade your fireplace’s safety and style with a glass screen. 

Unlike traditional metal screens, glass offers a sleek, contemporary look while still protecting against sparks. 

Tinted or frosted glass can add a subtle design element, while clear glass keeps the fire fully visible, making it the true centerpiece of the room. 

This update is both practical and stylish.

14. Create a Faux Fireplace for Instant Character

A living room with a minimalist decor. There's a white wooden mantel and a white stone surround fireplace. Above the mantel, a large flat-screen television is mounted on a shiplap-paneled wall. On either side of the mantel, two identical decorative ceramic vases are symmetrically placed. The fireplace opening is covered with a decorative panel showcasing a collection of circularly cut logs in various sizes, arranged in a tight pattern and framed with dark trim. A cozy sofa, styled with layered throw blankets and textured pillows, faces the fireplace, completing the inviting scene.

Even if your home doesn’t have a working fireplace, you can create a faux version for aesthetic appeal. 

Use an empty mantel as a decorative element and fill the firebox with candles, stacked wood, or even books. 

This trick adds coziness and architectural interest without the need for actual flames, making it perfect for apartments or homes without chimneys.

15. Hang a Statement Mirror Above the Mantel

A photo of a stylish living room with a statement mirror fireplace makeover. The oversized, round mirror with a gold frame reflects natural light, adding depth and elegance to the space. The mantel above the fireplace houses decorative items. A cozy sofa in a rich, cream fabric faces the fireplace, accompanied by a woven throw and soft accent pillows. The crackling fire in the fireplace completes the warm and luxurious ambiance.

A large mirror above the fireplace reflects light and makes the space feel bigger. 

Opt for a round mirror for softness, a vintage gilded frame for elegance, or a modern, geometric shape for contemporary appeal. 

Mirrors enhance natural light and make your fireplace feel grander. 

They also work well in small rooms by creating the illusion of more space.

16. Incorporate LED Lighting for a Dramatic Glow

A modern living room with a dark, textured stone fireplace. The fireplace has a sophisticated LED-lit makeover, with subtle LED strip lighting running along the recessed edges. The lighting casts a soft ambient glow. Near the fireplace, there is a very cozy sofa in a deep charcoal hue. The sofa's plush cushions are illuminated by the flickering flames. The room's dim lighting and contemporary décor heighten the dramatic effect.

LED lighting can transform your fireplace, especially at night. 

Install strip lighting under the mantel, behind a floating hearth, or even inside built-in shelving for a soft glow. 

This subtle touch highlights architectural details and enhances the fireplace’s ambiance. 

Choose warm white lighting for a cozy atmosphere or colored LED lights for a modern, customizable look.

17. Add a Waterfall Edge to the Hearth

A photo of a contemporary living room with a chic waterfall-edge hearth fireplace. The fireplace has a sleek, architectural design and is made of seamless marble. The marble extends down the sides of the fireplace, creating a continuous, sculptural look. The white and gray veining of the marble adds a touch of luxury. A cozy sofa in a muted taupe fabric faces the fireplace, inviting relaxation with its deep cushions and stylish accent pillows. The soft lighting enhances the elegant yet approachable design.

A waterfall edge extends the hearth down the sides for a continuous, seamless look. 

This works particularly well with materials like marble, quartz, or concrete, giving the fireplace a modern and high-end aesthetic. 

It’s a small detail that makes a big design impact. 

The uninterrupted flow of material makes the fireplace feel more luxurious and refined.

18. Frame the Fireplace with Bold Wallpaper

A living room with a striking wallpaper fireplace makeover. The deep emerald-green wallpaper with gold accents frames the fireplace beautifully, creating a dramatic contrast against the crisp white mantel. Above the hearth, a round mirror reflects soft lighting. A very cozy sofa, covered in soft velvet, faces the fireplace, its deep cushions providing the perfect spot to enjoy the warm fire. The wallpaper’s bold presence makes the space feel artistic and inviting.

Wallpapering the fireplace wall adds texture and personality. 

Choose a bold pattern, like florals, geometric shapes, or textured prints, to make the fireplace a true statement piece. 

This is an excellent way to refresh your fireplace without committing to permanent structural changes. 

Peel-and-stick wallpaper allows for easy updates if you ever want a new look.

19. Install a Double-Sided Fireplace for Open Concept Living

A photo of a modern open-concept living space with a double-sided fireplace. The glass-enclosed firebox allows visibility from both sides, seamlessly connecting the living and dining areas. A sleek black metal frame adds a modern touch, while a textured stone surround provides warmth. A very cozy sofa with low-profile seating faces the fireplace, adorned with soft cushions and a fur throw. The ambient glow of the flames enhances the sophisticated, inviting atmosphere.

If your home has an open floor plan, a double-sided fireplace can divide spaces while maintaining warmth and connectivity. 

This sleek, modern feature adds visual appeal from both sides, creating a luxurious ambiance in multiple rooms at once. 

A glass-enclosed double-sided fireplace allows light to flow through while still providing warmth and charm.

20. Transform Your Fireplace with Stacked Stone

A photo of a cozy retreat with a stacked stone fireplace. The fireplace is made of natural stone in varying shades of beige and gray, extending from floor to ceiling. The rustic wooden mantel holds two vases. Positioned in front of the hearth, a cozy sofa in warm, neutral tones provides the perfect place to unwind. The flickering fire casts a golden glow over the entire room, enhancing its rustic charm.

Stacked stone adds incredible texture and dimension to a fireplace, creating a dramatic focal point. 

Whether you opt for light gray, deep charcoal, or warm beige tones, stacked stone suits various design aesthetics, from rustic to contemporary. 

This natural material pairs beautifully with wood mantels or metal accents, making the fireplace feel rich and inviting. 

For a cohesive look, extend the stone to the ceiling.

21. Add a Reclaimed Wood Beam Mantel for Rustic Charm

A photo of a cozy living space with a reclaimed wood beam fireplace makeover. The thick, weathered wood mantel adds warmth and character, contrasting beautifully with the crisp white shiplap surround. Above the mantel, a large artwork adds a vintage touch. A very cozy sofa, upholstered in soft linen, faces the fireplace, adorned with textured throw pillows and a chunky knit blanket. The flickering fire casts a golden glow, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.

Reclaimed wood brings character and warmth to a fireplace. 

A thick, weathered beam above the firebox creates a striking contrast against stone, brick, or shiplap. 

The imperfections, knots, and natural patina of reclaimed wood add authenticity to farmhouse, cottage, or industrial spaces. 

Pair it with vintage decor for a cozy ambiance or keep it minimal for a modern touch.

22. Install a Linear Gas Fireplace for a Modern Aesthetic

A photo of a living room with a sleek linear gas fireplace. The fireplace is made of smooth concrete and stretches across the wall. Above the fireplace, there's a floating shelf with minimalist décor. There's a cozy sofa in a neutral gray fabric facing the fireplace. The room has clean lines and warm lighting.

A linear gas fireplace offers a sleek, contemporary design with clean lines and an elongated shape. 

It works well in minimalist and modern interiors, creating an understated yet luxurious feel. 

These fireplaces often feature glass pebbles, ceramic logs, or LED lighting for added ambiance. 

A recessed installation keeps the look flush with the wall, making it a seamless architectural element.

23. Incorporate a Fireplace Niche for Extra Storage

A photo of a stylish living room with a modern fireplace. There are built-in niches on either side of the fireplace, holding neatly stacked firewood, decorative books, and ceramic vases. The black tile surround contrasts elegantly with the white built-ins. A cozy sofa with soft cushions and a woven throw sits close by. The warm glow of the fire enhances the inviting ambiance.

Maximize space by building niches into your fireplace wall. 

These recessed shelves provide a stylish way to store firewood, display artwork, or hold decorative pieces. 

A symmetrical design keeps the look balanced, while asymmetrical niches add a unique, artistic element. 

Choose a contrasting paint color or wallpaper inside the niches to highlight them as a design feature.

24. Opt for a Marble Fireplace Surround for Luxury

A luxurious sanctuary with a breathtaking marble fireplace makeover. The white and gray marble surround has a dramatic veining pattern that extends seamlessly to the mantel, exuding opulence. Above the fireplace, a black television enhances the elegance. In front of the fireplace, a cozy navy sofa with gold-accented throw pillows is positioned. The flickering fire's reflection in the polished marble creates a sophisticated yet welcoming glow.

Marble instantly elevates a fireplace, offering timeless elegance and a high-end feel. 

Whether you choose classic white Carrara marble, dramatic black Nero Marquina, or rich green marble, this natural stone makes a stunning statement. 

Polished marble creates a sleek, refined look, while honed marble has a softer, matte finish. 

Pair it with gold or brass accents for extra sophistication.

25. Highlight Your Fireplace with Vertical Wood Slats

A vertical wood slat fireplace makeover has been added to a contemporary space. The rich, natural wood slats extend from the mantel to the ceiling, drawing the eye upward and adding architectural interest. A television is on top of the mantel. The black firebox creates a bold contrast. A very cozy sofa in earthy tones is positioned in front of the fireplace, styled with layered throw pillows and a faux fur blanket. The warm firelight enhances the rich tones of the wood, creating a cozy yet stylish retreat.

Vertical wood slats create a contemporary, textural backdrop for your fireplace. 

This design choice enhances height perception, making rooms feel taller. 

Light wood tones exude Scandinavian warmth, while darker stains offer a dramatic, moody effect. 

The clean, linear look works well in modern, mid-century, or Japandi interiors, offering a perfect blend of minimalism and natural warmth.

26. Install a Mantel-to-Ceiling Mirror for a Glamorous Effect

A chic living room with a grand mantel-to-ceiling mirror fireplace makeover. The oversized mirror, framed in an ornate gold trim, reflects light beautifully, making the space feel airy and elegant. The classic white mantel below holds delicate candlesticks and lush greenery. A cozy sofa in blush pink velvet sits in front of the fireplace and a round coffee table. The fire's warm glow and soft lighting make the space feel effortlessly sophisticated.

A large mirror stretching from the mantel to the ceiling adds elegance and amplifies light. 

This technique makes smaller rooms appear more spacious and highlights architectural details. 

Choose a simple frameless mirror for a contemporary aesthetic or a decorative gilded frame for a vintage, Parisian-inspired look. 

Mirrors reflect both natural and artificial light, brightening up the space beautifully.

27. Convert Your Traditional Fireplace into an Electric One

A photo of a stylish electric fireplace makeover in a once-traditional space. The sleek, glass-encased insert emits a realistic flame effect, and the surround is updated with dark gray shiplap for a modern twist. A cozy sofa in creamy white sits in front, with oversized cushions and a cable-knit throw adding softness. The flickering electric flames create a warm, inviting atmosphere without the mess of a traditional fireplace.

If you love the look of a fireplace but want a low-maintenance, energy-efficient option, consider converting it to an electric fireplace. 

Modern electric models offer realistic flame effects, customizable lighting, and even heat output control. 

They’re perfect for apartments or homes without chimneys, providing ambiance without the hassle of wood or gas. 

Plus, they can be framed with stylish surrounds.

28. Create a Fireplace Gallery Wall for a Personalized Touch

A beautifully curated fireplace gallery wall makeover transforms this living space into a personalized retreat. A collection of framed artwork, black-and-white photographs, and sculptural wall pieces surrounds the fireplace, creating a unique focal point. The neutral-toned mantel holds candles and small decorative accents. A very cozy sofa, styled with eclectic throw pillows, is positioned in front of the fireplace, adding comfort and character. The fire's glow highlights the rich details of the artwork, enhancing the cozy yet artistic vibe.

Instead of a single artwork or mirror above your mantel, turn the entire fireplace wall into a gallery display. 

Mix framed art, vintage finds, sculptural pieces, and family photos for a curated look. 

Vary frame sizes and materials to keep it visually interesting. 

This approach makes the fireplace a deeply personal focal point that tells a story through collected pieces.

29. Decorate with Seasonal Mantel Displays for Year-Round Charm

A photo of a living room with a mantel fireplace. The mantel is decorated with an autumnal garland, pumpkin accents, and warm candlelight. There is a cozy sofa in a neutral taupe color near the fireplace. The sofa has a plaid throw draped over its soft cushions. The flickering fire in the fireplace enhances the seasonal ambiance, making the space feel timelessly inviting.

Refresh your fireplace decor with seasonal styling to keep it feeling fresh year-round. 

In winter, drape evergreen garlands and twinkling lights for a cozy holiday feel. 

Spring calls for floral arrangements and pastel accents, while summer looks great with coastal elements like driftwood and shells. 

In autumn, layer pumpkins, dried leaves, and warm-toned candles for an inviting harvest look.

Wrap Up

A fireplace makeover can transform your home, adding warmth, style, and personality. 

Whether you choose bold colors, sleek materials, or rustic charm, there’s a perfect design for every space. 

Get creative, make it your own, and enjoy the cozy, beautiful upgrade. 

Your dream fireplace is just a makeover away! 

Sophia Reynolds

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