30 Cozy Brick Fireplace Ideas for a Warm and Stylish Space

BySophia Reynolds Updated
Brick Fireplace Ideas - Eversofreshly

Want to make your brick fireplace look amazing? 

There are so many ways to style it, from classic designs to modern makeovers. 

In this article, we’ll share creative ideas to transform your fireplace into a beautiful centerpiece for your home. 

Let’s get started!

1. Paint It Sleek Black

A contemporary living room with a black brick fireplace as the focal point. The deep matte black bricks contrast against the crisp white walls, creating a modern and sophisticated look. A sleek wooden mantel holds a mix of decorative vases and framed artwork. Facing the fireplace, a cozy sofa in soft gray fabric is adorned with plush throw pillows and a chunky knit blanket, enhancing the inviting ambiance. A brass floor lamp beside the sofa adds warmth, while a textured area rug grounds the space, making it feel chic yet comfortable.

A black brick fireplace exudes sophistication and drama, making it a striking focal point in any room. 

Whether matte or glossy, black paint transforms old brick into a modern masterpiece. 

Pair it with gold or brass accents for a luxe touch, or contrast it with crisp white walls for a bold, contemporary aesthetic.

2. Keep It Classic Red Brick

A photo of a rustic-style living room with a traditional red brick fireplace. The fireplace has a thick reclaimed wood mantel and holds antique candle holders. In front of the fireplace, there's a cozy sofa with linen upholstery. On top of the mantel, there's a television. The room has a soft, woven area rug and exposed wooden ceiling beams. A crackling fire is inside the brick fireplace, completing the cozy and nostalgic atmosphere.

Red brick fireplaces never go out of style, adding timeless warmth and rustic charm to any space. 

Embrace their natural beauty by sealing them for a clean look, or enhance their coziness with wood beam mantels, vintage artwork, and plush furnishings. 

This style works well in farmhouses, industrial, or traditional interiors.

3. Whitewash for a Soft Touch

A bright and airy living room with a whitewashed brick fireplace as the focal point. A cozy sofa with a chunky knit throw in soft beige is placed near the fireplace. A rustic wooden mantel holds a mix of ceramic vases and dried flowers. The fireplace emits a soft, golden glow, making the room inviting. A neutral-toned area rug complements the weathered texture of the bricks, fitting the farmhouse-inspired aesthetic.

Whitewashing a brick fireplace creates a charming, airy feel while still allowing the brick’s natural texture to shine through. 

This technique is perfect for those who love a hint of rustic character without the heaviness of full brick. 

It pairs beautifully with neutral tones, Scandinavian décor, and minimalist aesthetics.

4. Opt for a German Smear

A cozy living space with a German smear brick fireplace. The fireplace has a white mortar-covered brick and a reclaimed wood mantel. The mantel holds an assortment of vases and an oversized painting. There is a soft, ambient lighting that highlights the fireplace's rich texture. A very cozy sofa, upholstered in soft linen with oversized cushions, faces the fireplace.

The German smear technique gives a fireplace an old-world European charm with a rough, hand-applied mortar finish. 

This rustic treatment softens the harshness of red brick and creates a weathered, timeworn look reminiscent of European countryside homes. 

It pairs beautifully with farmhouses, cottages, and vintage interiors.

5. Install a Wooden Beam Mantel

A cozy living room with a rustic wooden beam mantel atop a striking brick fireplace. A deep, plush sofa with earth-toned cushions faces the fireplace. Above the sofa, a large television serves as a decorative focal point. Beneath the sofa, a plain distressed wooden coffee table sits on a soft, earth-toned rug.

A thick wooden beam mantel adds instant warmth and personality to a brick fireplace. 

Whether you opt for reclaimed wood for a rustic touch or a sleek stained beam for a modern contrast, this simple addition makes a bold statement. 

It’s perfect for displaying decor, from candles to seasonal garlands.

6. Modernize With Concrete Surrounds

A photo of a living room with a sleek, contemporary concrete surround framing a classic brick fireplace. The room has an industrial and modern aesthetic. There's a cozy sofa facing the fireplace, adorned with stylish, neutral-toned throw pillows. The smooth gray concrete contrasts beautifully with the rugged texture of the bricks. Above the mantel, a minimalistic large black television adds a sophisticated touch. A round gray coffee table sits atop a monochrome-patterned rug. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to highlight the fireplace's clean, structured look.

For an industrial-chic upgrade, frame your brick fireplace with a sleek concrete surround. 

The combination of raw brick and smooth concrete creates a striking contrast that feels both edgy and elegant. 

Pair it with minimalist furniture, neutral tones, and metal accents for a truly contemporary aesthetic.

7. Go Monochrome With Gray Paint

A chic gray brick fireplace adds a sophisticated, muted elegance to a contemporary living room. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, covered in soft, textured fabric with an assortment of neutral and deep-blue throw pillows. Above the sleek wooden mantel, an oversized plain large television. The room's subtle color palette of grays, whites, and warm browns ties the space together, creating a cozy yet refined atmosphere.

A gray brick fireplace offers a stylish, sophisticated look that blends seamlessly into both modern and traditional interiors. 

Light gray creates a soft, airy vibe, while dark charcoal adds moody drama. 

Pair it with natural textures like linen, wool, and wood to keep the space cozy and inviting.

8. Add a Built-In Bookshelf

A cozy living room with a classic brick fireplace flanked by built-in white bookshelves. There's a sofa facing the fireplace, with a soft wool throw draped over the armrest. The shelves are filled with a mix of plain pastel color books, minimalist decorative sculptures, and warm ambient lighting from stylish sconces. Above the mantel, an oversized plain large black television. A rustic round wooden coffee table sits in the center, holding a vase of flowers. The soft flickering glow from the fireplace enhances the inviting charm of this intimate, literary-inspired setting.

Flanking your brick fireplace with built-in bookshelves transforms it into a cozy library-style focal point. 

Whether painted or stained, the shelving provides storage and display space for books, decor, and treasured keepsakes. 

This setup works beautifully in both traditional and contemporary homes.

9. Extend It to the Ceiling

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 a dramatic statement by extending your brick fireplace all the way up to the ceiling. 

This creates a striking architectural feature that adds height and grandeur to your space. 

It works especially well in rooms with vaulted ceilings, making the fireplace the undeniable centerpiece of the room.

10. Embrace an Archway Design

A photo of a cozy Mediterranean-inspired living space with an elegant arched brick fireplace. A soft linen fabric sofa faces the fireplace, complementing the warm, earthy tones of the brick. The arch creates a focal point, drawing attention to the flickering fire within. Above the mantel, an oversized large black television, and a collection of three ceramic vases add an artistic touch. A round wooden beige coffee table with a vase sits atop a textured area rug, completing the cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.

A brick fireplace with an arched firebox opening adds an elegant, old-world charm to any home. 

This timeless design feels cozy and inviting, perfect for traditional or Mediterranean-inspired interiors. 

Pair it with soft textiles, warm lighting, and classic décor to enhance its charm.

11. Try a Two-Tone Look

A photo of a living room with a two-tone brick fireplace as the centerpiece. The upper section of the fireplace is painted white and seamlessly blends into the ceiling. The lower half of the fireplace showcases exposed red brick for a rustic touch. A sleek wooden mantel stretches across the division and is adorned with an oversized framed painting. A cozy sofa upholstered in plush neutral fabric with a textured throw draped over the arm faces the fireplace. A soft area rug grounds the space. Warm lighting from wall sconces enhances the ambiance, creating a perfect balance of modern and traditional elements.

Why settle for one color when you can mix two? 

A two-tone brick fireplace adds depth and contrast to your space. 

Try a painted white upper section with exposed brick below, or a black surround with a natural brick interior. 

This approach adds visual interest while keeping the design cohesive.

12. Frame It With Shiplap

A cozy living room with a charming brick fireplace framed by crisp white shiplap walls. The natural red brick contrasts beautifully against the smooth wooden paneling, while a reclaimed wood mantel holds an assortment of three ceramic vases and potted greenery. Above the mantel, an oversized television is mounted. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, covered in soft linen fabric with decorative pillows in earthy tones. A woven jute rug lies beneath a rustic coffee table, completing the warm and inviting setting. Sunlight filters through sheer curtains, casting a serene glow over the beautifully layered textures in the room.

Pairing a brick fireplace with a shiplap wall creates a beautiful contrast between rustic and refined. 

The combination of textured brick and clean horizontal lines gives your space a fresh farmhouse feel. 

Whether painted white or stained, shiplap adds a cozy yet structured backdrop.

13. Install a Floating Concrete Hearth

A modern living room with a sleek floating concrete hearth paired with a striking brick fireplace. The rich red and brown tones of the exposed brick add warmth, while the smooth, gray concrete extends outward, providing a functional and stylish seating area. Above the fireplace, a minimalist black mantel holds an oversized large abstract painting. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, its deep cushions covered in a soft, neutral fabric with a chunky knit blanket draped over the back. A round glass coffee table with a vase of flowers rests on a textured area rug, adding a touch of refinement to the modern-rustic space.

A floating concrete hearth adds a sleek, modern touch to a brick fireplace. 

The smooth, sculptural element provides a minimalist contrast to the textured brick, making the entire design feel contemporary and sophisticated. 

It’s also a great spot for extra seating or decorative accents.

14. Go for a Distressed Finish

A cozy living room with a whitewashed brick fireplace. The fireplace has a distressed finish and features a thick wooden mantel. An oversized black television is placed on the mantel. A taupe sofa with patterned pillows is positioned to face the fireplace. A warm, golden glow emanates from the flickering fire.

A distressed or aged brick finish adds rustic charm and character, making your fireplace look like it’s been part of the home for generations. 

Achieve this look with light sanding, whitewashing, or a German smear technique. 

It works particularly well in farmhouses, cottages, and industrial spaces.

15. Highlight With Industrial Metal

A photo of a living room with a bold brick fireplace enhanced with industrial metal accents. The fireplace features a blackened steel surround that frames the firebox, giving it a modern, edgy appeal. The exposed red brick contrasts sharply with the dark metal, creating a striking focal point. Overhead, a reclaimed wood mantel supports iron candlesticks and a minimalist vase. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, its deep cushions wrapped in dark charcoal fabric with a leather throw pillow adding a touch of texture. A distressed wood coffee table with a vase of fresh flowers sits atop a geometric rug, reinforcing the industrial-chic aesthetic while maintaining a welcoming and comfortable ambiance.

Give your brick fireplace an industrial edge by incorporating metal elements like an iron mantel, steel surround, or metal accents. 

A black metal fireplace insert adds a sleek, modern touch, while exposed rivets and raw finishes enhance the factory-loft aesthetic.

16. Incorporate Built-In Firewood Storage

A photo of a living room with a grand brick fireplace. The fireplace has a built-in firewood storage with neatly stacked logs in a recessed niche to the side. The classic red brick extends from floor to ceiling. Above the fireplace, there's a thick wooden mantel and an oversized large black television. A cozy sofa with soft, oversized cushions covered in a light beige fabric faces the fireplace. A fringed throw blanket is draped casually over the side of the sofa. A woven area rug adds depth to the room. Soft ambient lighting highlights the textures of brick, wood, and fabric.

A built-in firewood nook next to your brick fireplace not only looks stylish but also keeps logs within easy reach. 

Whether recessed into the wall or designed as an open cubby, this feature enhances the rustic appeal while adding practicality and warmth to the room.

17. Install Glass Fireplace Doors

A photo of a living room with a sophisticated brick fireplace. The fireplace has sleek glass doors framed in matte black metal. The warm red brick contrasts with the crisp white walls. A rustic wooden mantel holds an oversized round mirror and three ceramic vases. A cozy sofa with plush cream fabric cushions and textured pillows in neutral hues faces the fireplace. A low coffee table with a large vase sits on a shaggy area rug. The glass doors allow the dancing flames to remain visible while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic.

Swapping out traditional fireplace screens for sleek glass doors modernizes a brick fireplace while improving efficiency. 

Choose black metal-trimmed doors for an industrial look or brass for a classic touch. 

Glass doors enhance safety while allowing the fire’s glow to remain visible.

18. Accent With Bold Tile

A living room with a striking brick fireplace. The fireplace is framed by bold, patterned tiles in shades of deep blue and white, adding an unexpected yet elegant contrast. The brickwork remains exposed above the firebox, preserving its rustic charm, while the tiled surround introduces a touch of global influence. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, wrapped in a rich navy fabric with embroidered throw pillows in complementing tones. A round wooden coffee table sits atop a woven area rug, while a fiddle-leaf fig plant adds a fresh, organic element. The overall effect is a perfect balance of classic brick and modern design.

Surrounding a brick fireplace with decorative tile adds a fresh, custom look. 

Patterned cement tiles bring a global-inspired flair, while sleek subway tiles offer a crisp contrast. 

Whether framing the firebox or extending across the hearth, tile adds personality and texture.

19. Go Rustic With a Stone Overlay

A cozy cabin-inspired room with a rustic brick fireplace. The fireplace has a stone veneer overlay with irregularly shaped fieldstone in warm, earthy tones. It features a sturdy wooden mantel holding an oversized black television and three ceramic vases. The room contains a soft suede sofa in a warm caramel hue, layered with knitted throws and plaid accent pillows. There is a worn leather ottoman sitting atop a distressed wool rug. The room has a crackling fire in the fireplace.

If you love the look of stone but have a brick fireplace, consider a stone veneer overlay. 

This update adds a natural, organic touch while maintaining the fireplace’s structural integrity. 

Choose rugged fieldstone for a cabin feel or smooth-cut stone for a polished appearance.

20. Add a Chunky Limestone Mantel

A room with a stately brick fireplace crowned with a thick limestone mantel. The mantel has a smooth, pale surface that contrasts beautifully against the rich red brick backdrop. The mantel's substantial weight and refined finish add a sense of grandeur, supporting elegant décor like vintage candlesticks and delicate three porcelain vases. A cozy sofa faces the fireplace, its cream-colored fabric draped with a linen throw and adorned with soft, neutral-toned pillows. A wooden coffee table sits nearby, holding a large brown vase, while a plush area rug ties the room together, creating an atmosphere of effortless sophistication.

A thick limestone mantel enhances a brick fireplace with timeless elegance. 

The contrast between rough brick and smooth limestone creates a balanced, high-end aesthetic. 

This design works beautifully in traditional, Mediterranean, and French country-style homes.

21. Illuminate With Sconces

A photo of a living room with a classic brick fireplace. The fireplace is beautifully flanked by two elegant modern wall sconces, casting a warm, ambient glow over the exposed brick. The soft lighting enhances the texture of the brick, creating a cozy yet refined atmosphere. A sturdy wooden mantel stretches across the fireplace, adorned with an oversized wall painting. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, its soft cushions wrapped in ivory linen, complemented by a chunky knit throw. A round coffee table with a marble top sits on a plush wool rug, completing the inviting, well-lit space.

Wall sconces flanking a brick fireplace add warmth and sophistication. 

Whether you choose vintage-style lanterns, sleek modern fixtures, or industrial Edison bulbs, the right lighting enhances the fireplace’s charm while creating a cozy, ambient glow.

22. Try a Brick Herringbone Firebox

A photo of a living room with a brick fireplace. The fireplace has a herringbone-patterned firebox made of natural red bricks, which contrasts with the smooth, light-gray brick surround. The fireplace is the focal point of the room. A wooden mantel holds a simple floral arrangement and two decorative vases. A cozy sofa with deep seats covered in charcoal fabric is placed near the fireplace, layered with patterned throw pillows. A distressed plain wooden coffee table sits atop a jute area rug, adding texture and warmth to the elegantly styled space.

A herringbone brick pattern inside the firebox adds a subtle, elegant detail that elevates your fireplace design. 

This classic pattern enhances the traditional appeal while providing visual depth and texture, making it a small but impactful upgrade.

23. Accent With a Mirrored Mantel

A living room photo with a striking brick fireplace. The fireplace is topped with a mirrored mantel, reflecting natural light and making the space feel brighter and more open. The classic red brickwork provides an earthy contrast to the sleek mirrored surface, which holds an oversized black television. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, upholstered in light gray fabric with plush cushions. A round glass coffee table with a vase of large fresh flowers sits nearby, surrounded by soft area rugs and decorative accents that enhance the room's stylish, airy feel.

A large mirror above a brick fireplace reflects light and creates an illusion of space. 

Whether you choose an antique gold frame for vintage charm or a sleek, frameless design for modern appeal, a mirror enhances the fireplace’s presence while making the room feel brighter.

24. Keep It Minimalist and Bare

A photo of a minimalist living room with a brick fireplace. The fireplace is completely bare, with no mantel or other decorations. The exposed brick is the focal point of the room. A cozy sofa with neutral upholstery is placed in front of the fireplace. A round wooden coffee table with a large ceramic vase sits on a minimalist woven rug. Large windows let in lots of natural light, highlighting the understated elegance of the space.

Sometimes, the best approach is to leave your brick fireplace bare and unadorned. 

This minimalist style lets the raw beauty of the brick shine, especially in industrial, loft, or Scandinavian-inspired interiors. 

Pair it with simple, clean-lined furniture for a balanced aesthetic.

25. Convert to an Electric Insert

A photo of a living room with a traditional brick fireplace transformed with a sleek electric insert. The electric flames flicker behind a glass panel, framed by the rich red brick surround. Above, a slim wooden mantel holds a large oversized television. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, its overstuffed cushions covered in soft, off-white fabric, accessorized with a mix of textured pillows. A low coffee table with a modern metal base wit a large vase of large flowers sits on a patterned area rug, adding a touch of contemporary flair to the cozy scene.

If you love the look of a fireplace but don’t want the hassle of wood-burning maintenance, consider converting your brick fireplace to an electric insert. 

Modern electric units mimic the cozy glow of real flames while providing a practical, low-maintenance alternative.

26. Frame It With Paneling

A photo of a living room with a timeless brick fireplace. The fireplace is framed by elegant wood paneling, painted in a soft, neutral hue. The classic red brick contrasts beautifully with the clean lines of the paneling. A reclaimed wood mantel rests above the firebox, adorned with delicate vases and a round mirror. A very cozy sofa faces the fireplace, its beige fabric upholstery accented with embroidered throw pillows. A tufted ottoman serves as a coffee table, sitting atop a herringbone-patterned rug, completing the elegant and inviting ambiance.

Adding wood paneling around a brick fireplace creates a refined, built-in look. 

Whether you choose classic wainscoting, modern slats, or painted panels, this treatment frames the fireplace beautifully and enhances its presence in the room.

27. Make It a Double-Sided Fireplace

A photo of a spacious living room with a grand double-sided brick fireplace. The fireplace acts as a room divider, with one side containing a cozy sofa, a reclaimed wood coffee table, and a woven jute rug. The other side of the fireplace is partially visible, revealing a mantel with vases. The exposed red brick extends from floor to ceiling, and a see-through firebox offers a mesmerizing view of flickering flames. The room has a warm and inviting atmosphere.

A double-sided brick fireplace offers warmth and ambiance to two spaces at once. 

Whether separating a living room and dining area or connecting an indoor and outdoor space, this design creates a stunning architectural focal point that adds both function and beauty.

28. Go Bold With Deep Blue

A living space with a deep blue-painted brick fireplace as the focal point. The fireplace has a sleek black mantel that holds an oversized large television. There's a cozy sofa in cream fabric with navy and gold accent pillows facing the fireplace. A brass coffee table with a large ceramic vase sits atop a geometric-patterned rug. Wall sconces with warm Edison bulbs flank the fireplace, casting a soft glow.

Painting a brick fireplace deep blue adds a rich, moody vibe while still feeling sophisticated and inviting. 

Navy, indigo, or cobalt blue pairs beautifully with brass or gold accents, creating a luxurious focal point. 

This color works especially well in coastal, modern, or eclectic spaces.

29. Try a Soft Sage Green

A serene living room with a sage green brick fireplace. The fireplace has a white oak mantel with a large black television on top. The room has a cozy sofa upholstered in warm ivory linen with earthy-toned throw pillows. There's a round wooden coffee table with a large vase on a handwoven area rug. The room has a neutral decor and is filled with natural light through large windows.

A sage green brick fireplace brings a subtle, nature-inspired feel to your space. 

This calming hue blends seamlessly with earthy tones, warm woods, and neutral palettes, making it perfect for farmhouse, cottage, or bohemian interiors. 

It adds color without overwhelming the room.

30. Brighten With Warm Terracotta

A cozy living room with a warm terracotta-painted brick fireplace as the focal point. The fireplace has a reclaimed wood mantel above it, which holds an oversized black television. A deep-cushioned sofa in a soft linen fabric faces the fireplace, adorned with burnt-orange and cream throw pillows. A natural fiber rug grounds the space. Sunlight streams in through a window, casting a golden glow over the warm-toned décor.

A terracotta-painted brick fireplace infuses warmth and personality into a space, evoking the charm of Mediterranean and Southwestern designs. 

This sun-kissed, earthy shade pairs beautifully with natural textures like jute rugs, leather furniture, and wooden beams for a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Sophia Reynolds

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