Fireplaces That Catch the Eye

Remember that polar vortex that swept across much of the U.S. earlier this year? Even in California, it left us thinking about basic needs: food, water and warmth. However, wouldn’t it be nice if those had a touch of luxe? Maybe a nice bowl of soup. A glass of a favorite red wine. And wouldn’t both taste that much better if they were consumed in front of a roaring fire?

A fireplace — from traditional to modern, wood to ethanol and everything in between — can work in every room on most reasonable budgets with a little thought and ingenuity.

This sleek transitional fireplace is the perfect foil to break up a wall of built-in shelving. The rectilinear tile echoes the cabinetry on either side — a little designer move that creates visual harmony.


Say this tongue twister fast: a frameless, floating fireplace! It may be confusing for the tongue, but it’s a wonder for the eyes. Used to divide a large space, this floating fireplace provides architectural interest; the tiles also bring in wonderful texture.


Low and sleek with a touch of ethnic flair, this fireplace doesn’t presume it’s the center of attention. The hearth’s low profile allows it to play second fiddle to the intricate fretwork above.

Note: Wood surrounds need to be at least 6 inches above the fireplace opening; contractors often recommend at least 12 inches.


The dual-sided fireplace in this traditional family room means double the fun. By placing the fireplace on an exterior wall, the homeowners were able to create a beautiful focal point for their covered patio as well as their family room. For a dual-sided fireplace on an exterior wall, a gas fireplace insert is the standard.


Wood and fire seem like a match made in heaven. At one point fear of a fire hazard would have kept this pairing far apart. However, thanks to innovations with tile made to look like wood, wood composites and insulated fireboxes, most homeowners can enjoy this look worry free.


Who says that a fireplace has to be square or rectangular? Cast stone, concrete and other engineered materials allow designers to create any number of shapes to tickle their clients’ fancy. The trapezoidal shape of this fireplace is an unexpected but nice juxtaposition in this quiet room.


This lean floor-level fireplace is a minimalist statement. Gas-fueled fireplaces give designers more latitude when designing the hearth box. If a gas line isn’t an option, gel inserts can simulate the look.


Limestone mantel? Check. Herringbone firebox? Check. All the elements of a traditional fireplace that oozes old-world style and warmth? Check.

You can replicate the look with a faux mantel. When purchasing faux mantels, confirm how the firebox will align. Since these mantels typically are not custom, there is often a small gap that needs to be filled with tile.

Tell us: Has this past winter inspired you to redo or add a fireplace?

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