We’re starting to feel that cool change, so to warm up, we’re diving into fireplace design ideas that are perfect for creating a chic and cosy living room. Fireplaces aren’t just a practical source of warmth; they can be striking focal points within your space. This means the fireplace design you choose can influence both the style and ambiance of your home. We’re exploring different ideas, ranging from bold, modern designs to serene stone fireplaces. Plus, we’ll also help you choose which fireplace is perfect for your space by comparing wood, gas, and electric options. So, whether you’re looking for inspiration or want to warm up, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!

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Image credit: SMUB Studio | Rex Whiticker    

What's the difference between wood, gas, and electric fireplaces?

Wood Fireplaces

Wood-burning fireplaces are the epitome of classic charm and rustic comfort. The authentic flame, coupled with the soothing sound of crackling wood and the aroma it releases, creates an unmatchable ambiance of warmth and nostalgia. However, it’s not all farmhouse chic, they do require more maintenance than their modern counterparts, including regular cleaning. 

Additionally, wood fireplaces need a steady supply of firewood, which means you have to consider storage space and physical effort. Despite these factors, their natural aesthetics and unbeatable charm make them a popular choice in living rooms, as seen in this coastal contemporary accommodation.

Image credit: @houseonesixtwo | Nat Spada

Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces strike a balance between convenience and comfort, offering the warmth of a traditional fireplace without the labor-intensive upkeep. With a simple switch or remote control, they can be ignited instantly, providing heat quickly and efficiently. Plus, they are available in a large variety of designs, from inserts that can fit into existing fireplaces to stand-alone units that serve as stunning central features. While they require a connection to a natural gas line, their ease of use and minimal maintenance make them a popular choice for any style of home, just like this gas fireplace found in The Beach Abode, a luxury coastal accommodation.

Image credit: The Beach Abode | Nat Spada

Image credit: The Beach Abode | Nat Spada

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces offer flexibility and safety, making them ideal for homes without access to natural gas or those with concerns about open flames, such as families with young children or pets. These clever units can mimic the look of real flames using LED technology, and some models even include sound effects and aroma diffusers to enhance the sensory experience, sounds perfect, right? 

Plus, electric fireplaces can be placed in any room, requiring only an electrical outlet to operate. They are often the most economical to install, though depending on their usage, they can affect your electricity bill. Their portability, ease of use, and variety of design options have made electric fireplaces a popular choice. 

Mood board created by Arc and Arlo on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.

Mood board created by Autumn & Raine Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.

1. Modern Living Room Fireplace Ideas

Modern fireplaces are defined by their sleek lines, striking designs, and enhanced materials, such as tempered glass and stainless steel. These fireplaces are often gas or electric, featuring remote controls, adjustable heat settings, and even programmable timbers, that blend seamlessly into modern style living rooms. Wall-mounted or built-in fireplace designs not only heat your room but can act as art pieces that will elevate the aesthetics of your space, as seen in Ashton House, which features a bold fireplace imported from Europe. 

Image credit: AM Interior Studio | Mitchell Kemp Photography 

Image credit: AM Interior Studio | Mitchell Kemp Photography 

2. Coastal Style Living Room Fireplace Ideas

Embodying the light and airy vibes of the beach, coastal style fireplaces typically feature design elements such as white or pastel-painted bricks, natural materials, and décor to match, as seen in the luxury Byron Bay accommodation, Lavana. Ideal for homes with an open, airy layout, they often use gas or electric logs instead of real wood, maintaining cleanliness and ease of use without compromising the aesthetics of the space.

Image credit: The Designory | The Quarter Acre  

3. Minimalist Fireplace Ideas

Just like the interior design trend, a sleek, minimalist fireplace is all about simplicity and understated elegance. It often uses straight, clean lines with little to no decoration, focusing on the beauty of the surrounding space and materials used. These fireplaces are designed to provide warmth while maintaining a sense of calm and uncluttered space, as illustrated by Lumiere House and its sister accommodation, Lumiere Lakes.

Looking for more living room inspiration? Discover armchair ideas perfect for any living room no matter the style.

Image credit: Maven Home | Nat Spada

Image credit: Lumière Collective | Nat Spada

4. Contemporary Fireplace Ideas

Contemporary fireplaces merge striking modern designs with the sleek, understated style of minimalism. They often go undetected as they won’t usually be the focal point of your living room. Contemporary fireplaces might also combine glass with rustic wood elements, or sleek metal with stone accents, offering that warming functionality without too much attention, as seen at Rathmines North House.

Image credit: Alison Lewis Interiors | BuildHer Collective | Dylan James     

5. Sandstone Fireplace Ideas

Sandstone fireplaces are sure to add a touch of natural elegance to any living space, with their warm hues and distinct texture. Each piece of sandstone has unique markings, providing a one-of-a-kind look that can complement both classic and modern décors, as illustrated at Kiama Kin. These fireplaces are appreciated not only for their aesthetics but also for their ability to retain heat, providing efficient warmth long after the fire has diminished. 

Image credit: Hemma Interiors | Nat Spada

6. Fireplace Ideas for Renovating 

If you’re taking on a renovation and need a few ideas to revitalise your current fireplace, look no further. This project could involve resurfacing the façade with contemporary materials like sleek, large-format tiles or even painting to space around the fireplace. The renovation can also extend to updating the mantel with new materials or designs, fitting seamlessly with your living room’s current aesthetic. We just love how Nat Spada has given this fireplace a whole new life. 

If you’re looking for even more inspiration for tiling your fireplace, Beaumont Tiles has all the Fireplace Tile Inspiration To Get You Fired Up. 

Image credit: Nat Spada

Image credit: Nat Spada

7. Two-way Glass Fireplace Ideas

If you’re looking for a sophisticated fireplace idea, two-way glass fireplaces are perfect for integrating into walls that divide rooms, offering dual functionality and a shared experience in multiple spaces. These luxury units can serve as a stylish partition while providing a glimpse of the fire from both sides, enhancing the ambiance of each room while maintaining an open feel, as seen at Selamanya.

Image credit: Hennessy Building Projects | Kristian Van Der Beek 

Image credit: Hennessy Building Projects | Kristian Van Der Beek 

Selecting the right fireplace can significantly enhance the comfort and style of your living room, making it a cosy and chic space for family and guests. Whether your preference lies with the timeless appeal of wood, the convenience of gas, or the safety and versatility of electric, there's a world of designs to suit your lifestyle and décor preferences. Embrace the opportunity to create a focal point in your living room that reflects your personal style and meets your heating needs. Bring your dream living room to life using our mood board tool.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the current trends for fireplaces?

Like many interior trends, current fireplace trends emphasise both aesthetics and functionality. Some popular details include: 

Linear Fireplaces: These feature a long, narrow shape and can be installed at any height on the wall, offering a sleek and contemporary look.

Multi-View Fireplaces: Offering views from multiple sides, these fireplaces can act as room dividers and central focal points in open-plan spaces.

Smart Fireplaces: With remote controls, app integrations, and even voice control, these fireplaces offer convenience and can be adjusted from anywhere in the home.

Eco-Friendly Options: Electric and ethanol fireplaces are gaining popularity due to their minimal environmental impact. They offer a flame without emissions and are suitable for urban environments.

Mixed Materials: Combining materials such as metal, glass, and stone in the fireplace design adds a modern twist and aligns with contemporary interior trends.

How do I design a modern fireplace?

Designing a modern fireplace involves focusing on simplicity and integrating technology. Here’s a few tips to achieving a modern look:

Choose Minimalistic Designs: Opt for clean lines and smooth surfaces. Avoid too many details which can detract from the sleekness of the modern design.

Incorporate Advanced Technology: Consider a gas or electric fireplace with programmable settings and remote controls for ease of use.

Select Neutral Colours: Stick to monochrome or neutral palettes, with blacks, whites, and greys to maintain a modern aesthetic.

Use Contemporary Materials: Materials like brushed steel, tempered glass, or polished concrete can give a fireplace a modern edge.

Integrate with Home Design: Ensure that the fireplace complements the room’s existing design, acting as a cohesive element rather than a standalone feature.

What looks good in front of a fireplace?

The space in front of a fireplace is ideal for creating a cosy and inviting seating area. Here are some items that look good and function well in your living room space:

Comfortable Seating: Arrange a couple of armchairs or a sofa, facing or angled towards the fireplace.

Rugs: Place a plush rug in front of the fireplace to define the space and add warmth and texture.

Coffee Table: A small table can be placed in the centre of the seating area for convenience and style.

Décor: Consider adding décor such as vases, pots, shelves and other pieces to complete the aesthetics.

Artwork: Hanging art above the mantle or placing sculptures in front of the fireplace can enrich the visual interest of the space.

Where do I place a TV in a room with a fireplace?

Placing a TV in a room with a fireplace requires careful consideration of space and viewing angles:

Above the Fireplace: This is a common placement, saving space and creating a central focus area in the room. Ensure the TV is mounted at a comfortable viewing height and consider a tilting mount to adjust the viewing angle.

Adjacent to the Fireplace: Place the TV on a wall perpendicular to the fireplace. This layout can be more comfortable for viewing and makes the fireplace a complementary feature rather than the primary focal point.

Opposite the Fireplace: If room size allows, placing the TV on the opposite wall can balance the room’s focal points, but this requires sufficient spacing to avoid discomfort from heat and to maintain an enjoyable viewing distance.

Where should I put a fireplace in a living room?

The placement of a fireplace in a living room depends on the room's layout and the fireplace's function:

Central Placement: Ideal for traditional and classic designs, placing the fireplace centrally on the main wall can anchor the living room’s layout.

Corner Placement: A corner fireplace can save space while still providing the benefits of warmth and comfort. This option works well in smaller rooms or in a room with a complex layout.

As a Divider: In larger or open-plan spaces, a fireplace can serve as a room divider, defining different areas while keeping an open feel.

Each placement option should consider traffic patterns, furniture arrangement, and the overall aesthetic of the room to optimise both function and style.