There are countless ways to finish a fireplace, and so many that we love! For our new builds and full-scale remodels, we often start each fireplace design from scratch. Today on the blog, we connected with one of our senior designers to get her insight on the best ways to finish a fireplace, the MGD design process, and what current fireplace design ideas she’s loving right now. Keep scrolling for all of her insight, along with a few of our favorite fireplace designs from past projects!
Ways To Finish A Fireplace
When kicking off a new project, we always run through all of the different fireplace design ideas with our clients. There are a few fireplace finishes we find ourselves drawn to over and over again. Our favorites include slab surrounds, all-plaster designs, and full-height stone, brick, or tile. We’re also a sucker for millwork, so we’ll also often opt for a millwork mantel when it fits the overall style of the project.
One thing to keep in mind as you consider different fireplace finish options is that there are certain requirements for non-combustible material coverage that you’ll need to abide by. It often differs by code, but a general requirement is typically 12″ to protect from the projection of heat. Determining this is usually the first step for us as we put together a fireplace design!
Our Fireplace Design Process
Once we’ve determined the firebox being used and the code requirement for non-combustible material, we’ll start diving into inspiration and ideas. We’ll often pull inspiration images of a few different style options that fit the overall aesthetic of the space to present to our clients. The fireplace is usually a main focal point of the space it’s in. So, it’s important that the overall design is impactful and beautiful to look at!
After we’ve decided on a design concept, we’ll either create an elevation of the fireplace or work through the details with our contractor on-site based on the inspiration and site parameters. From there, we’ll start selecting materials, whether it’s stone, slabs, or tile! If you’re opting for a slab surround and/or mantel (as we often do), templating is the next step!
Whether or not we include a mantel typically comes down to client preference. If we’re creating a mantel out of slab material, plaster, or millwork, we always think through the overall depth and how it finishes back. That’s especially true if our clients are wanting to accommodate decor (including holiday decor)!
Our Favorite Fireplace Trends
A few fireplace design trends we’re loving right now include full-height plaster fireplaces with a unique shape or finish, as well as full slab surround and mantels. We’re also finding ourselves drawn to millwork details like the white oak shiplap at #MGDxMarigold or the intricate mantel at our newly completed #MGDxNellieGail project.
To keep browsing fireplaces, head to our project portfolio. There, you can see all of the different fireplace designs we’ve worked on recently. For more insights from our design team, check out our recent posts on how to choose wood flooring and tips for selecting lighting in an open concept space. Lastly, to shop decor, art, and accessories for your newly remodeled fireplace, head over to our affiliate shop. What topic should we cover on the blog next? Let us know in the comments!