You know, mean fireplaces are a long-standing symbol of warmth and contentment. These days, though, it’s also for style and sophistication.
A modern fireplace surround is one of the quickest ways to elevate your fireplace and the feel of your home. Not only does this design feature create a frame around the fire, but it also establishes its character and personality in your home.
Today, there are so many materials, shapes, and designs of modern fireplace surrounds to choose from that it is easier to discover the one that suits your style. From the sleek minimalist look to a giant dramatic centerpiece, this guide covers it all for modern fireplace surrounds.
What is a Fireplace Surround?
However, before we get into the nitty-gritty, what exactly is a fireplace surround? It is the ornamentation surrounding the firebox, usually made up of:
- The Mantel: The shelf at the top of a fireplace.
- Side Panels (Legs): This part of the firepit is the vertical component on each side of the firebox.
- The Hearth: The bottom or floor of the fireplace can stick out into the room.
The surround is functional as well as decorative. It shields your walls and furniture from heat damage while beautifying your fireplace.
Why Choose a Modern Fireplace Surround?
Modern fireplace surrounds are becoming popular because of their sleek designs and versatility. And here’s why you should consider moving to modern surround:
Aesthetic Appeal
Updated surround features can instantly boost your room’s appearance. From chic lines to striking statements, a design there is for you.
Enhanced Functionality
Most modern surroundings could be more approach-oriented. Utilizing heat-resistant and high-quality materials, ensure your fireplace has a top-notch look on the outside.
Increased Home Value
An adequately planned fireplace can increase the value of your house. Fireplaces attract buyers, and an updated surround will help your home be memorable.
Versatility
With a contemporary design, there is excellent flexibility. You find a surround to match no matter how industrial, minimalistic, or rustic your home is.
Best Modern Fireplace Surround Materials
The secret to getting the desired appearance and sensation is selecting the appropriate fabric. Below are some popular options:
1. Marble
Marble is a perennial favorite for anyone seeking to add some luxury. Every surround is unique due to its smooth surface and veining patterns.
Why choose marble?
- It is long-lasting and resistant to heat.
- It can be bought in multiple colors, including white, but black or green will also fit easily.
- It provides an elegant and sophisticated touch.
Well marble has a few disadvantages as well. It costs more than others and needs to be treated to keep it stain-free.
2. Concrete
Concrete is popular for those wanting a more industrial or sleek feel. Its unrefined, “in-progress” appearance perfectly suits modern and minimalist interiors.
Here are the advantages of concrete surrounds:
- Affordable and durable.
- It can be shaped and textured in different ways.
- It offers a neutral background for other design elements to shine.
Do note that concrete can be dense and might need professional installation. It also requires sealing to keep it from staining or cracking.
3. Metal
Metal edges, mainly stainless or blackened steel types, are super modern and striking. Use them to give your space a chic, contemporary feel.
Why go for metal?
- High level of lasting strength.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Various finishes can be readily applied, ranging from polished to matte.
The drawback, however, is that metal surfaces can scratch easily, and some may need an extra coating layer to prevent rusting.
4. Tile
Tile surrounds are so flexible. With endless possibilities, there is a combination you can think of somewhere from a clean, minimalist look to an ornate mille-fleur design.
Advantages of tile surround:
- Various colors, shapes, and patterns.
- Budget-friendly.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
On the downside, though, grout lines can trap dirt and must be cleaned occasionally. In addition, since certain tiles can break in extreme heat, choose labels firm against high temperatures.
5. Wood (Real or Faux)
Wood has the advantage of breathing warmth and character into every single space. Although faux wood lacks the heat exposure qualities of natural timber, it provides a similar look without the danger.
Why choose wood?
- Brings a cozy, rustic charm.
- Paint or stain to match your decor.
- Customizable wood looks are robust and secure.
Faux wood is less maintenance than natural wood and takes better sealants to upkeep genuine timber.
Trendy Design Styles for Modern Fireplace Surrounds
There are many kinds of modern fireplace surrounds to fit your style. Take a look at some of the trends on fire.
Minimalist Design
In minimalist surrounds, they focus on simple & clean lines. Neutral colors with concrete, metal, or smooth stone create a calm and uncluttered appearance.
Floor-to-Ceiling Surrounds
Some homeowners have their surroundings set from floor to ceiling for dramatic effect. It also creates a great first impression and an eye-catching centerpiece that works well in small and large spaces.
Floating Mantels
A floating mantel gives a fireplace an aesthetic that is modern and airy as if the mantel was simply floating on top of the wall. It perfectly complements simple and contemporary designs.
Mixed Materials
Materials – Any different materials, such as marble and wood, tile and metal, can create the perfect layered look. In this regard, it provides dimension and detail to your fireplace and turns it into an actual focal point.
Bold Colors
Neutral tones always go, but deep blues, greens, or matte black are rapidly gaining favor. These shades can make your fireplace the star of your room.
How To Select An Appropriate Contemporary Fireplace Surround
When it comes to choosing the right surround for your home, there are a few key things you need to consider:
Match Your Home’s Style
The surrounding fireplace’s style should work with your house’s general character. Choose materials such as metal or concrete if you want a more minimalist and modern appearance. Wood or tile would be suitable for those with a more rustic home.
Think About Functionality
If your fireplace will be used often, look for durable, heat-resistant materials with low maintenance requirements. With non-functional fireplaces, you can focus more on looks and less on longevity.
Stick to Your Budget
Hotel fireplace surrounds2008-09-12Modern fireplace surround081005_full.jpg are almost always expensive. You can pay a premium for marble and custom designs, but tile and faux wood are more affordable.
Think about Professional Installation
Certain items, for example, marble and concrete, are hardware-presented materials that can be weighty and troublesome.
You get a good finish, and the chances of making a blunder are meager because you hire someone who knows what he is doing.
DIY Installation or Pros Installation?
When enhancing your fireplace surround, one of the more significant choices you must make is whether this is a project you manage on your own or hire somebody to perform.
DIY Installation
Installing a fireplace surround is rewarding to do yourself if you have some handyman skills in your toolbox. If you have the tools and directions, concrete, tile, and wood surrounds are relatively easy to install.
That said, mistakes are expensive. Tiles not aligned correctly or panels that do not interlock as expected can make your fireplace look terrible and even require a pro to return for a fix!
Professional Installation
Professional works are the only option, especially for heavy materials such as marble or more intricate designs. They will have everything necessary to ensure the result is a perfect fit and look. Though this one costs more, getting perfect results is worth your investment.
Maintaining Your Current Fireplace Surround
You will want to keep your new surround looking its best once installed. But here are a few easy care ideas:
- Dust often: Use a gentle rag or vacuum attachment.
- No Harsh Cleaners: Cleaning should only be done with soap and water.
- Other porous materials: Marble, concrete, and some tiles must be sealed periodically against staining or damage.
- Look For Cracks: If you see some, seal them immediately before they start slipping within.
Final Thoughts
It is not just a frame for your fire; a modern fireplace surround is a statement piece that can recast your room. A concrete surround gives a sleek, contemporary, and minimalist feel, marble feels luxe, and tile offers creative design possibilities. There is a perfect surround for you!
Are you ready to start redesigning your fireplace? Get inspired, think about the style of your home, and pick a surround that delivers beauty with balanced functionality. After installation, you will have a comfortable, stylish comfort that will stay around for years in the home.
So, get your design ideas together and plan to remodel a modern fireplace surround today! With just a few simple additions, you can create a cozy area that you will want to be in. Let’s turn up the heat!