100+ Creative Ideas to Cover a Brick Fireplace

A brick fireplace adds a rustic charm and warmth to any living space, but over time, it can lose its appeal due to soot, smoke, and everyday wear and tear. If you're looking to reinstall some zest into your fireplace, consider these creative and practical ideas to cover or dress up your brick fireplace.

Whether you're aiming for a modern, cottage, or industrial style, there's a suitable approach to glorify your brick fireplace. Let's delve into some fantastic ideas that blend aesthetics and functionality.

Adding a Mantel

A mantel instantly elevates the look of your fireplace by providing a shelf for displaying decorative items, family photos, or seasonal decor. For a rustic touch, opt for a reclaimed wood mantel or choose a sleek marble one for a contemporary look.

Measure accurately before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit. Remember, the mantel should be centered over the firebox and uniformly spaced from the floor for a harmonious look.

Wooden Mantels

Timber mantels bring an inviting, natural element to your space, available in various woods like oak, maple, or reclaimed pine. To add character, consider distressing or staining the wood to match your room's color palette.

For an industrial vibe, choose a live-edge mantel that showcases the natural beauty of the wood, or opt for barnwood-style mantel for a rustic farmhouse look.

Stone or Marble Mantels

Stone or marble mantels exude luxury and sophistication. Surround your fireplace with a sleek slab of Carrara marble or create a dynamic effect with a honed orplit-veined stone slab.

For a seamless look, match the mantel with the rest of your stonework, or contrast it for a bold, striking statement.

Concealing with a Fireplace Screen

A fireplace screen shields young ones and pets from the fire, but it also serves as a decorative feature. Choose from contemporary, geometric designs, classic wrought iron, or ornate, elegant styles to complement your room's theme.

For an unobstructed view of the fire, consider a glass fireplace screen, while a mesh screen is ideal for open fireplaces, letting heat circulate throughout the room.

Custom Glass Fireplace Screens

Create a custom glass screen by collaborating with a local glass artist for an artwork that reflects your personal style. From stained glass to Simple geometric designs, the possibilities are endless.

Opt for tempered glass for durability and safety, and ensure the screen is securely fastened to prevent tipping.

Cast-Iron Fireplace Screens

Cast-iron screens add a touch of vintage charm, available in a range of designs, from classic to Art Deco-inspired styles. Look for an antimacassar – a fabric cover for the screen's handle – to add a elegant touch.

Ensure the screen's size fits your fireplace opening and consider adding nonslip feet for stability during use.

Embellishing with a Surround

A fireplace surround frames and enhances your fireplace, drawing the eye in and adding a focal point. Build a custom surround from scratch or use manufactured kits for an easy, do-it-yourself project.

Choose materials that complement your home's architectural style and interior design, such as brick, stone, or tile.

Brick Fireplace Surrounds

Extend your brickwork by adding a surround that matches your existing fireplace for a cohesive look. Consider using the same brick style or mixing in a different color or texture for visual interest.

For a straightforward installation, use manufactured brick kits designed to fit standard fireplace openings, or hire a professional for complex, custom designs.

Stone Fireplace Surrounds

Envelop your fireplace with a stone surround for a luxurious, elegant feel. Choose from various stones like limestone, travertine, or slate, depending on your desired look and budget.

For a seamless, built-in appearance, carry the stone from the surround onto the hearth and up the chimney breast. Opt for uniform stone tiles or create a stacked stone pattern for a traditional, craftsman-style surround.

Transforming your brick fireplace starts with envisioning the desired outcome and selecting an approach that reflects your unique style and needs. Whether you opt for a mantel, fireplace screen, or surround, embrace the opportunity to personalize your space and create an inviting, warm sanctuary.