There’s something about a fire that draws us in. Whether it’s a backyard bonfire or a glowing hearth, people are attracted to the flickering flames and sense of peace. Even when the fire itself is absent, a well-decorated mantel and hearth bring some of that same magic to your home.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to decorate a fireplace and make your hearth the center of attention. Whether you have a traditional wood mantel or a modern marble surround, these fireplace decor ideas turn any fireplace into the heart of your living area.

10 fireplace decorating ideas to elevate your home

Fireplaces don’t need a lot of help to command attention. But well-placed artwork and shiny candle holders do a lot to enhance the inherent appeal. Here are 10 fireplace decoration tips that make the most of this often-overlooked feature.

1. Large-scale art

Giant artwork shows off your unique personality better than any perfectly styled furniture set could. Your choice of visual pieces reveals a lot about your personal taste and artistic curiosity. It also brings your room some compelling visual drama.

In the modern living room design pictured above, a paper-thin black frame makes the artwork pop off the crisp white walls. The same restraint shows up in the surrounding pieces. A mid-century modern chair, daybed, and coffee table combo echoes the art’s calming mood and helps center the fireplace.

2. Layered mantel decor

Layering is a popular interior design trick because it creates visual depth and contrast that naturally captures the eye. Here, you’ll see three framed photographs leaning casually against each other, their soft hues echoed in a set of cool ceramic vases. It’s the perfect mix of casual and curated, adding subtle dynamism to a simple white fireplace.

You can layer just about any fireplace mantel decor: framed art and mirrors, sculptural objects and pillar candles, or a small stack of books with a trailing plant. The key is to vary the objects’ height, shape, color, and/or texture, so each piece connects without blending into one another.

3. Unique fireplace screen

The inside of a fireplace — at least, one that actually gets used — inevitably discolors with soot and ash. An artistic fireplace screen hides the mess while adding a gorgeous accessory to your surround styling.

It’s best to opt for something sculptural that matches the rest of your design. In this example, the gold screen emulates the curved shapes of the classic milling on the mantel and the arms on the reading chairs. In a more modern or contemporary living room, a steel frame with a glass pane can add subtle structure and polish.

Browse stylish fireplace screens on Onton

4. Decorative tiles

Decorative tiles bring personality and pattern to a fireplace surround, and are especially fitting if your design style leans eclectic. Patterns help to sell a look, grounding your living room in a specific aesthetic and tying to other decor details, such as throw pillows or artwork.

This Spanish Revival-style yellow-and-blue motif pops against the room’s white walls, creating an undeniable focal point. You can give your fireplace a similar makeover with hand-painted blue-and-white Mediterranean-inspired tiles, or try nature designs for a cottagecore look.

5. Bold statement wall 

Traditionally, we think of fireplaces as simple, functional stone or wood constructions. But today, they’re more about style than purpose. Adding bold colors takes a traditional, even old-fashioned feature from okay to stunning.

In this maximalist living room, a mantel painted in rich red connects the fireplace to the towering bookshelves on either side. The effect doesn’t make the fireplace disappear or obscure its original design. Instead, it supports the room’s rhythm of saturated tones and layered decor details. This is a simple DIY fireplace makeover that results in an attention-grabbing statement wall.

6. Whitewashed brick

If you prefer to keep things simple, whitewashing your fireplace brightens up the space while adding a touch of rustic charm. It gives hard brick a soft, worn-in look that feels clean and easygoing. This fireplace design style fits in perfectly with a modern farmhouse, coastal, or Mediterranean living room.

Of course, you’ll still need some contrast. The formal living room layout pictured above smartly uses mid-toned wood details (such as a circular mirror and rectangular coffee table) alongside a black firebox to give the space depth.

7. Firebox display

Fireplaces don’t have to be functional to be a key part of your home. And you aren’t constrained to the outside surfaces — you can make a design statement within the fireplace itself. 

Here, stacked logs create a playful organic shape, breaking up the blush color palette. This is a classic design move, but the possibilities are endless. Try transforming your firebox into a bookcase, decorating it with candles, or stacking books and sculptural ceramics. The goal isn’t faking a fire; it’s using this natural focal point as an excuse to add personality.

8. Built-in cabinets or shelves

What’s around your fireplace is just as important as the feature itself. Built-ins with milling details and sophisticated hardware add architectural polish, making them the perfect addition to a cozy, traditional design style.

Your modern fireplace decor can trend polished or personal, depending on whether you’re decorating a formal living room or homey family room. In a living room, you might line shelves with books, boxes, and sculptural pieces for a more curated feel. For a family room, you can layer with framed photos and woven baskets to hide TV remotes and cords.

9. Large mirror

Mirrors are a favorite interior design trick for good reason. They bounce light, reflect color, and make your space feel larger. Adding one is a simple way to include above-fireplace decor without overcomplicating the design.

Be sure to choose a frame that reflects your room’s design language. In this example, the curved mirror mimics the shape of the two arched window frames. You can also match your mirror’s frame to a bronze light fixture, the wood tones on the floor, or even the finish of a nearby coffee table.

Look for unique arched mirrors on Onton

10. Dark wood stain

Sometimes, you’ll want to lean into the traditional wood aesthetic of a stately fireplace. We’ve talked about bold colors and whitewashing, but don’t be afraid to try a more natural look.

Rich walnut and espresso stains highlight wood grain and architectural details, adding lots of warmth and old-school elegance. Against dark-paneled walls, a stained mantel makes a space feel cocooned — imagine a classic study or moody lounge. In lighter rooms, the contrast sharpens lines and creates a sense of depth.

Find the perfect fireplace decor with Onton

Ready to give your living room’s focal point the styling it deserves? Onton’s AI-powered search engine helps you explore mantel decor ideas for every design vibe. Try prompts like “modern candle holders” and “oversized mirror” to browse pieces from the best brands.

Once you discover a few favorites, you can use Onton’s Imagine tool to preview how your fireplace will look. Just upload a photo and start experimenting. Or simply describe your vision with a phrase like “modern wood fireplace with trailing plants and a candle display.”

Dream up your ideal fireplace decor with Onton.

FAQ

What are the steps for renovating a fireplace?

Before changing your fireplace’s structure, have a professional assess its condition and safety. That means checking for cracks or blockages, confirming that the mantle is secure, and double-checking any gas or electrical connections. Once this process is complete, you can update the fireplace surround with paint, tile, or millwork.

What are some design ideas for stone fireplaces?

Stone fireplaces can feel cozy or sophisticated depending on the finish. Try decorating your living room fireplace with whitewashed rock for a rustic look, smooth-cut stone for a modern aesthetic, or stacked slate for a cabin feel.

How can I feng shui a fireplace?

Feng shui is all about balancing natural elements. A fireplace represents the fire element, which brings energy to a room. It can be balanced with water elements (like cool color palettes) and earthy features (such as clay pottery and large plants).