Our Fabulous Tips for Modernising your Fireplace

Stuck for what to do with your old and tired fireplace? Take a look at our tips and ideas for revitalizing the area, and bringing your living space back to life.

– First, The Basics

Before we dive into our design ideas, we wanted to give you a few pointers on how to go about redoing your fireplace, to help you understand what you’re looking for.

A frequently asked question when it comes to tiling a fireplace is ‘are tiles heat resistant?’ The simple answer is yes, although it’s still advisable to remain mindful about the tiles you’re choosing. For example, when exposed to heat, glazed tiles may be more susceptible to cracking. Likewise, coloured tiles may be more susceptible to discoloration over time when they are in close contact with heat.

It is always recommended that your tiles are kept at least 14cm away from contact with direct heat. It is also important to use the right adhesive and grout when tiling fireplaces. We recommend the Palace Heat Resistant Tile Adhesive, used alongside the Norcros 4 in 1 grout, which is heat resistant up to 150 degrees Celsius. If you have further questions about what accessories are best for tiling your fireplace, don’t be afraid to get in contact with our customer service team.

We advise using porcelain tiles if your tiles are going to be in close contact with direct heat, however, if the tiles are going to be 20cm or further away from the heat source, it’s safe to use pretty much any tile.

We have a wide range of tiles available for use around the fireplace, with plenty of options to choose from. Onto the design ideas!

1 – Keeping it Simple

When it comes to tiling a fireplace, we may automatically jump to patterned tiles, which although full of character, are not for everyone. If you’re wanting something a little more simple and sophisticated, try a tile that is perhaps just one single shade. We think by doing this you can create a beautiful backdrop for the rest of your room, as it leaves the fireplace in the background allowing the rest of the room to shine. Here we have used our elegant Country Farmhouse Black Slate Tiles, a simply gorgeous tile adaptable to any space.

2 – Add a Subtle Pattern

Using patterned tiles in your home can be scary and daunting to some people. It doesn’t have to be, if it’s done subtly and simply, it can create an effective and dignified look. Try using a patterned tile on just the hearth of your fireplace (floor) to add your desired pattern without jumping into the deep end and adding it all over the place.

Here we’ve used the Scintilla Black Star Tile on the hearth of the fireplace, to create a modern, elegant fireplace.

If you’re looking for a more traditional and Victorian appeal, here’s a customer project from Roseann using our Harran Antique Vintage Blue Pattern Floor Tile. We think Roseann created a really beautiful fireplace with these tiles, and her combination of a plain surround is complimentary and works great together.

3 – Go Geometric

Geometric patterns and designs are making a comeback with recent trends, and are growing in popularity in the design world. We think this is a trend you’re not going to want to miss out on. Geometric designs can create a modern and chic environment, which is further enhanced by the use of grey tones and deeper colours. Our example uses our Dusk Nordic Concrete Effect tiles, which have a fascinating design on them, with the use of greys and deep blues to complement the geometric aspect.

Our Zebra Stripe Monochrome Tiles are another favourite of ours, as their chic monochromatic face creates style and character without being too bold with the use of colour. These tiles can also be laid in many different variations to create amazing geometric designs every time.

4 – Marvellous Monochrome

Additionally, monochromatic interiors are a foolproof way of creating a space that you’ll love for years. When done with black and white across the space, monochromatic schemes are sure to please everyone’s eye. The attention to detail can make or break a two-toned scheme. Be careful with what accessories you place around the fireplace, to not take too much attention from your fabulous fireplace. We’ve used our Osby Charcoal Patterned Porcelain Tiles for this fireplace, and we think the pairings of neutral browns with their black and white face is simple but effective.

Another customer creation comes from Jessica, who has used our Rosebery Cavendish for the surround of her wonderful fireplace. These geometric tiles can be used to create a quirky diamond style, and with every tile being uniform it creates a sophisticated and put-together look in your space.

5 – Go Big with Colour

If you’re looking to add a bit more excitement to your fireplace, why not inject some colour? There are some great options when it comes to adding colour to your fireplace and its surrounding. It doesn’t have to be extravagant and over the top, it can be done subtly to add depth and intrigue, with the space still giving a sophisticated vibe. Here at Walls and Floors, in case you hadn’t already noticed, we love seeing patterned tiles used throughout the home. For this example, here are the stunning Gatsby Forest tiles. We adore these tiles and think they could be perfect for the surround of your fireplace when paired with luxurious golds and lavish accessories. If green isn’t really your thing, we have these tiles available in a range of other gorgeous shades.

Alternatively, try using colour to compliment the tiles you use on your hearth, whether they be patterned or not. To compliment this vibrant white fireplace and the patterned floor tiles, this example has injected a gorgeous deep blue shade to the wall space. This combination works perfectly together in creating a chic and cosy environment in the living space.

There you have our tips and ideas for creating a beautifully refreshed fireplace. Show us your projects by tagging us in your pictures on Instagram, @wallsandfloors