There was a time when the hearth was primarily made of brick. But this was also when it did most of the legwork when it came to cooking. Today’s fireplace is far more aesthetic than it is functional, and the materials it’s made of are as diverse as the owners of the home itself. The material you choose for a fireplace surround makes a strong design statement. And no matter what your style preference, there’s a material to help you reflect your unique personality. 

From sleek and modern to classic and traditional, the possibilities are virtually endless. Marble, granite , soapstone and slate, and Neolith are some popular materials. And another material you may not immediately think of when you’re thinking of fireplace surrounds, Caesarstone is an excellent heat-resistant material to consider for the fireplace. Here are a few examples of fireplace surrounds using these materials:

Marble

Traditionally styled marble fireplace surround by Encore Construction; photo via Houzz

Just like in the kitchen or bath, a marble fireplace surround adds drama. Whether it’s in all white Blanco Carrara or richly textured Caramel Onyx, marble can add a sense of cool modernity or natural warmth. Marble offers a very “finished,” often formal look, but it also conveys a sense of timeless luxury.

Granite

 Granite fireplace surround by LDa Architecture & Interiors; photo via Houzz

Popular for many of the same reasons as marble, granite is versatile, distinctive, and beautiful. Just like marble, every granite slab is one-of-a-kind. There are an infinite number of colors and patterns to choose from, none of which will ever be duplicated in nature. With unique veins, swirls, and specs in each slab, you can find a piece to fit nearly every preference and decorating scheme.

Soapstone and Slate

Unoiled soapstone fireplace surround by Siemasko + Verbridge; photo by Houzz

Whether honed or polished, both soapstone and slate have become two of the more sought-after materials for fireplace surrounds. They offer a wide range of appearances just by altering the finish. A polished finish will mimic the gleam and gloss of marble and honed finishes offer more of a smooth feel and subtle look. Natural finishes, without a uniform surface, also offer their own distinctive, more natural look.

Neolith

Neolith Fireplace Surround; photo by THESIZE

Neolith  by THESIZE  a high-performance material that is impervious to scratching, stains, heat, fire, chemicals, cold, heat, and even UV rays. It comes in a multitude of finishes and in slabs so large that it can be used to achieve long stretches of walls without seams or joints. Neolith is a very light material that won’t scorch. It’s so easy to clean that buildup from a wood fire may be easily wiped away. Another interesting attribute of Neolith is that it comes in such thin slabs (3- to 5- millimeter thickness) that it’s perfect when you want to achieve a slim profile. Plus, it can be placed directly over nearly any existing material, making renovations easier and cleaner.

Caesarstone

Engineered quartz materials, like Caesarstone, are a functional, versatile, and beautiful solution for many areas of the home. The fireplace surround is a place where we’re seeing an increase in use. Homeowners are recognizing the fact that the wide variety of colors, patterns, and finishes to choose from helps to create a striking fireplace design that adds personality to the overall design of the room. Plus, it’s a tremendously high performance material that offers unique heat resistance.  

Visit one of our showrooms to explore the possibilities for your fireplace surround, countertops, or any area of the home where you’re looking to reflect your unique personality.