Simple ideas to make your fire the star of the room all year round.
A fireplace is more than just a heat source; it’s a natural focal point. Whether you’ve chosen a classic stove or a sleek, modern gas fire, how you style the space around it can make all the difference. Here are some straightforward, effective ways to make your fire stand out for all the right reasons.
Choosing Paint Colours That Work With Your Fireplace
Want your fireplace to pop? It’s all about contrast.
If you’ve got a dark fire surround such as black cast iron or deep slate, go for lighter walls to help it stand out. Crisp whites, soft greys, or even magnolia (making a big comeback in 2025 interior trends!) will do the trick. However, if your fire surround is pale ( for instance limestone or micro marble), darker and richer wall colours will frame it beautifully.
Prefer a neutral palette? Add depth by experimenting with different finishes. We like matte on the walls and eggshell on trims, it keeps things interesting without going bold.
Create an Accent Wall Around the Fireplace
If you’re up for something a bit braver, an accent wall can elevate the whole room. Textured paints, bold colour blocks, or wallpaper behind the fire can draw the eye and make the space feel designed, even if everything else is simple.
Some of our favourite looks:
• Soft botanical wallpapers paired with traditional stoves
• Charcoal paint behind a white fireplace for drama
• Terracotta tones for a warm, cosy vibe year-round
If you’re going for wallpaper, make sure it’s heat-resistant and not too close to the fire, safety first!
Furniture Placement: Don’t Block the View
The golden rule? Let your fire breathe.
Try to place seating so it frames the fireplace, not competes with it. Position armchairs at angles to draw attention inward, or anchor your sofa opposite the fire with a rug and coffee table in between.
Make sure there’s enough space to walk past the fire comfortably, especially if you’ve got a stove that needs refuelling.
Styling for the Seasons (and Beyond)
A few easy swaps can take your fireplace from a winter centrepiece to summer focal point.
Winter: Think log baskets, lanterns, chunky throws, and natural textures.
Spring/Summer: Try a large mirror or statement artwork above the mantel, vases with fresh or dried flowers, and light, airy accessories like ceramics or coastal-style ornaments.
Even when your fire’s off, the surround can still feel intentional. A summer wreath on the chimney breast, or a group of candles in the hearth, keeps the space feeling warm just in a different way.
Light It Right
Lighting can really enhance your fireplace setup, especially in the evenings and dark Scottish winter months.
• Wall lights on either side of the chimney breast add a soft glow and help balance the layout.
• Picture lights above a mantelpiece are great if you’ve styled with art.
• Uplights at the base of the chimney breast or behind a freestanding stove can add atmosphere without overpowering the fire itself.
And don’t forget natural light. If your fire’s in a darker corner, mirrors and soft furnishings in lighter colours can help bounce daylight around the room.
You don’t need to be an interior designer to make your fireplace look good. A few well-chosen colours, some clever styling, and the right lighting can transform your living space and show off your fire at its best, lit or unlit.
Thinking about upgrading your fireplace? We’re happy to help you find a style that fits your home perfectly. Pop into one of our showrooms or check out our website for inspiration.
Living Fires 