Tile is an excellent choice for a fireplace surround as it won't retain too much heat and is easy to keep clean. And as you'll see here, there are as many aesthetic options as you can dream up!
Design by A 1000x Better | Photo by Virtually Here Studios
Classic Color
Black is a natural choice on a fireplace as the classic color easily disguises any smoke residue, and it suits a variety of decor styles. This homeowner chose black to update the original wood mantle and to ground the space and it also relates well to the wallpaper and to provides color continuity throughout the rest of the house. The dark shade of grout means maintenance is simple and the elongated shape of the tile is in keeping with the mid-century bones of the house.
Shop our similar style: Magma Black
Design by Katie Monkhouse Interiors | Photo by Margaret Austin
Stellar Stack
Tonal handcrafted tile in a vertical stack suits the home's style of clean and contemporary with hints of organic materials for texture. A shallow mantle of the same tile keeps the look simple and unfussy but offers a spot for added decor, if desired. Vertical stack draws the eye up, giving the illusion of a taller space; a good choice by designer Katie Monkhouse in a room with lower ceilings.
Shop our similar style: Handcraft Grey
Design by Lisa Staton | Photo by Haris Kenjar
Old-World Elegance
In a historic home like this classic Tudor revival, every choice is either made to enhance the original architecture or make a modern statement. With the current resurgence of interest in vintage-style tiles and materials, it's easy to get a look that strikes that balance between new and old.
Shop our similar style: Country Esmerald Green
Design by Raili Ca Design | Photo by Chad Mellon
All-Over Pattern
For a simple, straightforward look, forgo the mantle in favor of a full-height surround in a patterned tile. This more modern look works well in this smaller spaces like this one which is already fitted with plenty of woodwork in the vertical paneling, shelving, and built-in desks.
Shop our similar style: Muy Rustico Gris Flora
Design by Lindsey Brooke Design | Photo by Amy Bartlam
Small Scale, Big Impact
A small-scale mosaic adds pattern and interest, and looks chic paired with stone slab on the hearth. To offset the light tile, the mantle and overmantel are a dark ebonized wood for a look that is high contrast and high style. With a mosaic, the choice of grout can make a big difference -- a contrasting shade will bring out the shapes of the tile while a shade similar to the tile will give a softer, tonal vibe.
Shop our similar style: White Ceramic Triangle Mosaic