11 Fireplace Accent Wall Ideas

11 Fireplace Accent Wall Ideas

by — Kari Apted
Published on September 27, 2021
Updated on March 26, 2025

“A house with no fireplace is a house without a heart.” – Gladys Taber

A fireplace is definitely the heart of any room, but without a beautiful fireplace wall, it’s simply a heat source. The materials and decorations you place around your fireplace can turn it from a boring feature to the room’s gorgeous centerpiece.

Brick, tile, marble, or stone—all are excellent fireplace accent wall ideas and can be designed to coordinate with any style of home decor. Look through our gallery of stunning fireplace accent wall ideas for inspiration on updating the heart of your home.

1. Discover Exposed Bricks for Your Fireplace Accent Wall

Transform your fireplace wall into a statement piece in any room! Exposed brick is a classic option that will give your home a touch of rustic elegance. If exposed brick isn’t for you, consider giving the wall a fresh coat of white paint to create a brighter, more airy atmosphere.

You can also opt for whitewashing; this method gives the bricks an aged look while still letting them remain visible. Whichever you decide, your fireplace wall will be sure to stand out!

Brick fireplace with a TV above, flanked by white shelves displaying decor, a basket on the hearth, and a gray rug on the floor — Source: @doxey_days via Instagram

A brick fireplace with two wall sconces, a small potted plant on the left, and two white candle holders on the hearth — Source: @modernretrosoul via Instagram

Cozy brick fireplace with garland, nutcracker figurines, and a sign reading "Wesleyan Chapel 1831," lit wood stove inside — Source: @ourlittlechapel via Instagram

Tall brick fireplace with a mantel, flanked by beige walls, ceiling fan above, Christmas garland visible on a balcony railing — Source: @raakhomedesigns via Instagram

2. Upgrade to Concrete for an Industrial-Modern Fireplace

Giving a concrete fireplace wall an industrial-modern touch can be the perfect addition to any transitional home. Whether you’re looking to revamp the interior of your living space with a new look, or just want to spruce up an old concrete wall, consider adding sleek concrete lining around the perimeter of the wall and equip it with industrial-style sconces on its sides.

Not only is this style trend a great way to appreciate the existing design of concrete walls, but you’ll also achieve an aesthetically sophisticated, yet cozy atmosphere in your home.

Modern living room with a sleek concrete fireplace wall, built-in wood shelving, and minimalist decor featuring a red vase — Source: @artistic_finishes via Instagram

Cozy stone fireplace wall with built-in shelves, firewood storage, and a mounted TV above a lit fire for a warm, rustic look — Source: @dwellingsinc via Instagram

Elegant fireplace wall with built-in shelving, mounted TV, and modern decor accents in a bright living room with a crystal chandelier — Source: @dreamcastdesign via Instagram

Rustic stone fireplace wall with a weathered wood mantel and modern inset firebox, adding charm to a minimalist space — Source: @landclanadventures via Instagram

Modern living room with a fireplace, vintage car photo on wall, decorative lighting, black and yellow accents, and large windows — Source: @planinteriors via Instagram

Modern corner fireplace wall with a smooth concrete finish, creating a cozy reading nook with stylish seating and soft lighting — Source: @surfacedesign.ca via Instagram

Contemporary fireplace wall with a sleek electric insert, wood mantel, vertical paneling, and mounted TV for a modern lounge vibe — Source: @modern_woodwork via Instagram

Modern living room with a dark tiled fireplace, wooden mantel, and plants; two leather chairs and a photograph above the fireplace — Source: @greendoorhomestaging via Instagram

Sleek black fireplace wall with a mounted TV and modern gas insert, framed by tall windows and minimalist décor — Source: @surfacedesign.ca via Instagram

Chic fireplace wall with a metallic finish, electric linear fireplace, and mounted TV, creating a glam and cozy entertainment space — Source: @fiftyshadesofhome via Instagram

Warm modern fireplace wall with large beige tiles, a mounted TV, open shelving, and natural wood accents for a cozy, airy vibe — Source: @eyohdesign via Instagram

Modern living room with a large TV above a sleek fireplace, grey and beige seating, abstract art, and large window in the background — Source: @kandqinteriors via Instagram

3. Choose Shiplap Walls for a Cozy Farmhouse Fireplace

A shiplap fireplace wall is a perfect way to bring a farmhouse-style vibe into your home. It is both timeless and modern and creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere that will make you never want to leave the room. Shiplap fireplace walls can be installed easily with a few tools, making them accessible even for homeowners not experienced in do-it-yourself projects.

To really take it up a notch, consider adding colored paint or stain to the shiplap wall to give your space its own unique character. With a shiplap around your fireplace, you can achieve that classic farmhouse look quickly!

Fireplace wall with geometric tile surround and white shiplap accent, set against bold navy walls for a fresh, modern contrast — Source: @cassandra_pernitsch via Instagram

Modern wall unit with built-in electric fireplace, gray shelves, and wood panel backdrop, set against a textured floor — Source: @rapsha_homes via Instagram

White shiplap fireplace with a TV above, decorated mantle, electric fire, ceramic tile floor, potted plant, and ceiling fan visible — Source: @nykie_designs via Instagram

Cozy fireplace wall with white shiplap, built-in shelves, electric fireplace, and mounted TV for a personalized family space — Source: @palm_trees_and_plywood via Instagram

Festive fireplace wall with stacked stone, white shiplap, holiday garland, and a mounted TV, creating a cozy seasonal centerpiece — Source: @mi.islandhome via Instagram

Modern living room with white sofas, round wooden coffee table, black shiplap fireplace, and a large circular chandelier — Source: @francois_modernfarmhouse via Instagram

A modern white shiplap fireplace with a black insert, clock, plants, and decorative items on the mantel, next to a TV stand — Source: @sabrina_louise_c via Instagram

A modern fireplace with a wooden mantel, circular mirror, candles, and a vase above, with flames visible in the firebox below — Source: @suitsandsawdust via Instagram

Cozy living room with a fireplace, corner chair, and sofa featuring decor such as a mirror, candles, garland, and a marble coffee table — Source: @thewillowwindow via Instagram

Charming fireplace wall with white shiplap, wood mantel, colorful mountain artwork, and a cozy fire beside a Christmas tree — Source: @emilyjcanterbury via Instagram

4. Add Recessed Log Storage for Functional Elegance

A fireplace wall with recessed log storage is an attractive, practical solution for keeping logs neatly at the ready. If you have a recessed shelf but no log storage, you should consider adding logs to your fireplace wall décor. Choose from lots of styles to suit your taste – from rustic wooden crates to more modern baskets.

Keep in mind that whatever option you choose must be able to withstand the heat from the fire, so consider a material such as metal or stone for this purpose. Finally, try adding some greenery nearby to soften the room and bring it a little bit of life.

Cozy living room with a fireplace, wood logs, festive decorations, and a plaid blanket on a ladder; minimalist and warm ambiance — Source: @dash_of_white via Instagram

Modern fireplace with a cozy fire burning, stacked firewood beside it, and decorative brown pottery on a gray textured wall — Source: @anna_homedesign via Instagram

Sleek modern fireplace wall with a corner electric fire, built-in TV, wood storage, and neutral tones for a cozy minimalist retreat — Source: @renovatingbungalow73 via Instagram

5. Embrace Minimalism with a Sleek White Fireplace Wall

Creating a cozy ambiance with a minimal fireplace wall doesn’t have to be difficult. If you are going for an understated look, simple white wall makes a good choice.

White fireplace wall is a great way to add a cozy, welcoming feel to any living room. You may find that white paint works brilliantly as a neutral backdrop for any colorful ornaments and furniture you choose to display in the room.

A modern living room with a wall-mounted TV, hexagonal shelves, a decorative fireplace, and vases with tall grasses on the floor — Source: @jilldunnfit via Instagram

A modern living room with a wall-mounted TV above a fireplace, light gray walls, white furniture, and a decorative chandelier — Source: @mother_daughter.interiors via Instagram

Living room with a wall-mounted TV above a fireplace, next to white shelves displaying photos, decor, and a clock — Source: @generationscustomcabinetry via Instagram

Modern living room with a white brick fireplace, wall-mounted TV, plants, wooden beams, and a decorative clock on the wall — Source: @thephillipsfarmhouse via Instagram

6. Experiment with Herringbone Patterns for Fireplace Flair

If you’re looking for a way to spruce up your fireplace wall, why not consider a herringbone pattern? This classic design is sure to add a touch of elegant charm to any room. Incorporate modern graphic tiles for a timeless look, or exposed bricks for an industrial-chic look.

Still want to make a bold statement? Opt for herringbone graphic tiles or lay exposed bricks in herringbone formations. Either way, make a lasting impression with this timeless pattern! Whatever you choose, your herringbone pattern will be sure to make your fireplace the centerpiece of the room.

A dark herringbone brick fireplace with a wooden mantel, TV, greenery, candles, and festive decorations including a scarecrow and basket — Source: @darby.dreamhouse via Instagram

Flat-screen TV mounted above a white fireplace with a taupe herringbone tile accent wall and arched window nearby — Source: @fixitright_handyman via Instagram

Cozy fireplace with herringbone-patterned blue tiles, adorned with Christmas decorations and a wreath above on a wooden mantel — Source: @floor_creations_inc via Instagram

Modern fireplace with black trim set in a white chevron-patterned wall, topped by a round mirror, and accompanied by a white vase with greenery on the side — Source: @unlockedpotentiall via Instagram

Elegant white fireplace wall with herringbone tile, festive holiday decor, built-in lighting, and classic trim for a timeless cozy feel — Source: @sapphireandmain via Instagram

7. Opt for Marble in Modern Gas Fireplace Designs

A marble fireplace wall adds a timeless elegance to any room. Whether you’re modernizing or seeking a classic look, marble’s natural hues and veins make it the perfect material to show off your fabulous style. Although beautiful, marble is a porous stone, so if you install a marble fireplace wall it needs to be protected with proper maintenance and care.

Modern fireplace wall with sleek white marble tiles, a linear electric insert, and floating shelves for a clean, minimalist finish — Source: @mykitchens_ottawa via Instagram

Modern living room with a marble fireplace, roaring fire, leather chair, geometric coffee table, and a colorful striped rug — Source: @ultimatestonechicago via Instagram

8. Enhance with Stamped Stone Tiles for Textured Appeal

A fireplace wall can be transformed with stamped stone tiles. While stone is profoundly durable and almost impervious to fire, stamped stone tiles will give your wall added texture.

The stamped stones come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing you to create a unique design that fits into the overall architectural context of your home. Installing stamped stones is straightforward, making this an easy yet visually appealing way to transform your fireplace walls.

Stone fireplace with a wooden mantel, black fireplace insert, surrounded by built-in white shelves on either side — Source: @j_hut92 via Instagram

Stone fireplace with a lit fire, flanked by tall windows and curtains, featuring herringbone brick detail above and a wooden mantel with decor — Source: @liggero51 via Instagram

Rustic stone fireplace wall styled with soft-toned decor, candles, and a cozy message sign for a warm and inviting living space — Source: @cassiefrenchdesigns via Instagram

Textured gray stone fireplace wall with a cozy fire, festive Christmas decor, and a small dog lounging on a plush rug — Source: @solunapazdesign via Instagram

Tall stone fireplace wall with a wood mantel and arched firebox, creating a cozy focal point in a bright, modern farmhouse living room — Source: @vivianrobinsdesign via Instagram

Textured tile fireplace wall with a dark wood mantel, mounted TV, and built-in sage green shelves for a classic, elegant living space — Source: @lvlprollc via Instagram

9. Create a Tuscan Ambiance with Fireplace Tilework

If you’re considering adding a classic, Tuscan-style fireplace wall to your home, there are plenty of options available. Consider classic tiles that encompass classic Italian design elements like terracotta, soft greys and whites, and classic patterns. Furthermore, consider adding robust wooden details that will help to accentuate the Tuscan design of your fireplace wall; these small touches can really bring an authentic Italian-style look to your home.

Whether you’re aiming for traditional Italian flare or something more modern, with a classic Tuscan-style fireplace wall you’ll be sure to have just the look that you imagined in mind.

Tiled fireplace with a wooden mantel and decorative black-and-white patterned base, surrounded by beige tiles — Source: @al3xdomenici via Instagram

10. Commit to a Monochrome Palette for Fireplace Sophistication

For an original and timeless aesthetic, a grey marble or grey tile fireplace wall would be the perfect addition to any living space. You could introduce some interesting nuances by mixing different shades and tones of grey – creating a unique monochrome look that is sure to catch anyone’s eye.

By thinking carefully about the grey tiles you’re including and making sure each contributes in its own way to this classic yet modern color pallet, you’ll have a fireplace wall that will stay beautiful for years to come.

A modern fireplace with a gray stone tile surround and white shiplap paneling on the wall — Source: @compton_tile via Instagram

Modern fireplace wall with geometric hex tile, festive garland, stacked firewood, and a cozy window seat for a stylish holiday nook — Source: @mama.zmajo via Instagram

Modern living room with a marble fireplace, lit with a warm fire, and a sculptural metallic chandelier overhead — Source: @uniikdesign via Instagram

11. Incorporate Distressed Wood for a Rustic Touch

For a beautiful rustic fireplace wall, distressed wood panels are a perfect choice. Choose from a variety of distressed wood styles to find the one that best matches the aesthetic in your home. For an added effect, combine distressed wood with other natural elements such as stones or mirror frames.

By using distressed wood panels and combining them with subtle accents, you will have an unforgettable focal point for any room in your home.

Rustic wood fireplace wall with horizontal planks, festive holiday stockings, and cozy decor for a warm and welcoming vibe — Source: @dinakupfer via Instagram

Cozy wood fireplace wall with a rustic mantel decorated with fabric pumpkins, perfect for a warm and inviting fall-themed living room — Source: @ezmountain.woodworking via Instagram

Can you put a TV on the wall above an open fire?

Yes, although it may seem questionable given the amount of heat a fireplace radiates. Protect your TV by directing the heat away from it. There are three primary ways to achieve this:

Build a recessed alcove for the TV.
Install a wide, thick mantel.
Purchase a fireplace insert with a fan to blow heat out into the room.

What can I put on my fireplace walls?

If you don’t hang a TV over your fireplace, any number of decorative accents will do. A large mirror can make your room appear brighter and larger, while a wreath adds a botanical accent. Use the walls surrounding your fireplace to showcase favorite artwork or family photos.