Fireplace Surround Materials: Stone, Tile, Shiplap & More

So, you’re staring at your fireplace, wondering how to give it a glow-up that doesn’t involve just tossing another log in there. Maybe you’re bored of the same old brick, or perhaps you’re starting from scratch and need some serious inspiration. Either way, you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right fireplace surround material can make or break your space—literally, if you pick something flammable (please don’t).

I’ve spent way too many weekends obsessing over fireplace designs, and let me tell you, the options are endless. Stone, tile, shiplap—each brings its own vibe, durability, and, let’s be honest, price tag. Some scream “cozy cabin,” while others whisper “modern minimalist.” And then there’s the wildcard materials that make you go, “Wait, you can use that?” (Spoiler: You can.)

So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s break down the best fireplace surround materials to help you find the perfect match. Because nothing says “I have my life together” like a fireplace that looks like it belongs in a magazine—even if the rest of your house is held together by sheer will and Amazon Prime deliveries.

1. Stone: The Timeless Classic

If you want a fireplace surround that screams “I’ve been classy for centuries,” stone is your go-to. Whether it’s sleek marble, rugged slate, or the ever-popular stacked stone, this material brings instant gravitas to any room. Plus, it’s basically indestructible—unless you’re planning to take a sledgehammer to it for fun (no judgment).

Natural stone has this organic texture that makes even the most modern spaces feel warm. And if you’re worried about cost, veneers are a great budget-friendly alternative that still give you that high-end look. Just don’t skimp on installation—unless you enjoy the “crumbling ruins” aesthetic.

Pro tip: Lighter stones like limestone or travertine keep things airy, while darker options like slate or granite add drama. And if you’re feeling extra, mix stone with wood accents for a rustic-meets-refined vibe.

2. Tile: The Versatile Showstopper

Tile is like the Swiss Army knife of fireplace surrounds—endless colors, patterns, and textures, all ready to bend to your design whims. Want a bold Moroccan vibe? Hexagonal tiles in jewel tones. Prefer something sleek and modern? Large-format porcelain in matte black. The world (or at least your local home improvement store) is your oyster.

I once spent an embarrassing amount of time debating between subway tile and handmade zellige for my own fireplace. Spoiler: I went with zellige because the subtle imperfections made it feel alive. But subway tile is a classic for a reason—clean, crisp, and impossible to mess up. Unless you install it crooked. Then, well, good luck.

Here’s the best part: Tile is relatively affordable and easy to clean. Spilled wine? Wipe it off. Kids’ sticky fingerprints? Gone in seconds. Just avoid glossy finishes if your fireplace gets heavy use—they show every speck of soot.

3. Shiplap: The Cozy Farmhouse Favorite

Thanks to a certain HGTV star, shiplap is everywhere—and for good reason. It’s warm, it’s charming, and it makes your fireplace feel like it belongs in a seaside cottage (even if you’re actually in a suburban split-level). Horizontal lines create the illusion of width, which is great if your room feels cramped. Plus, it’s stupidly easy to install—just don’t tell the contractors I said that.

You can paint shiplap white for that classic farmhouse look, or go moody with charcoal or navy for a modern twist. And if you’re feeling adventurous, mix it with other materials like tile or stone for a layered effect. Just don’t overdo it—your entire house doesn’t need to be shiplap. Unless you’re going for the “I live inside a Pinterest board” aesthetic.

Fair warning: Shiplap collects dust like it’s its job. But hey, nothing’s perfect. A quick swipe with a microfiber cloth every now and then keeps it looking fresh.

4. Metal: The Industrial Edge

If you’re into the whole “urban loft” thing (or just want to pretend you are), metal surrounds are where it’s at. Think blackened steel, brass, or even copper for a touch of warmth. Metal brings a sleek, modern edge that works especially well with gas fireplaces or those fancy ethanol burners.

I once saw a fireplace framed in patinated copper, and it was *chef’s kiss*. Over time, the metal developed this rich, mottled finish that made it look like a piece of art. Of course, not all metals age gracefully—some just end up looking like your college dorm mini-fridge. Do your research.

Metal does get hot, so keep that in mind if you have tiny humans or pets who lack common sense. And unless you’re going for the “abandoned factory” vibe, pair it with softer textures like wood or linen to balance the hardness.

5. Concrete: The Modern Minimalist’s Dream

Concrete might sound cold (literally and figuratively), but hear me out. A concrete fireplace surround is like the cool, mysterious stranger in a room full of chatty extroverts. It’s understated, it’s sleek, and it pairs perfectly with mid-century modern or Scandinavian decor.

You can go polished for a refined look or leave it raw for some industrial grit. And if gray isn’t your thing, concrete can be tinted or stained—I’ve seen everything from soft blush to deep charcoal. Just know that it’s heavy AF, so reinforce your floors unless you want your fireplace to become a basement feature.

Concrete does require sealing to prevent stains, especially if you’re a red wine enthusiast. But once it’s set up, it’s basically zero-maintenance. Plus, it holds heat like a champ, so you get bonus coziness points.

6. Reclaimed Wood: The Eco-Friendly Statement

If you’re the type who rescues vintage furniture from flea markets (or at least stalks #upcycling on Instagram), reclaimed wood is your soulmate. Each piece has its own history—nail holes, saw marks, and all—which adds instant character. Barn wood, old beams, even salvaged shipping pallets (if you’re patient enough to sand them) can create a surround that feels one-of-a-kind.

I once helped a friend install a reclaimed wood surround using old fence posts. It took forever to clean them up, but the result was worth it—rustic without looking like a cowboy threw up in their living room. Just make sure the wood is properly treated to handle the heat, or you’ll have a very exciting (read: terrifying) surprise.

Pair reclaimed wood with black metal accents for an industrial feel, or keep it simple with white walls and neutral decor. Either way, it’s a conversation starter. “Oh this? Just some 100-year-old wood I found in a ditch. No big deal.”

So there you have it—six fireplace surround materials that can take your hearth from “meh” to “magazine spread.” Whether you’re Team Stone, obsessed with tile, or all about that shiplap life, the key is picking something that fits your style *and* your lifestyle. Because nothing kills the vibe faster than realizing your dream surround requires more upkeep than a Tamagotchi.

Still on the fence? Take a cue from your favorite room in the house. Love the kitchen’s subway tile? Steal the look. Obsessed with the living room’s exposed brick? Fake it with veneer. Your fireplace should feel like part of the home, not a random design experiment gone wrong.

Now go forth and build the fireplace of your dreams. Or at least pin a few more inspiration photos. I won’t judge—my Pinterest board is basically a shrine to hearths I’ll never afford. Happy decorating!