A fireplace surround is a decorative frame installed all around the fireplace, and most commonly incorporates the hearth and fireplace mantel. If you have a fireplace, you probably know that it’s a very important component of the room. And with the right fireplace surround, a fireplace can become the centerpiece, as attractive as any piece of art.
New homes these days frequently are built with only a basic fireplace, which is really just a simple metal firebox with no adornment. Just by adding a fireplace surround, you can transform the fireplace into an elegant focal point of any room, in terms of both appearance and as a gathering place.
Although a concrete fireplace surround is the most common, they are also made from a number of different materials such as brick, stone, slate, marble, wood, plaster, tile and even styrofoam, in a variety of colors and designs. If you prefer brick or stone you can select either pre-fabricated or natural products. There is an excellent variety of colors and styles available for each and the prices are quite similar.
A beautifully designed fireplace surround is almost a work of art in itself. You can further enhance this showpiece with lighting, glass, and mirrors.
When planning your fireplace surround keep a few points in mind. In order to maintain the look and feel of a room, the surround should complement the trim around the doors and windows. If you can see your fireplace from the kitchen, it should also blend with the flooring and cabinets there.
You can purchase fire surrounds at your local fireplace tools and accessories store, or find a wide variety of designs and materials at online retailers. There are also fireplace surround kits available that allow you to install your own surround. Some of these products feature interchangeable mirror, marble or ceramic tiles; this allows you to create a whole new look in just a few minutes.







