A tiled fireplace is more than just a heat source - it’s a gathering place, a design feature, and a statement piece. Whether you’re revamping an old hearth or designing a new one, these fireplace tile ideas will help you create a cozy and stylish focal point.
The right tile can completely transform a fireplace, turning it into a striking focal point that enhances your space. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a vintage-inspired design, there are endless possibilities for customization. This guide explores a range of ideas for tiling a fireplace, helping you find inspiration to bring your vision to life.
Explore Mercury Mosaics fireplace tile projects to get inspired for your next design!
1. Fireplace Surround Ideas
The fireplace surround frames the firebox and influences the entire room’s aesthetic. Tile offers a versatile way to customize this space, from classic subway tile patterns to bold, patterned designs. Choosing a tile design for a fireplace surround depends on the look you are going for. Handmade options add depth and texture, creating a look that feels intentional and unique. Whether you prefer a neutral palette or a vibrant pop of color, a fireplace tile surround can be tailored to suit any design preference, making it a standout element in your home.
Medium Moroccan Fish Scale in Wave
Photography and Interior Design by Moonstone
2. Fireplace Hearth Tiles
As both a functional and decorative element, the hearth deserves careful attention. Fireplace hearth tile ideas often incorporate stone-inspired tiles, while geometric patterns introduce a modern edge. Penny rounds or hexagon tiles create eye-catching effects that anchor the fireplace beautifully. Choosing a durable, heat-resistant material ensures that your hearth remains both stylish and practical, complementing the overall fireplace design.
3"x8" Subway Tile - Sapphire Blue
Small Hexagon Flower Blend - Iris Blend.
Photography and Interior Design - Sophie Loghman
3. Firebox Tiles
Tiling inside the fireplace adds an unexpected design element but requires heat-resistant materials. Dark, matte finishes enhance the fire’s glow, while lighter tones create contrast. Whichever you choose, adding tile brings subtle elegance to this high-heat area. A thoughtfully chosen firebox tile can introduce texture and depth, elevating the entire look of the fireplace while standing up to high temperatures.
3″x8″ Subway Tile - Costa Rica.
4. Fireplace Mantel Tile
Tiling the mantel area allows for creative expression, whether it’s a decorative accent or an extension of the surround. Intricate patterns and shapes can lend a timeless look, while stacked layouts keep things minimal and modern. Coordinating mantel tile with the fireplace surround creates a cohesive aesthetic, making the mantel a true focal point in the room.
Large Craftsman Squares - Amber
5. Fireplace Wall Tile
Extending tile to the surrounding wall can enhance the style of any room. A floor-to-ceiling tiled fireplace acts as a striking focal point, especially with rich textures and vibrant hues. Both our Rise and herringbone tile add depth and movement, transforming the entire space. Whether you opt for a uniform color or a mix of shades, there are endless fireplace wall tile ideas to enhance the ambiance and add dynamic elements to the fireplace area.
Rise - Black, Satin Black, Steel
6. Outdoor Fireplace Tile
Outdoor fireplaces require materials that can withstand the elements while still offering style. Durable, weather-resistant tiles in neutral or earthy tones work well in these spaces. Choosing a tile with texture and variation ensures that your outdoor fireplace remains visually appealing while withstanding temperature fluctuations and moisture exposure.
Shop the Mercury Mosaics full collection to explore unique tile shapes and colors!
Medium Moroccan Fish Scales - Amber. Photo Credit: @plaidpoppy
7. Modern Fireplace Tile Ideas
For a sleek, modern aesthetic, clean lines and minimalistic designs take center stage. Large-format tiles, monochromatic palettes, and geometric patterns create a modern feel. stacked rectangle tile is one of many modern fireplace tile ideas that offer a refined, streamlined effect. Opting for a high-contrast color scheme or subtle tonal variations can further enhance the fireplace’s presence in a modern space.
Large Moroccan Fish Scales Karen Melvin Photography
8. Vintage Tile Fireplace
Vintage fireplaces often showcase intricate patterns, hand-painted details, or mosaic designs. A mix of neutral and jewel-toned tiles can evoke an old-world charm. Quaint and traditional tile brings a nostalgic touch to any fireplace. Blending vintage-style tiles with reclaimed wood or antique fixtures enhances the character of a vintage-inspired hearth.
3”x12” Subway - Emerald
9. Contemporary Fireplace Tile Ideas
Contemporary designs favor bold contrasts and creative layouts. Mixing matte and glossy finishes, incorporating asymmetrical patterns, or experimenting with unique color palettes can add an artistic element. Cube Tile introduces a playful texture to contemporary fireplaces. Incorporating sleek metal accents or minimalist furnishings enhances the modern feel of a contemporary tiled fireplace.
10. Mid-Century Modern Tile Fireplace
Mid-century modern fireplaces embrace clean lines and natural textures. Warm earth tones, geometric motifs, and terrazzo-inspired designs reflect this style. Staggered Rectangle Tile captures the effortless sophistication of the era. A mix of warm and cool tones combined with organic materials helps create a timeless yet contemporary mid-century modern aesthetic.
Large Triangles - Evening Shadow, Black, Satin Black, Grey, Navy, Amber
Photography by Spacecrafting Photography
Design by Studio Grey
11. Farmhouse Fireplace Tile Ideas
A farmhouse-style fireplace combines rustic elements with a welcoming feel. White-washed tiles, subtle textures, and handcrafted designs enhance this cozy aesthetic. Two-toned tile adds a touch of character that fits seamlessly into farmhouse interiors. Whether paired with a wooden beam mantel or exposed brick, farmhouse tile designs bring warmth and charm to any living space.
1" x 2" Subway
Check out Mercury Mosaics sample tile packs to see which style best fits your space!
Find the Perfect Fireplace Tiles From Mercury Mosaics
Whether you’re dreaming of a modern, vintage, or farmhouse-style fireplace, Mercury Mosaics has the perfect handcrafted tiles to bring your vision to life. Explore our full tile collection and start designing your dream fireplace today. If you still need more inspiration, check out our gallery of fireplace tile ideas.
