Fireplace Design Ideas with Natural Stone

When someone walks into a room that has a fireplace, their eyes automatically go to it. Now we have high tech central heating systems and no longer need fireplaces for heat and especially not for cooking our meals. But maybe there's something in our DNA that makes us want them, love them and feel comforted simply by there presence.

Since your fireplace is going to take center stage in your living room or whichever room you have it, you will want it to reflect your taste and style. The fireplace is a focal point that sets the tone for the home. Often hung above the fireplace or on the mantle a homeowner will put their most valued treasure. Often it's a work of art, family photo or heirloom. Now people are putting their giant flat screen televisions above the fireplace, which is quite smart in a den area because the television and fireplace can be easily enjoyed simultaneously.

It doesn't matter if your home is contemporary, traditional or shabby chic, there's a perfect fireplace design for you. Natural stone is the preferred option by most people because it is fireproof and will last forever. There are a plethora of natural stone choices available that come in a huge variety of textures, colors and patterns. Granite, marble, limestone and slate are just of few of the most popular choices.

The price will also vary depending on the type of stone you choose. Most stone fireplaces are hand carved from natural pieces or slabs and designed to match your fireplace perfectly. By working with a qualified mason worker, you can choose from designs and have all of the stone custom made. For instance, if you want something that is softer in appearance, you could choose a natural colored piece of granite with specs of other colors and then round the corners. If you want something that has greater impact, you could choose from large, river stone that have variation in color. Limestone and granite are probably the two most popular choices. The color options are gorgeous and the prices affordable for the quality you get. Marble is also a great choice but will generally cost a little more. Working with a professional gives you an advantage in that you can work closely to ensure you get exactly what you want.