With Christmas around the corner, knowing how to hang stockings is an important nugget of information you should have in your wheelhouse if you want to fill your home with festive cheer. After all, these stockings aren’t just for presents. They’re for decoration, too. 

As one of the Ideal Home team’s favourite budget Christmas decorating ideas, stockings are an affordable and inexpensive addition to any home. But finding a way to hang stockings without doing permanent damage can seem impossible - especially if you don’t have a fireplace.  

That’s why we’ve asked the experts for tips and tricks on how to easily hang stockings in your home without using nails, no matter whether you have a fireplace or not. In fact, there are so many places you can hang stockings you’ve probably never thought of before. 

How to hang stockings 

‘Stockings are becoming stylish and a mandatory part of a home’s festive aesthetic, which is why it’s important to carefully judge where they’re placed and how they’re presented,’ explains Nic Shacklock from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk. If you need some tips on how to hang stockings in your home - whether you have a fireplace or not - we’ve got you covered. 

How to hang stockings on a fireplace

Fireplaces have long been the traditional place to hang your stockings - but you don’t necessarily need a working fireplace to bring this aesthetic to the Christmas table. Whatever mantelpiece idea you’ve brought to life, there are so many ways to hang stockings on a fireplace without having to use nails or do any permanent damage. 

Use stocking hangers

Stocking hangers are perfect for those who want to add some extra festive flair to their fireplace, mostly because they look like decorations in themselves! There are so many different types of stocking hangers out there, but most come with a weighted base and a hook to hang your stocking from.

As the weighted base sits on the mantelpiece, it should take a fair amount of weight. Of course, it’s always good to check the specs of the specific stocking hanger you want to buy to ensure you don’t overload it with Christmas treats. 

Use a curtain pole

We’ve already seen how a curtain pole can revolutionise how to hang a door garland, but it turns out that a curtain pole can also help you hang your stockings on your fireplace without having to drill any holes or cause any permanent damage. 

To do this, all you need to do is measure your fireplace and then find a curtain pole that is as wide as the mantelpiece (you could even buy an extendable curtain pole if that’s easier). Then, stick some heavy-duty Command hooks onto the top of the mantel, and hang the curtain rod from the hooks using some festive ribbon. 

To finish, slide your stocking hooks onto the curtain pole. You could even add some more festive decorations onto the pole if you wanted to, and Tricia Guild, OBE. Founder & Creative Director of Designers Guild says, ‘The fireplace at Christmas is the perfect opportunity to inject some colour and personality above your stocking selections. Introduce charming garlands and plenty of foliage, opting for accompanying pinecones and branches too, for a truly traditional feel.’

Use Command hooks

The Ideal Home team love Command products. And while these adhesive and removable hooks are handy all year round, they are particularly handy around Christmas time. Not only can they help you hang a garland around your front door, but they can also help you hang lights around your windows. 

But it seems as though their uses are never-ending, as Command hooks are also a great way to hang your stockings on your fireplace. The best way to use these hooks is to stick them to the top of your mantelpiece, fairly close to the edge, and then hide them with some festive foliage or fairy lights. 

You can then hang the hooks of your stockings over the Command hooks. However, you should always choose hooks that will take the weight of your stockings - especially when they’re filled. 

While hanging a stocking on a fireplace is both traditional and stylish, Joanna Humphreys, Fire and Stove Specialist at Direct Stoves has issued a warning to those hanging stockings on their fireplaces this year. ‘When it comes to hanging stockings safely, we would always suggest moving these temporarily when the fire is lit, or if your electric fire heater is turned on as they could pose a safety hazard,’ she says. 

How to hang stockings without a fireplace

If you don’t have a fireplace, you don’t have to kiss goodbye to your dreams of hanging up your stockings. There are so many ways to hang stockings without a fireplace and so many other areas of your home that are screaming out for this extra decoration.

Hang from your staircase

In recent years, it seems as though more and more people are using stockings for decoration on their staircases - and the Ideal Home team is a huge fan of this new trend. Plus, there are so many ways to do this, and you can either hang them from the bannister itself or from the spindles. 

While you can use Command hooks to do this, perhaps the easiest and most aesthetically pleasing way to hang stockings from your staircase is to use a strong ribbon and then finish off with a bow. After all, Christmas tree ribbon ideas are everywhere this year - so why not add some ribbons to your stairs, too?

'Ribbons are the perfect method for hanging stockings on your staircase this Christmas,' says Margaret Larson from Sustainable Furniture.'Not only do they ensure a damage-free attachment but they also add a special decorative touch to your staircase.'

'Simply, cut a small strip of ribbon and thread it through the hook of your stocking, then thread this around the bannister of your stairs and tie in a bow. Make sure to double knot your ribbon before tying it in a bow, this will ensure that your stockings remain securely attached throughout the festive period.'

Hang from bed frames

If you’ve invested in the best mattress and know you will struggle to get out of bed on Christmas morning, why don’t you hang your stocking from your bed frame? Not only will this give you the chance to start the big day with a smile on your face, but it’ll also give you the chance to add some Christmas decor to your bedroom - a room that’s often left out of the festive equation. 

This idea couldn’t be simpler, as many bed frames come with spindles that you can hook your stockings onto. If yours doesn’t, simply attach them using Command hooks anywhere you like. 

Hang on windows

Stuck with some more Christmas window ideas? Well, if you want to know how to hang a stocking without a fireplace, your windows could be your next best bet. By hanging your stockings on your window, you can add some festive magic for you and your neighbours to enjoy, and they’re out of the way of small hands if you have children.

The best way to hang your stockings from your windows is to invest in some suction cup hooks. These hooks will form a strong seal when suctioned to the windows, and many can also take a huge amount of weight - which is perfect for those who like to go hard on presents for stockings. 

Hang from door handles

There are so many areas around the house that are often forgotten about when looking to hang stockings in the home - and this is certainly the case with door handles. Whether you hang them on the inside or outside of your doors, this idea is not only practical for those with little space, but it can also aid in adding a pop of colour to a room. 

Thrifty shopper Jo Threlfall from L'espoir De Ma Vie is particularly fond of this idea, and has hung her own stockings on the doors of her one-bedroom flat. ‘We liked how it brought a bit of a nostalgic touch as it's outside our bedroom door and brings back those childhood memories,’ she explained.

You need to be careful when hanging stockings on door handles, though. Nic says, ‘Only place it where the handles aren’t too low to the ground, or it’ll look unattractive amidst the decorations. If you don’t want the stocking to look plain and boring, add red poinsettia, holly, chestnuts and evergreen branches to give it a festive spruce up.’

The best Christmas stockings

If you haven’t bought your Christmas stockings yet, here are some that have caught our eye this year. 

FAQs

So, where will you be hanging your stockings this year?

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

We’ve all swooned over lounges boasting stunning fireplaces centre-stage. But what about no fireplace living room ideas? Where's all the love for them?

Because if your space doesn't have a fireplace, it needn’t be left out in the cold. Real flames are not the only focal point opportunity and there are plenty of smart steps you can take to inject similar warmth into your living room ideas, without fire. 

‘Not having a fireplace in your living room doesn’t mean that you can't create the cosy vibe you desire. The key is to focus on comfort, aesthetics and personalisation,’ says Kate Conrad, lead designer at Madison and Mayfair. ‘The first step would be to think of which wall is the focal point as that would be the wall with a striking statement such as a large piece of artwork or a mirror.’ 

Adding indoor plants to your living room will also help, as well as adding more substantial fixtures and features, such as bookshelves and rugs, which can all come together to generate that cosy atmosphere. 

No fireplace living room ideas

Whether you are struggling with styling small living room ideas or overcoming spatial challenges in a larger, cavernous space, our experts have plenty of hot tips and clever tricks for decorating your no fireplace living room ideas in a way that won't feel at all compromised.

1. Go faux

Your no fireplace living room ideas may not have an actual working hearth, but you can create the look by boxing out a faux chimneybreast using simple stud-frames and plasterboard. 

‘A false chimneybreast can bring much-needed shape to boxy living rooms and provide a natural focal point,’ says interior designer, Louise Robinson. ‘Brick slips inside the ‘hearth’ will boost authenticity, while shelves either side will recreate the fireplace alcove scenario familiar in many period properties.’

As you won’t need the full depth of a working chimney, the space sacrifices will be minimal – just 30cm deep is sufficient to achieve the impression of a chimneybreast without losing too much valuable floorspace. Here, pretty zellige tiles ensure the ‘fireplace’ takes centre-stage.

2. Dress (windows) to impress

If you don’t have a living room fireplace, it’s the perfect opportunity to draw the eye to the windows, especially if the windows in question boast expansive views. Even if they overlook the neighbour’s fence, dressing windows and glass doors beautifully will lock down their status as the room’s focal point.

‘Opt for floor-to-ceiling curtains in a classical print to imbue no fireplace living room ideas with a sense of grandeur,’ suggests Yvonne Keal, senior product manager at Hillarys. 

‘Soft, neutral shades will help create a calming feel and will work with many different decor styles. Natural, linen-look fabrics will enhance the authentic feel, while thermal linings can not only keep off the chill, but also help to create a rich, full look at the window.'  

3. Choose impactful art

While no fireplace living room ideas aren't exactly ideal, it could be the chance to flex some creative freedom by plotting a fabulous picture wall. Whether you decide to go for a full-on gallery wall, or a sophisticated triptych of outsized prints, there are plenty of high impact living room picture wall ideas that can prove even more visually interesting than a fireplace.    

‘If you are looking to achieve a strong focal point with art, using a range of striking designs or colours will instantly add personality to your space and draw your eyes towards the feature,’ says Anna Elkington, director of Melody Maison.

‘For minimalist living rooms a gallery wall doesn’t have to be overwhelming, by making sure artwork fits your living room style the results can be subtle but effective. A top tip is to stick to a specific colour scheme and ensure your artwork is cohesive by using the same style and colour frames throughout,’ she adds.  

4. Commission a media cabinet

Savvy media units make an excellent fireplace replacement boasting extra storage benefits and a beautiful way to frame a large television – movie nights incoming! Opt for a made-to-measure unit to maximises its full potential. 

‘From the configuration through to the finish, a made to measure built-in media cabinet will ensure you make the best use of available space and can be tailored to your unique requirements,'says Rachal Hutcheson from Sharps.

'Choosing a luxurious finish and adding bespoke elements like under shelf lighting will create a cosy atmosphere, making your cinematic evenings even more enjoyable.'

5. Embrace bioethanol

Bioethanol fireplaces feature real flames but without the hassle of cleaning and maintaining a fireplace.  ‘They’re a great way to achieve the cosiness of a fireplace, and can be installed by anyone, without the need for a flue or chimney, which means it can be placed anywhere you’d like without having to worry about fumes, soot or the like,’ explains Sara Mølnitz, Marketing Manager, Bioethanol Fireplace.

 A bioethanol fireplace runs on bioethanol fuel which is produced from biological material making it an eco-friendlier choice. Look for bioethanol that has an alcohol percentage between 95% to 97.5% – lower will burn a blueish flame and have a strong odour, while higher will burn too fast and too hot.  

Bioethanol fireplaces are not designed to heat your entire home but they can certainly add cosiness to a new build living room. And, as when buying a woodburner, you should match the heat output of the bioethanol fireplace to the dimensions of the room you’re heating. One litre of bioethanol fuel should burn for four-eight hours, depending on heat setting.

6. Hang a mirror

Mirrors make great statement pieces, with the added benefit of boosting the sense of light and space in your no fireplace living room ideas. ‘Placing a mirror above a low cabinet or shelf will mimic the design of a fireplace and create a centrepiece within your living room,’ adds designer Anna. 

‘If you’re looking to attract attention to a certain area of your room then choose an oversized mirror with a unique design or frame. However, make sure the mirror fits with your space, if it is too big it could look out of place and stand out for all the wrong reasons.’

7. Add colour and texture

To mimic the warm, cosy atmosphere of a fireplace in your new build home, interior designer Matthew Williamson promotes the power of choosing warm colours for your walls. 

‘I am loving a soft plaster pink at home at the moment, as it feels like a new neutral – it’s warmer than grey and more interesting than beige,’ he enthuses. ‘Drench the living room with it and paint the woodwork, window frames, ceiling or even a piece of furniture in the same shade to create interest and add warmth to the space without it needing a fireplace. You can also choose similar tones of the same colour to layer on the warmth and create a similar effect.’

For extra layers of texture and colour, Matthew recommends investing in accessories such as velvet cushions and printed bed throws in rich chocolate, mustard yellow, cinnamon and burnt orange tones. ‘I feel this palette will work well against most neutrals and soft colours and will instantly add a cosy element to the room,’ he adds.

8. Build bookshelves

Distract attention away from an empty wall in a no-fireplace living room by covering it in bookshelves. You could bolt flatpack bookshelves together to fill a wall and create a library focal point.

Take the shelving from wall-to-wall and right up to the ceiling to get that exclusive ‘member’s club’ aesthetic. You could attach moulding to the top and bottom to give it more of a built-in look, boosting the style and making it look more expensive. Painting them a deep, warm colour will make them look more cosy.

9. Look up

Focus attention above by giving your ceiling a major glow up. A fabulous ceiling rose, gorgeous coving and punchy light fittings can all be used to turn all eyes upwards upon entering a living room! 

‘Wallpapering the ceiling or going for a full colour-block approach with rich paint colours can also add drama overhead, so the absence of a fireplace will go completely unnoticed,’ adds interior designer Louise Robinson. The more interesting you can make the ceiling, the better; think gold leaf panelling, vintage mirror or lime-washed tongue-and-groove for a cute coastal vibe.

10. Source a statement dresser

Using a statement dresser as the centrepiece is a creative way to add character and functionality in a living room that lacks a fireplace. Source a glazed design to keep dust at bay and let your inner stylist loose by creating beautiful displays of your favourite books, photos and other treasures. Change with the shelfie action up with the seasons or to match upholstery updates in the room.

‘When sourcing a statement dresser, it’s important to choose a size that will give at least one meter of space surrounding the piece. This will stop it from feeling too cramped,’ advises interior designer Rudolph Diesel. ‘Be sure to add a decorative lamp or pendant light for some atmospheric lighting, and I’d recommend trying to colour co-ordinate the dresser with the style of the rest of the room.’ 

FAQs

Traditional fireplace ideas are a stalwart of the period home – whether cast-iron Victorian designs or the exposed brick inglenooks of humble cottages, they bring with them a sense of history, warmth and character. 

Unfortunately, many homes are not lucky enough to retain their original fireplace ideas as mid-20th-century renovation projects saw many removed in favour of more efficient gas fires. 

However,  traditional fireplace ideas have seen a revival in recent years, with homeowners reinstating originals, or installing new, antique or reproduction designs. While highly inefficient and not ideal as a sole heating method, open fires are loved for the unrivalled atmosphere they evoke.

Traditional fireplace ideas

Starting life as a simple fire pit roaring in the middle of the room, traditional fireplace ideas have always been a central part of the home. Yet, it was only with the arrival of two-storey buildings in the 12th century that the fireplace found its position against the wall, with smoke routed outside via a chimney. 

Historically the fireplace was purely functional – the only source of heat in the home, and somewhere cooking could take place. Today, ovens and central heating have diminished this role, and instead, it is the fireplace’s romantic ambience that appeals to homeowners. Although open fires are one of the less efficient heating methods, recently there has been a surge in renovators reinstating them as a cosy and welcoming way to reconnect their homes with the past.  

If you are looking to fit or reinstate a fireplace, it is vital to first check that you don’t live in a smoke control area as this will prohibit you from burning wood or coals – ask your local authority. You will also need to ensure that you know how to clean a chimney and that it is regularly checked and swept, to keep it safe and functional.

1. Embrace heritage charm with a Tudor design

The earliest surviving traditional fireplace ideas were typically built from brick and left exposed. They would house a small fire with inglenooks either side; these could range from small spaces that provided log storage ideas or larger areas with seating. This fireplace, in a 1580s house, was uncovered behind a 1930s gas fire, and is beautifully finished with a stone hearth and recessed wooden lintel.

Tudor traditional fireplace ideas can be just as at home in a grand manor house or as part of small living room fireplace ideas.

2. Go for a timeless look with a Georgian design

Similar to modern fireplace ideas, Georgian fireplaces were about making a statement, featuring generous proportions and classic motifs. Wealthy homeowners opted for marble or stone fireplace ideas, while more modest designs were of painted wood, with veining added to emulate the look. 

The rise of mantelpiece ideas saw homeowners adding decorative items to the ledge and were typically matched with ornate overmantel mirrors. Seen here is Stovax's Georgian-style cast-iron mantel in matt black with Adelaide insert and ashpan cover.

3. Channel Bridgeton-chic with a regency design

 ‘Regency fireplaces marked a high point in English design. Usually carved in marble, they are typified by lightness and refinement, often with a flat mantle shelf. Details such as S-curve corbels, the bullseye roundel and floral pateras were also popular,’ says Charlotte Freemantle, co-founder at Jamb. 

‘Being shorter than their Georgian predecessors and more disciplined in design, Regency fireplaces are perfect for small rooms living room ideas.’ 

4. Embrace authentic Victorian design with tiling

Victorian fireplaces are one of the most iconic traditional fireplace ideas – instantly recognisable for their decorative fireplace tile ideas that flank the cast-iron grate. Designs ranged from floral motifs to embossed friezes and were typically bright and eye-catching in their colour schemes. The Victorian Fireplace Store has myriad antique and reproduction designs available.

If you're concerned about efficiency, you can pair a traditional fireplace ideas with more modern wood burner ideas.

5. Celebrate the ornate nature of Victorian design

Appearing in almost every room, traditional fireplace ideas were an essential part of the Victorian home. Cast iron was the favoured grate material, as it can withstand extreme heat (up to 1,400˚C) and is compatible with both wood and coal. Slate or tiles were the popular fireplace hearth ideas.

In lower-status rooms, a modest grate would be paired with a functional, understated surround. In contrast, the main rooms – for example, living rooms and dining rooms – would be home to decorative inserts paired with marble, slate or carved wood surrounds and ornate tiling on either side of the grate.

6. Prioritise efficiency with an Edwardian fireplace

When it comes to buying a fire and fireplace, knowing the period of your home is a great starting point.

Edwardian traditional fireplace ideas prioritised heat output and lower fuel consumption. In this era, the cheeks were splayed to direct more heat into the room and grate sizes shrunk to reflect the need for less fuel. Aesthetics played a part, too, and styles drew on classical yet modest designs. Shelving became an attractive addition with space for ornaments. 

7. Create a bold focal point with an Art Nouveau design

Despite coinciding with the start of the Edwardian period, Art Nouveau fireplaces were highly stylised. These traditional fireplace ideas often featured floral embellishments with designs influenced by the natural world. They would be made from cast-iron, stone or wood. 

This Art Nouveau fireplace was a reclaimed find and originally came from a girls school in Penzance – and makes the perfect focal point in this dining room.

8. Go bold with a decorative Arts & Craft design

Born out of a backlash to the industrialisation, the Arts and Crafts movement saw designers reaching for inspiration from Tudor and medieval designs – something that is clearly seen in Arts and Crafts traditional fireplace ideas.

'Regularly constructed of brick or locally sourced stone, these were, wherever possible, large and well-rounded with an inglenook appearance. Bricks were often laid vertically, conventionally, or in a herringbone pattern, with later designs including fabulous use of tiles, like those associated with the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Tiles often showed a pastoral scene or complex floral motifs. Rockwood Pottery, who produced the early Arts and Crafts tile designs, shared a close association with William Morris, the founder of Morris & Co,' explains conservation expert Lee Bilson. 

8. Restore rather than replace

If you have an original fireplace, then look to restore rather than replace. ‘An original is a direct link to the era of the building and will have a quality of craftsmanship which is rarely found in reproductions,’ says Chris Wright, owner of P.J. Wright & Sons Fireplace Restoration. ‘Even if it looks beyond repair, seek professional advice as projects that can seem unsalvageable to the untrained eye often aren't, as evidenced by this project.’ Restoration is also more sustainable and likely to be more cost-effective than buying new.

FAQs

During the cold winter months, fireplace ideas for styling this central feature of many rooms and living spaces in a home become high in demand. That’s because the fireplace becomes more of a focal point that creates a cosy feel during this time of year, more any other time.

Traditionally, the fireplace has always been the centrepiece of most living room ideas with the whole living room layout centred around it, as most seating would be arranged to be facing it. That’s why these days, living room TV ideas often involve placing it above a fireplace to ensure the television will be in the centre of the room.

So if you too want to elevate your fireplace and turn it into a showstopping feature of the room, whether that’s with a fresh lick of on-trend paint shade or a well-curated mantelpiece idea, you’ve come to the right place.

Fireplace ideas

‘The fireplace is often the centrepiece of your living space, so it’s important that it complements the overall decor aesthetic of your living space,’ says Lucy Mather, interiors expert at Arighi Bianchi. ‘Whether your current fireplace needs a makeover or you’re looking to install a brand new one, focus on both architectural design and decorative elements to turn it into a stylish decor feature that truly makes a statement.’

And these are our top tips on how to do just that…

1. Surround with panelling

When considering the design of your fireplace, it’s not all just about the mantelpiece or the hearth. The surround matters just as much to the overall look and feel. And one of the best surrounds for a fireplace that’s both elegant and a bit rustic is a wood wall panelling idea.

‘A surround of wood panelling promotes a rustic atmosphere. The right surround can completely transform an ordinary fireplace into a design feature, drawing attention to the fireplace itself while transforming the entire room into a more inviting and visually interesting space,’ Lucy at Arighi Bianchi says.

2. Style the hearth

It’s more common to be thinking about ways to style the mantel of a fireplace and what objects and accessories to place there for a well-curated look. But the hearth should not be forgotten as you can style this area, too, and make it look both warm and cosy with the right items.

‘A carefully curated arrangement of unique decor accessories will elevate the overall effect. Try adding candles and houseplants around the hearth to bring a sense of warmth and natural beauty. Decorative elements - think quirky fire tools or a unique fireplace screen - can further contribute to the overall ambiance, making the fireplace not just functional, but a piece a design feature in its own right,’ Lucy at Arighi Bianchi says.

3. Go for a classic look with white

The colour of your fireplace will ultimately decide the overall look and even style it ends up portraying. And if a fresh and timeless aesthetic is what you’re after then you can’t go wrong by sticking with classic white.

‘Painting can refresh and modernise the look of a fireplace,’ says Tara Rodrigues, interior designer of Tara Rodrigues Interiors. ‘If you opt for white or off-white, it will create a fresh, timeless look.’

Alex Stubbs, Flitch interior stylist, agrees, ‘For a classic look, white or soft greys are timeless options that keep the fireplace understated, letting the texture or surrounding features stand out.’

A white fireplace is particularly fitting for a small living room idea. ‘A white fireplace provides a neutral backdrop that allows other elements of the room to take centre stage and has the added benefit of reflecting light around the area, particularly effective in smaller, darker rooms or spaces with limited natural light,’ Lucy at Arighi Bianchi says.

4. Go dark

If you want to make a dramatic statement with a living room paint idea involving your fireplace, we recommend going dark and bold with your colour choice. And so do the interior experts.

‘If you want to make a bold statement, consider deep blues, rich greens, or even matte black,' says Olga Alexeeva, principal and creative director at interior design studio Black & Milk. 'These darker hues create a striking contrast and add drama, making the fireplace a true centrepiece. Darker tones, such as black or navy, give the fireplace a more dramatic, modern feel, drawing the eye and creating a sense of depth.'

Alex at Flitch agrees, ‘Darker shades like deep navy, charcoal, or even black can make the fireplace feel grander and more dramatic, which is perfect for more contemporary or eclectic spaces.’

5. Bring in some texture

Texture is one of the most important elements in a room, even according to Kelly Hoppen. So don’t miss any opportunity to include some more textures into your lounge – and the fireplace is the perfect chance to introduce a new material into the space.

‘Surrounding the fireplace with rich, timeless materials is another way to enhance its aesthetic,' says Claire Garner, director of Claire Garner Design Studio. Exposed brick can introduce a rustic charm, while built-in shelving, especially in wood or stone, adds both texture and depth.'

Alex at Flitch adds, ‘A fireplace can be the focal point of a room, so enhancing it involves adding elements that draw attention while complementing the room's overall aesthetic. One way to make it stand out is by framing it with striking materials like natural stone or brick. These textures add visual interest and can create a dramatic effect.’

6. Create a cosy atmosphere with colour

If dark and dramatic is not your ideal living room colour scheme, then perhaps cosy and earthy is. And you can extend this colour idea to your fireplace, too – after all, earthy shades are one of the top current living room trends. So why not fully indulge in it?

‘A warm terracotta or muted mustard can add a cosy, inviting feel, perfect for rustic or bohemian spaces. Earth-toned hues add warmth and comfort, making the fireplace feel more welcoming, ideal for living rooms where you want a relaxed ambiance,’ Olga at Black & Milk says.

Alex at Flitch continues, ‘Earthy tones - muted greens, terracotta, or rich browns - are becoming popular for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, especially in cottage or country-style interiors. The choice of colour will influence the overall mood of the room.’

7. Go for a sleek, minimalist design

What can create a contemporary look better than a sleek, minimalist fireplace design? And according to the experts, they are currently enjoying much popularity.

‘Clean lines and minimalist designs are becoming increasingly very popular,’ says Tara Rodrigues, interior designer of Tara Rodrigues Interiors. ‘Sleek, simple mantels and flush-mounted fireplaces that blend seamlessly with the wall are popular at the moment as it creates a flawless elegance.’

Mike Monaghan of Woodstove Fireplace Glass agrees, ‘Modern designs featuring sleek, minimalist fireplaces with clean lines are in high demand, including linear and see-through fireplaces.’

8. Install an electric fireplace

As technology and our habits evolve, so do our homes. That’s why many turn to electric fireplaces instead of traditional ones as they are more eco-friendly, safer and don’t need a chimney to work.

‘There is a growing preference for eco-friendly options, such as electric fireplaces, due to their lower environmental impact compared to traditional wood-burning fireplaces. Electric fireplaces are highly recommended for their safety, ease of use, and efficiency,’ Mike confirms.

Tara suggests going even a step further by opting for a smart fireplace that can be incorporated into your existing smart home ecosystem. ‘Smart Fireplaces are on the increase! Integration with smart home systems allows for remote control and more precise management of the fireplace's functions.’

9. Style it with a complementing artwork

Fireplace decor doesn’t just stop at the mantle - it’s also about what you do with the space surrounding the fireplace, including the space above it. And it makes for the perfect spot for an artwork or an interesting, statement mirror.

‘Placing eye-catching artwork, mirrors or decor items above the mantel can enhance its visual appeal,’ Mike says.

Tara agrees, ‘Styling a fireplace with an artwork that complements the fireplace design can elevate it.’

10. Incorporate accent lighting

Wireless wall sconces are the latest lighting trend - and they would make the perfect addition to your living room wall, placed on either side of the fireplace to further enhance it. But other lighting styles such as spotlights would also work.

‘Incorporating accent lighting, such as sconces or spotlights, can draw attention to the fireplace,’ Tara says.

Mike adds, ‘Installing accent lighting, such as LED strips or spotlights, can highlight the fireplace and make it a focal point.’

11. Install glass doors to retain heat

If you rely on your fireplace to heat up the living room during cold spells, then making sure the heat doesn’t escape is crucial. And one of the best ways to do this is by installing glass doors or a screen.

‘To prevent heat from escaping the room, installing high-quality glass doors on the fireplace can help keep the heat in while the fire is burning,’ Mike suggests.

12. Introduce a touch of luxury with marble

Best suited to townhouses or grander properties, marble living room fireplace ideas were, and still are, favoured for their durability, depth of colour and striking luminosity.

‘Stone fireplace ideas, such as marble, instantly add grandeur to a room, whatever its size,’ explains interior designer Tracy Cole, founder of Hello Flora, who designed this space. ‘If I’m sourcing a new fireplace I look for lots of movement in the stone to add interest and depth to a design. Marble is a luxurious material that really makes a space feel special.’

When it comes to figuring out how to buy a fire and fireplace, it is important to consider durability as well as décor. Marble is resistant to heat and fire, meaning you can light the fire all winter long without worrying about any damage.

13. Refresh an existing fireplace with paint

Before ripping out an existing living room fireplace ideas, try picking up the paintbrush and your favourite paint colours.

‘One of the best living room paint ideas, a painted fire surround is a wonderful way to create interesting design appeal. If your home doesn’t have architectural interest, you can use paint to deliver the impression of details where they are lacking,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. This fireplace is painted in its Sage Green Intelligent Satinwood, primed with its Intelligent primer.

14. Make a statement with an antique fireplace

When it comes to traditional fireplace ideas, antique fireplaces are the way to go. Not only do they imbue a home with authentic character but they also retain their value.

‘When buying an antique, ensure the dealer is reputable and BADA or LAPADA registered. If looking for living room fireplace ideas online, ask for extra photographs so you are fully aware of its condition,’ says Laura Dadswell, director of Westland London. Above is an antique Victorian Corbel fireplace, try Westland London for similar.

15. Embrace the charm of an inglenook

While today the inglenook is a beloved original feature, historically it was a family’s lifeline – it heated their home, cooked their food and dried their clothes. Built from brick or local stone, its large size was designed to make up for its inefficiency but this only had limited impact, and as a result, many homeowners today opt to pair original inglenooks with modern wood-burner ideas, using the remaining space to house fuel.

When looking to restore your living room fireplace ideas, seek professional advice. Specialist fireplace shops are a good starting point – they are hubs of expertise and will also stock essential materials; some even offer renovation services themselves,
or can recommend tradespeople.

16. Create depth with a tiled fireplace design

One of the key characteristics of a Victorian fireplace was the ornate fireplace tiles on its cheeks. This marble fireplace in a Victorian home draws on this trend, having been paired with Victorian-style decorative panels – Artworks Birds and Butterfly, from Original Style. A more minimalist fireplace hearth, tiled in its Victorian floor tiles in the York laying pattern balances the look.

'Tiling around a fireplace is a popular choice as they can withstand heat well and are durable, so make the perfect addition to any fireplace,' says Jon Butterworth, director at Arada. 'Available in various sizes, colours and patterns, they offer homeowners an unparalleled choice of styles and therefore, creativity.'

17. Soften your scheme with a wooden fireplace

Wooden living room fireplace ideas offer a softer look. Modern designs tend to be sleek and minimalist, while traditional ones typically feature ornate carvings.

‘A lot of the carving is of very high quality and the cost is minimal in comparison to marble equivalents,’ says Chris Martin of Lassco. ‘It’s worth noting that many need slips around the firebox to act as a fire-proof barrier to the timber but they also give an opportunity for a decorative flourish.’

18. Source a secondhand fireplace

Why not restore an old fireplace to create a living room fireplace ideas that's unique to you and your home? Keep an eye out on Facebook Marketplace and Freecycle and you might be able to bag one for free, so it'll only cost you time and the price of some paint and DIY tools.

Speaking to Ideal Home, DIY lover and former Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh said she was surprised at how easy this was to do. She bought one from a secondhand flea market and completely restored it, building up the fluting and reshaping some of it, before priming, sanding and repainting it.

'At first, I thought there's no way I'm going to make this look any good, and actually, it wasn't as hard as I thought,' she shares. 'There are so many tutorials online now if you're unsure of how to do things. It's in our main living area because it's a really lovely Victorian high-ceilinged room, but the fireplace they had must have been put in when the original one was taken out and it just didn't give it the credit it deserved.'

19. Make it centre-stage and conceal the TV

A large chimney breast, white abstract artwork and dark paint make a big statement here, and the TV simply disappears. 'Whether you're a TV-over-the-fireplace or art-over-the-fireplace kind of girl, adding a centrepiece with height and visual weight is the best way to create a focal point,' say Jenna and Mariana at Interior Fox.

'Often times we have open recesses on either side of the chimney breast so take every opportunity to use this space by adding built-in shelving or bookcases. A fireplace also needs to be grounded for maximum visual impact so if you don't have a hearth, create one using tiles or stacks of books/plants.'

20. Opt for a textural look

This living room fireplace idea has a gorgeous boho look with loads of natural textures, and it's sure to look radiant and inviting once lit. You've got the painted wood panelled walls, marble, natural wooden candle stands, the stone of the Buddha, ceramic jars and a beaded light fitting. All of these tactile materials have been skillfully layered on top of what may have been a fairly plain and ordinary marble fireplace and hearth.

21. Add a touch of royalcore

Elevate your living room fireplace ideas by taking inspiration from Bridgerton-inspired v. Pale blue walls, gold-framed mirrors and artwork, DIY wall panelling ideas and a mix of old and new in terms of furniture and soft furnishings will take a fireplace to a new level.

22. Fake it with a facing and accent colour

If you don't have a fireplace, you could purchase a facing, at Screwfix or B&Q and distract with a bold accent colour. As shown above, with some bright colour on the walls, fairy lights, artwork and candles, you can make the impression of a fireplace without an actual roaring fire.

This is an affordable way to create a faux fireplace, costing around £200. It's a relatively easy way to improve the flow of the room when designing a living room. And it offers lots of opportunities for styling/faffing with the mantlepiece as the seasons change.

23. Play with geometric tiles

Bring personality and a chic Parisian cafe style with some monochrome tiles like these from Walls and Floors. They've got a subtle matte finish and can be arranged in various ways, be it checkerboard or your own unique pattern.

24. Embrace symmetry

If you want your living room to be a calming place to unwind, think about symmetry when coming up with living room fireplace ideas. Arrange wood either side of the fireplace in neat columns, cluster candles and arrange plants and artwork so there's a feeling of balance that's easy on the eye.

'To make a stylish feature out of your fireplace, it's important to focus on creating a sense of balance and harmony within the space. Start by considering symmetry, which can instantly elevate the look of the fireplace. Installing bespoke cabinetry or shelving on either side can provide structure and visual balance, while also offering practical storage or display space for books, artwork, or decorative objects,' Claire at Claire Garner Design Studio says.

25. Get colour blocking

Colour lovers, don't neglect your living room fireplace ideas! It's a prime opportunity to inject some fun colour, and we're loving the combination of bright green, yellow and pink here, tied together with a geometric rug. A fresh lick of paint is always a winner if you want to shake things up without spending too much money.

26. Arrange furniture to embrace the fire

Rearranging your furniture so that key pieces are angled towards the fire is a way to make your fire demand attention, without spending any money. 'Arrange your furniture so it embraces the fireplace rather than avoiding it,’ says Sally Denning, interiors stylist of @Blackshorestyle. You don't have to totally compromise your view of the TV but a few small tweaks, and shuffling sofa legs a little will help make sure the fireplace stands out.

27. Style a mantel like a pro

'Symmetrical mantels – with say, an identical lamp at each end – can feel very formal,' comments interior designer Nicki Bamford-Bowes. 'Great in certain spaces and situations such as a dining room or a grand hallway. However, to create a more relaxed vibe in spaces such as a lounge, I prefer a more informal, asymmetrical mantel.'

Whether offering a place for your wine glass at a party to perching a family portrait, the mantel itself has long reflected each era of design. Use a bare mantel to display your favourite objects – a sure fire (get it?!) way to cheer you up on a dull, dreary day.

Select specific items to make more of a statement – oversized letters to spell out kid’s names looks great, or play around with arranging vases, artwork, seasonal foliage, and plenty of candles for ambient light, which is essential for achieving cosy living room ideas.

28. Make a feature of a chimney breast wall

‘Try painting the fireplace in a contrasting colour to walls, wallpapering all walls or alcoves except the chimney breast,' suggests Ruth at Little Greene. 'Or opting for floor-to-ceiling colour, enveloping the fire surround and chimney breast just leaving the dark fireplace or decorative tiles to become a room’s feature highlight.’

29. Keep it simple

‘An inset stove gives the illusion of a “window of fire”,’ says Declan Kingsley-Walsh, managing director at Morsø UK. 'So keep things minimal to let the fire remain centre stage.' This style of living room fireplace ideas works in just about any space, contemporary or traditional, as it just depends on how you dress it. It's a great option for small living room ideas, too, because it doesn't overly distract the eye and take over the space.

When designing your stove, also consider incorporating log storage ideas, as seen here.

30. Make it contemporary cool

In a contemporary layout embrace the freedom to upsize. Make a big impact, quite literally, with an oversized fireplace design within your modern living room ideas.

‘Glass panels on stoves are now bigger and wider, so you can really enjoy the beauty of a log fire, compared to more trad designs,’ says Declan from Morso.

‘Stoves can be placed almost anywhere as long as the requirements of the stove are met and there’s a flue, which means focal points are moving away from the traditional fireplace.’

31. Frame with wallpaper

Draw attention to the fire within the living room fireplace ideas by framing the surround with a decorative paper. ‘Adding living room wallpaper ideas to the chimney breast in an otherwise muted scheme highlights it and create an element of surprise,' suggests Ruth from Little Greene.

32. Make over an original fireplace

With the right materials you can upcycle anything and design a living room to perfection. ‘Most fireplaces are made from varnished wood, cast iron, tiles or stone, so if you are looking to paint it – and a contrasting colour always helps highlight this architectural feature – then use a coat of an all-surface primer,' advises Ruth from Little Greene.

'If you have a highly sculptural or cast-iron fireplace, then paint the walls and the fireplace itself the same colour – this reduces the powerful nature of the ironwork or shape but allows the detail to show through by the highlights and shadows that are displayed as light falls on it.’

33. Don't overpower the wood-burner

‘For a contemporary stove, try to keep the area around minimal with a neutral palette,' says Declan from Morso. 'This allows the stove’s warm, dancing flames to be the focal point. For more traditional stoves, expose the original brick or go for decorative tiles to create a warm, homely look for rustic living room ideas.'

34. Choose a contrasting frame

Not sure what to do with that tired old wooden surround on your living room fireplace ideas? If you are feeling brave, painting it a bright colour will make it sing. Try to pick out your chosen colour in accents such as cushions and rugs, and smaller pieces of upcycled furniture for a more cohesive look.

Think carefully about your colour choice. If you have a cool neutral like grey on the walls, pick a strong sunshine yellow, teal blue or fuchsia pink. If you are working with a warmer neutral, try an on-trend brick or terracotta red, a sage or olive green or even plum.

35. Go grey all over

One way to make a fireplace feel less old fashioned or obtrusive is to paint it in an on-trend, colour, and to also us that colour on the wall behind. This cocooning grey living room idea is on trend, and makes this mantel feel smart. It's also light enough that you don't lose the fine details of any carved details.

36. Make sure it's to scale

This is important if you are choosing a replacement mantelpiece, or installing a new fireplace where one didn't previously exist. 'If you have lots of space and high ceilings, you may wish to opt for a tall fireplace with an overhanging mantel, an ornate overmantel and a wide hearth extension,' advises Owen from Renaissance London.

'If your space is smaller, such as in a bathroom or guest bedroom, you may wish to opt for something more flush to the wall. Focus the detail on ornate jambs or tiles around the grate.'

Mike at Woodstove Fireplace Glass adds, 'Generally, the fireplace should be about one-third to two-thirds the width of the wall it’s on.'

37. Turn a chimney breast into a home office

Here's a very smart solution for a defunct fireplace – turn it into a desk or dressing table. Deeper wardrobes sit in the alcoves created by the flue, while attaching a shelf to the chimney breast makes an instant workspace or beauty bar. And the hearth becomes a place to tuck in a stool – it's the home office you've always wanted, but takes up barely any space.

38. Use reclaimed wood

A big open hearth and flue might look authentic, but they are also rather impractical. In country living room ideas, consider sealing off the flue so there are no draughts, and instead using an efficient wood burner as they do a far better job of emitting heat directly into the room that an open fire wood.

A simple reclaimed beam is a rustic alternative to a traditional mantelpiece, while still nodding to the age of the house.

39. Fake it in a new build

Though it's not true of all new builds, some can feel a little bereft of features. So if you are looking for a focal point to replace the TV, a fireplace surround like this one could be the retro-fit solution you've been looking for. It will fit against a flat wall for an instant feature, and you can add your choice of electric stove or hearth to complete the look.

40. Match your fireplace to your walls

Fireplaces can sometimes stand out for all the wrong reasons. So if you want yours to blend in, paint it to match the walls around it. This is particularly effective if you go for a deep colour rather than a pale neutral. Pick out the tone in soft furnishings but make sure there's enough 'light' to contrast with the shad to avoid overkill.

41. Work in a wood-burner

Fireplace alcove not in use? Install a log burning stove. It will create wonderfully cosy centrepiece and will heat the whole area. Be sure to enlist the help of a trained contractor who will make sure the structure is safe and built to the latest regulations.

The results as seen here in this quaint country living room are stunning and can be enjoyed from all angles of the room. ‘Whether your living room is big or small, a wood-burning stove always makes it cosy,' says Declan from Morso.

Jon at Arada continues on the benefits of wood burning stoves, 'Wood burning and multi fuel stoves differ from an open fire because they offer a far better fuel efficiency and longer burn time from the same amount of fuel. A stove is also better for public health and the environment than an open fire because it can reburn any particles that could be emitted. Stoves are also easier to control and they can be shut down before retiring to bed.'

42. Add a different light source

An exposed brick chimney breast is a popular decorative fireplace style right now. It demands attention, adds texture and lends itself well to not only rustic but modern schemes as it gives a nod to the industrial trend.

It particularly looks the part in this relaxed living room as creates a focal point and balances the eclectic scheme. If your fireplace is not in use, light up the hearth with a quirky novelty LED letter light as an extra highlight.

You can find these on Etsy, in specialist lighting stores and you might be able to use home decor discount codes on high street options, too.

43. Adorn with foraged foliage

Give those Sunday afternoon walks extra purpose by taking the opportunity to forage in the hedgerows for pretty foliage to adorn your fireplace. Slip your secateurs in your pocket and be on the look-out for ivy, rose hips, eucalyptus, yew and box cuttings. As well as looking pretty, they'll double as kindling.

The time honoured and traditional fireplace was once a necessity to heat a room, but in today's world they can be seen as more of a comforting indulgence and delight. From artificial gas and electric fires to rustic wood burners and roaring open inglenooks, there is certainly a style and type to suit every style of living room, bedroom, kitchen or even bathroom.

'Incorporating seasonal decor, such as fresh foliage or greenery, keeps the look fresh and visually appealing throughout the year,' Claire at Claire Garner Design Studio says.

FAQs

How do you arrange a living room with a fireplace in the middle?

'Try to position your seating in a way that surrounds the hearth, whilst still angled towards the TV,' says Sam Hood, co-founder and chief creative officer at AMARA. 'This will give you the best of both worlds, embracing both the modern and traditional focal points.'

Should I buy a restored fireplace or reproduction fireplace?

A beautiful fireplace might be a must-have now, but it's a sad fact that in the 1970s and 1980s, homeowners couldn't rip them out fast enough. That's left many older homes lacking their original living room fireplace ideas. So if you want to reinstate them, is it best to seek out an old fireplace, salvaged from a property of a similar age, or to buy new?

'Restoration can be a hugely gratifying and challenging process, from sourcing to installation, but the result is a true piece of history amongst the fabric of your home,' says Owen from Renaissance London. 'Alternatively, specifying a reproduction fireplace gives you the freedom to create something entirely new. It can be made to look old while incorporating all the detail and personalisation you could wish for.'

What are safe fireplace practices?

The most important safe fireplace practice is to ensure that you have both carbon monoxide and smoke alarms installed in your home. Test them regularly.

If you have young children or pets, a fireguard can be a valuable addition and will prevent anyone from getting too close.

Have the chimney swept at least twice a year when burning wood or coal, and at least once a year when burning smokeless fuels, to reduce the risk of uncontained or chimney fires. The sweeps will also check the chimney’s lining and clear any build-ups that could potentially ignite. The National Association for Chimney Sweeps (nacs.org.uk) will have a list of professionals in your area.

Following these tips, you can be sure that your living room fireplace is safe, efficient and also stylish.

Before TVs were ever a thing, let alone a mainstay in most living rooms, people’s lounges used to be anchored by a fireplace, with most furniture arranged and orientated towards this living room feature. And it still applies to living spaces today, including those on the smaller side. But if you’re after some small living room fireplace ideas to get some inspo, you’ve come to the right place.

Just like with most features and pieces you incorporate into your small living room ideas, a fireplace used in your compact lounge needs to be carefully chosen, styled and decorated so that it enhances your living room’s best features rather than overwhelming it.

‘A fireplace doesn’t just provide heat during the colder months, it serves as a natural focal point and creates a welcoming and inviting space for socialising and relaxation,’ says Rachal Hutcheson, national retail manager at Sharps. ‘There are logistics to consider when introducing a fireplace into the living room and there can be further challenges when space is limited.’

Small living room fireplace ideas

When it comes to fireplace ideas, the overarching advice is to let it be a statement feature and the focal point of the living room, even if it is a tiny living room.

‘Use the fireplace as the anchor of your design and build around it with complementary tones and textures,’ says Oli Webb, director at Cullifords.

Jo Lane, founder of See Your Place, continues, ‘The fireplace should be the heart and soul of any space - the area where people literally and metaphorically gather to feel warm and connected - so it needs to feel grounded and substantial, even in a smaller space.’

But here are some more detailed tips and pro-recommended tricks…

1. Opt for a regular-sized fireplace

Going for a regular-sized fireplace doesn’t necessarily sound like a piece of advice with that much substance, and yet, it is. When working with a small space, your natural instinct might be to incorporate pieces that are smaller than those you’d put in a regular-sized space. But that only reinforces the compact look. So one of the key small living room design rules is to go for regular-sized pieces instead.

‘In my opinion, a small living room works best with a normal sized fireplace. Undersized pieces in a small room can counter-intuitively make the room feel smaller. This is because your eye is already spatially aware of the dimensions of the room and won't be tricked, so adding smaller pieces in the hope of it feeling 'proportionate' can just end up feeling a bit pinched,’ Jo at See Your Place says.

2. Got for a marble or stone surround

When you’re choosing the style of the fireplace for your small living room, it’s best to stick to timeless, classic designs. And what’s more timeless than a marble fireplace?

‘A simple, elegant stone surround - such as marble or quartzite - can add natural texture and warmth without overwhelming the room. Let the materials speak for themselves and keep the surrounding decor minimal to enhance the sense of space,’ Oli at Cullifords says.

3. Create an integrated design

One of the best ways to effectively use the little space you have in your small living room - albeit not the cheapest one - is to go for built-in solutions. But if you choose to go down that road, you can also incorporate an integrated fireplace.

‘An integrated design that also incorporates shelving or built-in storage around the fireplace, provides a practical place to display books, decor or media systems. This combination of function and form maximises every inch, turning a single wall into a beautifully organised feature that enhances both comfort and style in a compact living space,’ Rachal at Sharps says.

4. Blend it in with the wall with colour drenching

The trend of colour drenching, covering the whole room in a single colour, is perfect for small living room colour schemes. And incorporating the fireplace into the overall design, blending it into the wall is the perfect way to make sure this room feature doesn’t overpower the rest of the space.

‘To make it blend in, choose the same colour as the walls to create a colour drenching effect,’ says Jimmy Englezos, senior brand manager from Ronseal. ‘This will create a monochrome look which blends the fireplace seamlessly into its surroundings. Whatever colour you choose, make sure to use a high-heat paint that can easily withstand the high temperatures.’

Mandy Rippon, product manager at Frenchic Paint, agrees, ‘If your fireplace really dominates the room, you can paint it the same colour as the walls to reduce its impact.’

5. Pick a minimalist design

‘Opt for a minimalist design as choosing a sleek, minimalist fireplace to avoid overwhelming the space,’ says Mike Monaghan, owner of Woodstove Fireplace Glass. ‘Clean lines and simple designs help maintain an open feel.’

As much as we love ornamental and decorative fireplace designs, these can look a bit too busy in a small space (sorry, maximalists!). Instead, going for a more simplistic style can be the perfect modern fireplace idea.

6. Go for light, neutral colours

It probably doesn’t come as a surprise anymore that light colours have a tendency to visually expand spaces. And painting a fireplace in your small living room a light, neutral colour will have the same effect on the surrounding space.

‘When painting a fireplace in a small living room, we suggest choosing light and neutral colours that reflect natural light effectively,’ says Amy Holton, head of creative at Lucie Annabel. ‘Opting for lighter hues and neutrals are great options to brighten up a smaller space and create the illusion of a larger room.’

Mike adds, ‘Use a light and neutral colour palette to make the room feel larger. Incorporate pops of colour through accessories and textiles to add warmth and personality.’

7. Choose a small fireplace design

You don’t necessarily have to stick with the existing fireplace in your living room, unless of course you’re under budget constraints or you’re renting. But if that’s not the case and the fireplace you have is too large for your space, then you can replace it with a smaller design.

‘It is possible to find a good selection of small fireplaces that look just as good, no matter what your room size,’ says Joanna Humphreys, fire and stove specialist at Direct Fireplaces. ‘Typically, standard size fireplaces tend to be between 55.5 and 60 inches in width. You could be thinking this is far too big to fit comfortably inside your small room without it dominating the space. The good news is that you can also find small fireplaces and surrounds in compact designs that are as narrow as 40 inches in width – this could shave almost 2 feet in space required for your fireplace.’

8. Make your fireplace ‘pop’ with colour

Draw attention to shapely small living room fireplace ideas surrounds by painting in a bold standout colour. Adding a shot of sunny yellow will give a cool, neutral scheme some warmth. It also makes sure the fireplace is the focal point of the room, rather than small living room TV ideas.

Using a pale colour on walls, teamed with light-coloured furnishings and soft tones helps create a sense of space in a compact living room, where the background colours don’t fight for attention. Balance a yellow fireplace with just a few extra accents of yellow here and there.

9. Swap the fireplace for a neat wood burner

A chimney breast wall can eat into a room’s footprint and take up valuable space, as well as being restrictive in terms of layout. Consider when planning where furniture such as sofa ideas for small living rooms will be placed. You could replace a traditional fireplace for a neat, wood-burning stove that can be positioned in a more suitable spot. Stoves can be placed pretty much anywhere in a room as long as there’s a flue and all safety requirements are met.

Make your stove and flue a focal point by painting the wall behind in a bold, contrast colour. Consider a raised hearth area instead of a traditional fireplace, which can be styled-up with decorative bits and bobs and come in handy for log storage too. It will need to be topped with a heat-proof tile or slab, but can be painted to match the wall for a sleek look.

10. Go rustic with a timber mantel

Replace a bulky fire surround with a rustic-style timber mantel. Using reclaimed wood or an old timber beam will add bags of character to a living room and create a fabulous small living room fireplace ideas that will take up less space than a traditional option.

With space on top that can be styled with favourite ornaments or seasonal foliage, a timber mantel like this one is secured in place with hidden fittings, much like a floating shelf. While a reclaimed timber mantel sits perfectly in a country-style scheme, sleek polished wood mantels are also an option that would suit modern small living room ideas.

11. Stretch the space with a visual trick

Make a small living room fireplace ideas surround blend in with the backdrop by painting it the same colour as the wall. Wood wall panelling ideas covering an entire wall will give a living room a relaxed, country-style vibe. And adding a shelf that spans the width of the wall will add extra storage and display space that can be jollied up with pictures, ceramics and pretty floral displays.

Make a small space feel bigger by painting the wall in a half-and-half colour treatment. Having a darker paint colour on the bottom section of wall helps to ground the room and provides a contrast backdrop for furniture and colourful soft furnishings. A lighter colour on the top section of wall and ceiling helps to create a sense of height and make a small room feel more lofty.

12. Put a wood burning stove in the fireplace

While you certainly can completely swap out the entire fireplace for a wood burner, you could also install the stove inside the fireplace.

‘There are plenty of compact stoves on the market today that would fit well into smaller fireplaces and rooms,’ says Phil Wood, country manager for the UK and Ireland at Contura. ‘Replacing an open fireplace with a closed wood burner will significantly improve both indoor and outdoor air quality. This will be particularly beneficial in a smaller living room, where air circulation is likely to be more limited compared to larger equivalents.’

‘Wood burning stoves are far more efficient than open fireplaces. Firstly, because heat transfer is convected into the room rather than being lost up the chimney – as is the case of conventional open fireplaces – making a wood burner 60% more efficient at heating the room. Secondly, a log burner will use less wood, meaning it is cheaper to run and leads to a better fuel economy,’ he concludes.

And it’s also a great Scandi decorating idea if you ask us.

13. Opt for floor-to-ceiling tiles

While paint or wallpaper is often the covering of choice for a chimney breast wall, tiling the area instead offers the chance to create a stunning focal point living room feature wall idea. Floor-to-ceiling tiles will also draw the eye upwards and is a clever way of creating a sense of height in a small or poky living room.

Choose a standout colour to add the wow-factor to your tiling and opt for Moroccan-style Zellige tiles to create a rustic, rough-and-ready look around your small living room fireplace ideas. Their irregular shape and glaze imperfections gives more of a handcrafted flavour, rather than the uniform look created using standard ceramic tiles.

14. Add country charm with panelling

Dispensing with a fireplace and slotting in a neat wood burner idea is a great way of freeing up some extra space in a small living room. But instead of leaving the surrounding wall space empty, try a rustic-look cover-up that will bring bags of country charm.

Cladding the chimney breast wall with timber panelling is a lovely way of giving a small space a decorative focal point and is a clever way of covering up less-than-perfect plaster or brickwork.

Painting the panelling a dusky shade will help to frame a freestanding stove and adding a simple shelf will create an area for display. Consider contrast patterned wallpaper in adjoining alcoves to really pretty up the space.

15. Make the space shine

Increase the feeling of space in a small living room by hanging a large living room mirror idea above the fireplace. Mirrors help to bounce light around a room and teamed with pale wall colours and muted soft furnishings, can help to boost natural light levels and make a small room feel lighter, brighter and more spacious.

Avoid positioning a mirror too high above small living room fireplace ideas, so that it doesn’t end up reflecting the ceiling, a bare wall or doorway and losing its aesthetic appeal. Try hanging it just a few inches or so above the mantel, high enough so that you can see yourself in it properly, but low enough so that it will reflect back any decorative pieces displayed along the mantel.

16. Use the mantel for display

Whether you have a fabulous fireplace that you want to celebrate, or one that’s less-than-lovely that you’d prefer to disguise, a mantel is a prime spot for a styled-up display area which can become a focal point in its own right.

Create a more considered display by taking the colour theme, room decor and style of your small living room fireplace ideas into account when choosing your display pieces. Then go for a mix of items in different shapes, sizes and colours to create variation. Look at living room shelving ideas for display inspiration.

Start with taller items at the back, working your way along the mantel and layering pieces, with smaller items at the front. Try propping pictures against the wall or placing short items on a stack of books to add height. Create mini vignettes here and there, placing similar items together in groups of three or five (odd numbers work better than even) and remembering to leave a little free space to give your display room to breathe.

17. Go for space-saving ‘built-ins’

Making use of alcove ideas either side of a fireplace can be a handy space-saver in a small living room. But while useful for media storage and bookshelves, fireside alcoves do tend to be non-standard widths and heights, so it can be tricky finding off-the-peg furniture to fit.

Having storage built to slot in is a way around the problem, with a carpenter able to build bespoke cabinets and open shelving to fit the space exactly. For a less-pricey option, try designing your own made-to-measure furniture via companies like Jali, who will create customised mdf furniture that is then assembled and DIY fitted at home.

18. Blend in an unused fireplace

If you have a non-working fireplace idea or an empty hearth that looks bare and dark out of season, there are plenty of ways that you can jolly-up the space and make it feel more homely year round.

Try faking it, by filling an empty hearth with a stack of logs to add a rustic country vibe. Add a splash of colour by painting the cut ends of logs here and there - use tester pots of paint to use up any leftovers.

Alternatively, fill an empty hearth with a display of flowers or greenery. Use a selection of vases or planters in different shapes and heights, positioning taller foliage at the back to fill the space. Using a selection of pillar candles in assorted heights is another lovely way of filling an empty hearth and they can be lit at night time to create a cosy glow.

FAQ

Where do you put a TV in a small living room with a fireplace?

‘One of the big problems is that most people tend to have two very different focal points in a living room – the fireplace and the TV,’ says Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, designer and TV presenter. ‘And somehow we want to accommodate both within the same axis.’

Opinions are divided when it comes to whether a TV should take centre stage or you should hide a TV. One option that is popular with wide-screens is to position the TV centrally above a fireplace, for optimum viewing pleasure. Choosing a TV size that is in scale with the small living room fireplace ideas underneath is a way of creating a more balanced look. And although many are against having a TV in such a central spot, positioning it above the fireplace means that there aren’t two competing focal points.

Alternatively, if space is tight, positioning the TV in a corner spot is another option that works well and isn’t as ‘in your face’ as mounting it centrally above a fireplace. Consider placing the TV on a media unit slotted into a fireside alcove, or alternatively mounting it on the wall via a bracket.

See? There is so much creativity and so much fun to be had when coming up with these small space solutions and then realising them. Enjoy!