Surrounds

Fireplace Surrounds That Do the Job and Look the Part

There’s something about a fire that draws you in. It’s the warmth. It's the flickering light. But more than that, it’s how it looks.

That’s where your fireplace surround comes in. Pick the right one, and it makes the room. Pick the wrong one, and it all looks off.

This isn’t about showing off. It’s about getting something that works.

Hardworking materials. Good lines. Terrific value for money.

Let’s look at your options.

Cast Iron Fireplace Surrounds

Tough. Bold. Solid.

Cast iron surrounds have a weight to them – both in build and appearance.

They’ve been used in British homes for over a century and still hold their own.

You’ll often see them with Victorian or Edwardian fireplaces, though modern designs exist too.

Their dark, textured surface works with tiled inserts or plain back panels. You can leave the finish bare or polish it for more shine. Either way, you get presence.

Cast iron is a good choice for period homes, but don’t be fooled—if the setting is right, it can look just as good in a modern room.

Be aware: they’re heavy. And once they’re in, they’re staying put. So, if you’re after something light and flexible, this won’t suit.

But if you want a centrepiece that means business – this is it.

Granite Fireplace Surrounds

Granite is all about strength.

It feels cool to the touch and heavy in the hand. Once it’s in place, it stays looking good without any work or fuss.

You won’t get wild colours here. Granite surrounds tend to come in blacks, greys and soft speckled tones. That’s the appeal.

They don’t shout. They sit quietly and let the fire do the talking. They’re perfect for modern interiors, especially with gas or electric fires.

Straight lines, no mess, no extra detail.

Maintenance? Simple. Wipe clean. No polish needed. Just don’t use anything acidic, or it can mark the surface.

If you want a sleek, grounded look that lasts for years, you can't beat granite.

Marble Fireplace Surrounds

You know it when you see it. That subtle pattern running through the surface. The soft shine. The weight. Marble surrounds carry a certain calm.

A white or cream marble fireplace surround brightens a space. It reflects natural light and firelight, making the space feel bigger and more open. Grey or beige feels warmer. It suits both modern and classic interiors – it just depends on the cut.

Serpentine edges, flat arches, square corners – the style you choose depends on your preferences. Marble gives a smooth, refined look that works in both classic and modern interiors.

So, if you want a clean, polished look, marble will look stunning.

Stone Fireplace Surrounds

Natural. Uneven. Strong.

Stone fireplace surrounds bring a different feel to a room. They’re not shiny. They’re not perfect. And that’s what makes them work.

Limestone, sandstone, travertine – each type has its own grain, tone and texture. You can go light or earthy, smooth or rustic.

Stone feels genuine. It suits a cottage just as much as a modern barn-style space.

If you’re fitting a wood burner, stone works well. It can handle the heat and doesn’t try to be too clever.

But remember – it’s porous. It can mark with soot and smoke if left unsealed. You’ll want to use a suitable cleaner and maybe reseal it occasionally.

Stone is hard to beat for something that looks like it belongs.

Wooden Fireplace Surrounds

Warm. Classic. Adaptable.

Wooden fireplace surrounds are the most flexible option. You can stain them, paint them, carve them or keep them plain.

Oak is a favourite – it’s tough and looks better with age. Pine is cheaper, lighter, and works well if you’re painting.

Wood feels cosy. It softens the look of a room with natural textures and colours. Match it with a tiled or cast iron insert and you’ve got a traditional look. Pair it with a modern fire and it still fits.

Wood works well in almost any room style and is a practical solution for heat retention and easy maintenance.

It’s simple to fit, easy to update, and doesn’t take over the space.

Which Fire Surround Should You Pick?

That depends on what matters to you.

• Want something bold? Go for cast iron.
• Like clean, dark lines? Granite.
• Prefer something polished and light? Marble.
• After a raw, natural finish? Stone.
• Need warmth and flexibility? Wood.

Think about the rest of the room. The size of the space. How often you’ll use the fire. And how much time you want to spend keeping it clean.

Whatever you go with, get one that suits your life – not just your taste. Because when the fire’s on, and you’re sitting back, you won’t care about trends. You’ll care that it looks right. And feels right.

And that’s the test that matters!