What is the best tile for a fireplace?

The best tiles for your fireplace are porcelain. For around the hearth, choose a glazed porcelain tile because it’s dense and more durable. The smooth surface is also easier to clean, which keeps your fireplace looking nice.

Can you retile over the existing fireplace tile?

Technically, yes, you can retile over existing tile. The average homeowner can successfully accomplish this DIY project. However, adding tile over tile will increase the weight of the fireplace. It’s also not the technically correct way of doing things. Consider adding tile over tile if you are doing the project yourself or have a limited budget.

Can you use peel and stick tiles on a fireplace?

You can’t use just any peel and stick tile around your fireplace. There’s excessive moisture and heat around your fireplace. Standard peel and stick tiles are not durable enough to last. Instead, look for humidity and heat-resistant tiles. These will have a stronger adhesive that will prevent the tiles from peeling off the wall, mantle, and surround.

10 Fireplace Tile Design Ideas

“For me, there’s nothing better than curling up in my favorite blanket on a cloudy or rainy day and just knit. Especially in front of the fireplace.” – Magdalena Neuner

What does your fireplace look like? Adding tile can transform the look of your fireplace without a major renovation. If your fireplace looks outdated or could use a refresh, then it’s time for a fireplace makeover.

A tile fireplace can look traditional, contemporary, modern, minimalist, vintage, luxurious, or any other interior design theme. It all depends on the color, size, shape, and style of the tile that you choose. These fireplace tile ideas will inspire you to use tile for your fireplace update.

1. Choose Glossy Blue Ceramic for Vibrant Fireplaces

Blue ceramic tiles, especially with a glossy finish, bring a vibrant and refreshing touch to any fireplace. This choice radiates a cool and serene ambiance, making it ideal for living spaces that aim for a calm and collected aesthetic. The reflective surface of the glossy tiles adds a dynamic visual element, catching light and creating an inviting focal point in the room.

Decorative beveled tiles — Source: @griffinantique via Instagram

2. Embrace Exotic Elegance with Moroccan Patterns

Moroccan tile patterns are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, making them a bold statement for fireplaces. These tiles often feature geometric patterns and vivid hues that infuse a touch of exotic charm. Perfect for adding a focal point in minimalist or neutral spaces, they offer a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary style.

Moroccan tiled fireplace against white wall

Decorative Moroccan tiles — Source: @sand666 via Instagram

3. Get Rustic Charm with Brick-Look Tile

Brick-look tiles offer the rustic charm of real bricks with the added benefits of tile. They are ideal for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of traditional hearths. These tiles are available in various colors and textures, allowing for customization to match different interior designs. They’re a great choice for those wanting a classic look with modern convenience.

Brick tiles — Source: @chelsealynnsullivan via Instagram

Subway brick tiles — Source: @erinkentinteriors via Instagram

4. Upgrade to Sleek Porcelain for Modern Appeal

Porcelain tiles, known for their sleek and modern appearance, are an excellent choice for contemporary fireplace designs. Their smooth surface and uniform color provide a clean and minimalistic look. These tiles are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly durable and easy to maintain, making them a practical choice for high-heat areas.

5. Inject Energy with Chartreuse Green Tiles

Chartreuse green tiles are a bold and unconventional choice, perfect for adding a splash of personality and color to a room. This vibrant hue can energize a space and works well with both light and dark decor themes. When used around a fireplace, these tiles can become a stunning centerpiece, especially in artistic or eclectic interiors.

6. Opt for Cream Tiles for Understated Elegance

Cream or beige fireplace tiles offer a soft, warm, and versatile option for various interior styles. These neutral-colored tiles can create a subtle, elegant backdrop for fireplaces, complementing both traditional and contemporary decors. They are ideal for those seeking a soothing and understated elegance in their living space.

7. Go Geometric with Hexagonal Tile Designs

Hexagonal tiles add a geometric and modern twist to fireplace surrounds. Their unique shape offers a break from traditional square or rectangular tiles, providing an opportunity to create a visually intriguing pattern. Available in a range of colors and finishes, hexagonal tiles can be arranged in various layouts to suit individual style preferences.

8. Warm Up with Cozy Square Brown Tiles

Square brown tiles exude a natural and earthy vibe, ideal for creating a cozy and welcoming fireplace area. Their conventional shape and neutral color make them easy to blend with various design themes, from rustic to modern. These tiles can also add a sense of warmth and stability to a room’s decor.

9. Evoke Nature with Natural Stone Tile

Natural stone tiles bring an organic and rugged beauty to fireplace designs. Each tile is unique, with its own pattern and texture, adding character and depth to the fireplace. These tiles are durable and heat-resistant, making them not only a visually appealing choice but also a functional one for a fireplace setting.

10. Flaunt Style with Floral Geometric Tiles

Floral geometric tiles combine the elegance of floral patterns with the sharpness of geometric shapes, creating a sophisticated and visually captivating design. This blend is perfect for adding both a touch of nature and a modern artistic twist to the fireplace area. These tiles work well in spaces that aim to balance traditional charm with contemporary flair.