Great Walls of Fire

Snow, rain, ice and sleet – the Garden State is a bit of a mess today. Yes, winter continues to make its presence known and, unless you’re set to wing away to somewhere tropical (in which case, take me, take me!), all you can do is go with it: lean in and embrace the best things about the colder months. For me, that’s cozying up in front of the fireplace, luxuriating in the warmth that radiates—literally and figuratively—from it. Fireplaces come in all shapes, sizes and styles; but whatever form they take, they beckon us to draw near and relax.

Classic brick is a timeless choice in a traditional space.

Photo: Marco Ricca, Design NJ December 2016/January 2017 Interior Design: Betsy Berner,  Floral designs and greenery: Nancy Burton and Eileen Ricco-Bauer

A wall of stone (and a canine friend) creates a rustic retreat.

Photo: Patricia Burke, Design NJ October/November 2017 Design: Laurie Burke-Boice

No mantel? No problem. This fireplace is sleek and simple, projecting into the space without encumbering it.

Photo: Marisa Pellegrini, Design NJ February/March 2018 Interior Designer: Richard Scuderi

A large swath of zebrawood veneer is a showstopper in this room.

Photo: Peter Rymwid, Design NJ December 2016/January 2017 Designer: Kingsley Belcher Knauss

This fireplace may not be centered on the wall, but the furniture is positioned to make the hearth the center of attention.

Photo: David Gruol, Design NJ August/September 2018 Interior design: Sarah Bishop Architecture: Thomas Baio

This fireplace surround mimics the calm neutrals of the walls and trim, making the fire itself the focus.

Photo: John Ferrentino, Design NJ February/March 2016 Design: Tracey Butler

A wide, narrow fireplace reflects and complements the linear qualities of this space.

Photo: Stephen Govel, Design NJ June/July 2018 Builder: Monetti Custom Homes/Architect: Tirmizi Campbell