HOT OFF THE PRESS: The Spruce

Common Fireplace Styling Mistakes to Avoid

1. Items That Don’t Match the Architectural Proportions

One frequent misstep is choosing decor that doesn’t relate to the size and scale of the fireplace opening. Placing small or frail pieces — like thin taper candles or delicate faux plants — can make a generous hearth look empty or unfinished. A well-scaled styling choice helps your fireplace feel intentional and anchored in the room’s overall design.

2. Sticky or Dust-Collecting Objects

Glass lanterns, intricate cut-glass decor, and overly ornate objects can attract dust and soot, leading to surfaces that look dull or neglected over time. Instead, choose objects that can handle exposure to ambient dust and visually add texture without constant upkeep.

3. Overly Themed or Seasonal Decorations

Holiday ornaments and gimmicky seasonal items might feel fun temporarily, but if overused, they can make a space look cluttered or disconnected from your year-round interior style. The key is to let your fireplace complement your home’s permanent aesthetic, not fight with it.

4. Filling the Hearth with Random Objects

A tempting trend is to fill a non-functioning fireplace with decorative logs or oversized objects sourced from big box retailers. But meaningless clutter rarely enhances a space. Instead, designers recommend curated pieces that add meaning and balance — such as a substantial ceramic vessel, sculptural wood bundles, or minimalist fire tools.

Interior Design & Fireplace Safety: What Else to Consider

While style matters, safety always comes first — especially with fireplaces designed to burn real wood or use other fuel sources. Here are a few critical safety considerations to pair with thoughtful design:

🔥 Keep Combustibles Away from Open Flames

Maintain at least 3 feet of clearance between any flammable objects (furniture, decor, rugs) and your active fireplace to reduce fire risk. Fire officials consistently advise this to keep heat, embers, and sparks from reaching nearby items.

🔥 Don’t Burn Unsafe Materials

Avoid burning treated or painted wood, plastics, wrapping paper, cardboard, or accelerants like lighter fluid. These items may emit toxic fumes or damage your chimney and flue — even long after the flames die down.

🔥 Regular Maintenance Keeps Your Fireplace Healthy

Annual chimney inspections and cleanings help prevent creosote buildup and ensure proper ventilation. A clean, well-maintained fireplace not only performs better — it’s safer and more visually appealing when integrated into your interior design.

Final Styling & Safety Takeaways

Your fireplace should be a thoughtful blend of style and safety. Avoiding the wrong decor and materials helps:

• Preserve the architectural integrity of the hearth

• Promote a more elegant, intentional aesthetic

• Increase overall home safety

• Improve the long-term enjoyment of the space

If you’re looking to elevate your fireplace styling — whether it’s active or purely decorative — consider reaching out about curated design solutions that balance beauty with practical safety. Great design isn’t just what you add — it’s knowing what not to use and why.