In Melbourne, where winter days can call for cosy interiors and architectural charm, a stone fireplace offers more than warmth—it becomes the centrepiece of the room. Whether you’re restoring a period home in Fitzroy or building a sleek new residence in Brighton, a thoughtfully designed stone fireplace can elevate the feel of your entire space.
Stone fireplace surrounds—whether compact or floor-to-ceiling—bring a bold visual anchor to both traditional and contemporary interiors. With styles ranging from classic and rustic to minimal and modern, there’s a natural stone solution to suit every Melbourne home.
Here’s a look at 13 inspiring stone fireplace ideas, tailored to different design styles and lifestyles across Melbourne.
1. Rustic Fieldstone Fireplace for Country Warmth
Ideal for Victorian cottages or homes in the Yarra Valley, fieldstone fireplaces offer a rugged, organic texture that suits rustic or farm-style interiors. With their weathered, irregular shapes and earthy tones, these stones evoke a sense of heritage and comfort.
2. Floor-to-Ceiling Fireplace as a Focal Feature
Perfect for Melbourne homes with high ceilings—think Carlton lofts or Ivanhoe modern builds—a full-height stone fireplace makes a dramatic design statement. Choose pale stones like limestone to brighten compact rooms or opt for darker tones like slate for moody, luxurious vibes.
3. Stone Veneer Fireplace: Lightweight & Stylish
Want the look of stacked stone without the weight? Veneer options offer flexibility and are ideal for urban renovations in Melbourne’s inner-city homes where structural limits may apply. Thin or full-bed stone veneers recreate the authentic look of hand-laid stone at a lower cost and easier installation.
4. Matte Black Stone Fireplaces for Modern Sophistication
Darker stone surrounds, such as bluestone or honed black granite, are perfect for those aiming for a bold, contemporary look—common in homes across Southbank and Docklands. Pair with neutral or white interiors for high contrast and visual depth.
5. Limestone Surrounds for Earthy Elegance
Limestone’s soft tones and natural textures suit many Melbourne homes, from coastal properties on the Mornington Peninsula to suburban family homes in Balwyn. It’s durable and beautiful, though it does benefit from regular sealing due to its porous nature.
6. Classic Marble Fireplace Surrounds
For a luxurious touch, marble remains an unmatched choice. In Melbourne, marble fireplaces are popular in both grand Edwardian terraces and high-end new builds. Polished Calacatta, Statuario, or Viola marble mantels offer timeless appeal with modern versatility.
7. Mixed Material Fireplace Designs
Layering stone with complementary materials—like timber, metal, or concrete—adds interest and texture. Reclaimed wood mantels combined with light stone surrounds offer a blend of warmth and style ideal for eclectic homes in Brunswick or Northcote.
8. Stone Fireplace with TV Mount
Today’s open-plan living often includes mounting a TV above the fireplace. In Melbourne homes where entertaining is a priority, this dual-purpose design works beautifully in living rooms, alfresco areas, or poolside lounges. Use clean-lined stone or porcelain for a sleek, balanced look.
9. Outdoor Stone Fireplaces for Melbourne Alfresco Living
Extend your living space outdoors with a stone fireplace that anchors your backyard entertaining zone. Melbourne’s cooler months make this a practical luxury. Weather-resistant stones like granite or travertine add both functionality and natural charm.
10. Fireplaces with Built-In Storage
Pairing your fireplace with built-in shelving or recesses adds form and function—ideal for homes where space is a premium, such as apartments in Richmond or compact townhouses in Port Melbourne. Built-ins offer a place to store firewood or showcase décor.
11. Fireplaces with Tile Accents
Adding decorative tile to your stone fireplace creates a custom look with a splash of colour or texture. Moroccan-style tiles, handmade ceramics, or subtle patterned porcelain can enhance a limestone or marble surround in unique, eye-catching ways.
12. See-Through Fireplaces for Open Plan Spaces
For homes with open-plan layouts, a double-sided fireplace provides warmth and ambiance to more than one zone—such as living and dining areas. In larger builds across Toorak or Hawthorn, this design acts as a statement feature while maintaining flow and visibility.
13. Fireplace Features in Bathrooms
Yes, fireplaces are making their way into bathrooms—especially in high-end renovations and luxury builds. Picture a freestanding tub in front of a marble-clad fireplace wall. Whether you’re in Kew or South Yarra, this is a bold way to turn your ensuite into a personal retreat.
Best Stones for Fireplaces in Melbourne Homes
Selecting the right material is crucial—not just for looks, but for performance under heat. Here’s a breakdown of commonly used fireplace stones:
-
Limestone – Ideal for gas or electric fireplaces; soft and earthy but avoid using with high-heat wood fires.
-
Slate – A naturally textured stone in various colours; energy-efficient and best used with gas or electric units.
-
Granite – Incredibly durable, mid-priced, and suitable for wood or gas fireplaces. Excellent for outdoor use too.
-
Soapstone – Heat-retaining and visually subtle; a premium option for those who want function and refinement.
-
Marble – Durable, elegant, and heat-resistant. A high-end stone that elevates both period homes and modern builds.
-
Stone Veneer – Lightweight and cost-effective. A smart choice for renovations or installations where structural weight matters.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're restoring a classic Victorian, building in a modern coastal style, or simply want to upgrade your living room feature wall, a stone fireplace can completely transform the energy of your space.
At Elsa Home & Beauty, we specialise in bespoke marble and natural stone pieces tailored to Melbourne homes. From rich, moody granite to soft, elegant marble surrounds, our collection helps you make a statement—indoors or out.
