In a frozen New York City, where any inch of you that has escaped the bed covers is freezing…. it’s easy to dream of a properly heated home with a bomb ass fireplace. 

I used to think hulking, natural stone fireplaces were only for outdated lodges or usually adorned with the dead animal heads shot by their owners. But over time, I have changed my tune and the below inspiration is why. 

A well crafted, stone fireplace can be the pinnacle of all focal points in a home. But natural stone can be tricky to get right. So here are some definitive tips to styling with stone:

• Texture: Assuming you are not into animal heads (just no…not ever) you need to overcome that old-fashioned feel that can come so easily with stone. For a fresh look, texture is your friend. Rock leather or tufted velvet seating to make your fireplace look current. Consider a shag rug which instantly amps the cozy factor but softens that inherent rough and jagged look.
• Wood: If you have stone, you should embrace that down-to-earth, natural feel. Reclaimed wood is the ideal pairing. You have a few options: cover your walls or ceiling in barn wood, secure massive pieces of distressed wood for your mantel or ceiling beams or get organized with shelving. 
• Pottery & Baskets: I don’t write the rule book, but pottery and woven baskets are always the perfect accessories to style a fireplace. Consider painted vases in bold earth tones, fresh white, gold metallics for shining contrast or this gold cactus one just because. Chopped wood or birch tree logs in a fresh woven basket is also a nice touch.

When brought all together, perfection:

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Stay warm and sassy.

Jenn