Application of natural slate stone - china brick

Natural slate stone-Tile Styles, Explained

With a wide range of styles, price points and applications available, the tile you choose for your fireplace surround can make or break its intended look. As this wall of styles at the Ann Sacks showroom at the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center demonstrates, there's an option, color and material out there to fit any homeowner's taste.

Natural slate stone-Striated Naxos

Naxos, a white marble from Greece, is a great fit for glamorous fireplace surrounds. Commonly available with striated detail, Naxos adds both texture and subtle pattern, a great alternative to solid marble, which can result in a heavy, overly rich look. When striated marble is applied to a fireplace surround, it's best to minimize grout lines by choosing a shade identical to or similar to the color of the tile.

Natural slate stone-Handcrafted Crackle Brick

Subway tile has become a versatile modern classic since it fits effortlessly into almost any style of home; however, it's mainly used in wet spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens and powder rooms. For a similar look befitting of a fireplace, handcrafted crackle brick is a great choice. Available in sizes identical to or similar to ceramic subway tile, handcrafted ceramic crackle brick has a slightly imperfect look, offering a play on texture and a variation in color. To showcase the rough edges of the tile, use a grout similar to its coloring. When a contrasting grout is used, it will detract from the edges.

Natural slate stone-Metallic Porcelain

Metallic porcelain tile is excellent for bringing a modern, moody touch to a fireplace. Depending on the tile chosen, metallics are often installed without grout, instead butted up against one another for a seamless look. Since metallic porcelain smudges easily, it requires more cleaning and maintenance than other tiles. If grout is used with metallic tile, it's important to use un-sanded grout since sanded will scratch the surface.

Natural slate stone-Wood-Look Porcelain

Most woods are not recommended for use around a fireplace surround due to flammability. To bring a similar, fireproof look to a wall, consider wood-look porcelain tile. Available in planks, this adds the look and feel of wood to a fireplace surround without the danger associated with true lumber.