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17 Off Center Fireplace Ideas that Will Enhance Your Space

By

Zakhar Ivanisov
Published: November 9, 2021
Updated: November 21, 2023

Reviewed by Artem Kropovinsky, Interior Designer and Founder of Arsight

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

There’s nothing more satisfying than curling up to a warm fireplace on a chilly evening. Cozy and inviting, the crackling sound of fire and the glow of the burning logs exudes a relaxing ambiance that’s hard to replicate. A fireplace also serves as the perfect gathering spot for family and friends.

But fireplaces don’t have to take center stage. Consider setting it off center. Off-center fireplaces add an unexpected twist and balance out an asymmetrical room. However, this only works if it looks intentional.

To make a room with an off-center fireplace work, strive to achieve balance with the rest of your décor, such as mounting the TV to its side instead of above the fireplace. Another alternative is filling the empty wall with a bookshelf or display cabinets. Hanging a large piece of artwork would also keep the fireplace from looking too off-center. 

Keep on reading for some off-center fireplace ideas to help you deal with this design conundrum!

01
of 17

Paint to Create Contrast

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: the_whole_9_yards_design

The wooden fireplace mantel blends in with the rest of the wood used in this farmhouse-style sunroom. Painting the surround a dark hue ensures it stands out, making it the room’s focal point, while also effortlessly complementing the gas fireplace.

02
of 17

A Conversational Layout

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: westcottonwoodlane

In this modern farmhouse space, whitewashed brickwork perfectly harmonizes with the white walls. Mounting the TV above the corner fireplace creates a single focal point and simplifies the furniture arrangement, resulting in a warm, inviting space.

03
of 17

Sleek and Modern

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: interiorswag

Install your electric fireplace in the space beside your stairs. The floating fireplace creates a cozy atmosphere, with the black sleek framing beautifully contrasting the stark white walls. An artificial fireplace like this is perfect for those wanting the warmth and aesthetics of a traditional fireplace without the hassle.

04
of 17

Enhance Your Bedroom

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: herrhome

This simple fireplace pops against the gray walls in this neutral bedroom. A white wooden surround introduces a chic feel, with the carved crown molding adding flair and classy touch. The two windows add another focal point, which distracts from the fireplace’s off-center positioning.

05
of 17

Ditch Red Brick

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: homebydesign.nc

The floor-to-ceiling brickwork emphasizes this room’s off-center fireplace and instantly draws the eye upwards. The brick is painted the same muted hue as the walls for a clean and harmonious look. The black-painted mantel and hearth add dramatic contrast, making this off-center fireplace feel chic.

06
of 17

Mount Into the Wall

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: diyinspiredhouse

A built-in fireplace infuses the perfect amount of elegance into this room. Arranging ornaments and a tall mirror atop the wooden mantle achieve asymmetrical balance with the tall cabinet on the left. Two wall cutouts and the furniture arrangement trick the eye into thinking the fireplace is centered.

07
of 17

Make it Your Focal Point

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: julie.thedesigntwins

Floor to ceiling brickwork, soft mood lighting, and a comfy seat make this corner fireplace a cozy and inviting spot. The chunky horizontal white mantel enhances the fireplace and moves your eyes across the length of the wall instead of up and down.

08
of 17

Stack Accessories

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: a_flann

This modern fireplace tucks into an angled corner of this cottage-style room for a neat finish. The leaning mirror and wall sconces add height, creating the illusion of visual balance, while the furniture placement allows for good conversation.

09
of 17

Power of the Mantel

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: westcottonwoodlane

Whitewashed stonework lends rustic charm and natural beauty to this farmhouse family room, while also emphasizing the room’s vaulted ceiling. A horizontal wooden mantel that matches ceiling beams adds a fresh spin and depth to the fireplace.

10
of 17

Go Modern

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: the_whole_9_yards_design

If you’re tight on space, consider setting up your fireplace in the corner, just like this space. A black shiplap surround introduces an edgy twist that’s contemporary yet classic, while the wood mantle adds warmth and visual texture. The fireplace’s slim profile makes it a perfect fit for modern homes.

11
of 17

Calm and Serene

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: theangabode

The pale stonework on this fireplace surround harmonizes perfectly with the stark white mantel and walls for a chic finish. The carved trim molding under the mantel brings a traditional but elegant feel to the space. Since the fireplace is painted the same color as the walls and furnishings, you don’t notice that it’s pushed to the corner.

12
of 17

Brick Goodness

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: revealmydiy

Paint your traditional brick fireplace all white to brighten things up and give it a modern update. The contrasting black mantel, centered art piece and holiday garland draw the eye away from the off-center fireplace.

13
of 17

Symmetrical Balance

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: lifeamongthecedars

For a more orderly look, duplicate your décor on both the left and right sides of the fireplace, just like in this living room. German smear finish on the brick creates a rustic and distressed look, giving this corner fireplace a dose of old world charm. The round mirrors above the mantle add depth and help establish a bright focal point.  

14
of 17

Embrace the Chaos

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: homesweetlakehouse

A great way to make an off-center fireplace appear deliberate is by emphasizing it, just like in this room. The stonework extending into the ceiling creates a charming focal point and draws the eye away from the fireplace. It also adds an understated rustic vibe. 

15
of 17

Black on White

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: clairelynnhome

The white horizontal shiplap combined with the wood beam mantel gives this cottage home a warm and vibrant update. Hanging a large mirror above this corner fireplace helps restore balance as it visually puts the fireplace at a similar height to the adjacent cabinet.

16
of 17

Old Charm

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: bluebarnandcottage

Spruce up your fireplace with the German smear technique reminiscent of old European cottages, just like this one. The raw brickwork against the surrounding white paint makes the fireplace stand out. This creates an illusion that its off-center placement is actually intentional.

17
of 17

Neutral Color Palette

Off Center Fireplace Ideas

Photo: kira_turner

The chunky wooden mantel of this traditional fireplace extends across the whole wall, instead of just across the fireplace, to bring in a sense of visual balance. The firebox and hearth in shades of black look cohesive, while the curated mantel adds depth and interest.

Interior designer Annuska Menoita shares her perspective on this design choice: “A mantel that spans the entire wall forms a striking feature, offering ample opportunity for creative arrangement of accessories. Embracing asymmetry in this way adds an intriguing dimension to the space, injecting a touch of visual interest and personality into the room.”

This neutral color palette, coupled with the off-center fireplace, creates a unique focal point in the room that is both stylish and inviting. Whether you’re a minimalist or prefer a more eclectic style, this design idea offers versatility and can be adapted to suit your personal taste.

Picture of Zakhar Ivanisov

Zakhar Ivanisov

Meet Zakhar Ivanisov, a Seattle-based entrepreneur and design enthusiast at the helm of Soul & Lane. With a heart full of passion, Zakhar blends his business acumen and a keen eye for aesthetics to create spaces that are as inviting as they are stylish. His venture into the world of home decor and organization reflects a unique fusion of entrepreneurial spirit and a genuine love for transforming living spaces.

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