SpaceLush: The fireplace

With winter upon us, we often see a fireplace as a focal point in design mags. I actually have a massive, freestanding fireplace that is made of field stone, painted white. The stone and the fact that it is painted white gives it a cottage look. I have been looking for design ideas. A friend of mine, Pam at How To Run Your Life suggests covering it. And I do like the idea, especially the one that is wood. It looks so clean and contemporary. Or, she says, cover it with metal for an industrial look (I dig this too!), or even make it look like a kiva. I like her style! Here are some of the wonderful fireplace images I have come across while wandering through ideas.

This fireplace is similar to mine in that it dominates the room. Mine, however is not so "neat" looking.