I’ve always seen a fireplace as more than just a way to keep warm, but it can truly be the heart of a living room.
If you’ve been thinking about how to make yours both stylish and practical, modern built-ins around your fireplace might be exactly what you need. They provide storage, a space to showcase your favorite pieces, and a focal point that captures the eye.
I’ll share ideas for every style, from sleek floating shelves to inviting window seating, along with tips for picking materials and layouts that suit your space.
By the end, you’ll have plenty of inspiration to create a look that’s functional, stylish, and completely your own.
How to Plan Built-Ins Around a Fireplace
Planning built-in shelves around a fireplace starts with accurate measurements to maintain balance and safety. Measure the height and width of the wall, leaving 2-4 inches between the fireplace and the units for heat clearance, and keep shelves within a reachable height of about 7 feet.
Choose durable materials that fit your style, such as solid wood or plywood for strength, MDF for a budget-friendly painted finish, and heat-resistant options if they’re close to the firebox, pairing them with hardware that complements the room.
Finally, decide between a symmetrical layout with matching sides for a clean, balanced look or an asymmetrical design for a modern, relaxed feel, and test your layout with tape or a sketch before you build.
Modern Built-In Fireplace Ideas for Every Space
Modern fireplace built-ins bring both style and function to your living space. A fireplace with built-ins can store everyday items, display your favorite pieces, and turn the fireplace into a natural focal point.
Here are some ideas to help you choose a design that works best for your home:
1. Minimalist White Cabinets with Hidden Storage
White cabinets create a clean and bright appearance that works in almost any living room. Using push-to-open doors means there are no handles to break the smooth surface.
The hidden storage helps keep the area tidy by concealing items you don’t want on display. This design is best if you want a simple, uncluttered look.
2. Floor-to-Ceiling Floating Shelves
Floating shelves from floor to ceiling give the wall a tall, open feel. They’re great for holding books, plants, or decorative objects.
The wall space between shelves can stay light and airy, especially if painted a lighter shade. This style works well if you want to display more items without using bulky furniture.
3. Black Matte Built-Ins for a Bold Contrast
Matte black cabinets or shelves stand out against light walls. They make the fireplace area feel more defined and modern. This style pairs nicely with metal accents like brushed gold or chrome.
It’s a good choice if you want the fireplace wall to have a strong visual presence. Adding built-in lighting can make the dark finish stand out even more.
4. Asymmetrical Layout with One Side Open Shelving
Having built-ins on one side and open space on the other creates a relaxed, modern feel. It’s useful for rooms with windows or doors close to the fireplace.
The open side can hold artwork or a plant to balance the design. This layout works well when you want storage without making the wall feel heavy.
5. Fluted Panel Built-Ins
Fluted panels add gentle texture to the wall without looking busy. They can be used on cabinet doors or as part of the shelving. The lines create visual interest and give a custom finish.
This style blends well in both warm and cool color schemes. They also work nicely with painted or stained finishes, giving you flexibility in design.
6. IKEA Billy Bookcase Hack with Custom Trim
You can use affordable IKEA bookcases and add trim to make them look built-in. Painting them the same color as the wall helps them blend seamlessly. It’s a budget-friendly way to get a polished finish.
This works best if you want modern style without a high cost. Adding custom hardware or lighting can make the finished piece feel more upscale.
7. Built-Ins with Integrated TV Mount
Mounting the TV in the built-in keeps cables hidden and the wall organized. The shelves or cabinets around it can hold media equipment or decor. This design creates a single focal point for both the fireplace and TV.
It’s ideal for small living rooms that need one main feature wall. Choosing heat-safe materials ensures the TV and built-ins stay protected over time.
8. LED-Lit Shelves for a Modern Glow
Adding LED lights to the shelves creates a warm glow in the evenings. The light highlights books, artwork, or decorative items without overpowering the room. You can choose warm or cool tones depending on your style.
This design works well in living rooms that double as evening relaxation spaces. Installing dimmable lighting gives you more control over brightness and mood.
9. Metal and Wood Mixed Shelving
Combining wood shelves with a slim metal frame gives a balanced, modern-industrial style. The wood keeps it warm, while the metal adds structure. It’s a durable option that works well for heavy books or decor.
This style fits in both modern and transitional homes. Mixing finishes, like black metal with light oak, can make the design stand out even more.
10. Glass-Front Cabinet Built-Ins
Glass doors let you display items while keeping dust away. You can choose clear glass for a full view or frosted for a softer look. This is a good option for displaying glassware, ceramics, or books.
It keeps the space looking neat and intentional. Adding interior lighting can make the displayed items more eye-catching.
11. Open Shelves with Cabinet Base Storage
Shelves above hold decorative items, while cabinets below hide clutter. This setup keeps daily items out of sight while still offering display space. The combination makes it easy to keep the room looking clean.
It’s a smart choice for family living rooms. Using matching finishes for both shelves and cabinets creates a coordinated look.
12. Stone Accent Surround with Built-Ins
Adding stone around the fireplace gives texture and depth. Built-ins on each side balance the look and add storage. The stone can be light or dark depending on the style you want.
This is a sturdy and lasting design choice. Pairing the stone with simple, clean-lined cabinetry keeps the overall look modern and balanced.
13. Floating Cabinet Units Under Shelves
Mounting cabinets above the floor creates a lighter, more open feel. The shelves above can hold decor while the cabinets store everyday items. This style works well in modern and minimalist homes.
It’s also easier to clean underneath. Choosing a floating design with hidden brackets enhances the sleek, uncluttered look.
14. Neutral-Toned Built-Ins for a Soft Modern Look
Cabinetry in beige or taupe blends into the wall and feels calm. It’s easy to match with different furniture and decor styles. This design works well if you want a timeless, low-contrast look.
It’s also less likely to feel dated over time. Adding subtle texture, like wood grain or matte finishes, can make the cabinets feel more refined.
15. High-Gloss Cabinetry for a Luxe Feel
Glossy finishes reflect light and make the room feel brighter. They are also easy to wipe clean, making them practical for everyday use. This works well in smaller rooms that need more light.
It’s a simple way to add a bit of elegance to a modern space. Pairing glossy cabinetry with minimal hardware keeps the look sleek and uncluttered.
16. Fireplace with Built-In Window Seating
A bench under the windows next to the fireplace creates a cozy corner. Built-in drawers under the seat add extra storage. This setup is great for reading or enjoying the warmth of the fire.
It also makes use of otherwise empty wall space. Adding cushions and throw pillows can make the seating area even more inviting.
17. Modern Farmhouse Built-Ins
White shaker-style cabinets paired with black handles bring a farmhouse feel with a modern touch. Wood shelving or accents can add warmth. This design works well in open living spaces.
It’s a style that feels both comfortable and current. Pairing it with neutral wall colors helps the built-ins stand out without overwhelming the room.
18. Slim Vertical Shelves
Tall, narrow shelves make use of tight spaces beside the fireplace. They’re perfect for a few books, vases, or plants. This design helps fill empty space without making the wall feel crowded.
It’s great for small or narrow rooms. Using adjustable shelves allows you to change the display to suit different items over time.
19. Built-Ins with Artwork Niche Above Fireplace
Leaving a space for artwork above the fireplace keeps the design focused. It can also be used as a mirror or a family photo. The surrounding built-ins frame the piece and make it stand out.
This setup works well in both modern and classic homes. Adding lighting above the niche can make the featured piece even more eye-catching.
20. Textured Wood Veneer Built-Ins
Wood veneer adds warmth and a natural touch to modern spaces. Lighter tones work for an airy look, while darker tones feel richer. The texture makes the wall more interesting without being busy.
It’s a durable and attractive choice. Pairing wood veneer with simple shelving keeps the overall design balanced and clean.
21. Two-Tone Built-Ins
Use one color for the lower cabinets and another for the upper shelves. This breaks up the wall and adds visual interest. It works well if you want a modern style without going all one color.
The combination can also help balance light and dark tones in the room. Choosing finishes that complement the rest of the decor will make the design feel cohesive.
22. Minimalist Open Cubby Shelves
Small, evenly sized cubbies keep items organized and easy to see. They work on books, baskets, or decorative pieces. This style looks neat and is easy to maintain.
It’s great for people who like a simple, organized display. Using matching storage bins can help keep the look even cleaner and more uniform.
23. Curved Edge Built-Ins
Rounded corners make built-ins feel softer and more relaxed. They’re a good option if you want a modern design that’s also family-friendly. Curves can help the units blend better with the rest of the room.
This design works well in open living spaces. Pairing curved edges with smooth finishes increases the gentle, flowing look.
24. Floor-to-Ceiling Tile Surround with Side Built-Ins
Tiling around the fireplace makes it a standout feature. Built-ins on each side keep the wall balanced and functional. Tile is also easy to clean and long-lasting.
This works well in both modern and transitional rooms. Choosing a tile pattern or texture that complements the cabinetry can tie the whole wall together.
25. Backlit Niche Shelves
Recessed shelves with lights behind them create a warm, inviting glow. They’re great for showing off art, plants, or collectibles. The backlighting makes the display stand out even at night.
This design adds a subtle modern touch. Using dimmable lights lets you adjust the brightness for different moods, making the space versatile for both daily living and special occasions.
26. Built-Ins with Sliding Doors
Sliding doors save space and hide storage areas. They’re useful in small rooms where swinging doors might get in the way. The doors can be wood, glass, or even metal for different looks.
This keeps the design flexible and practical. Adding soft-close hardware makes them smoother and quieter to use, while also extending the life of the doors.
27. Integrated Desk with Fireplace Built-In Wall
Combining a desk with the built-in wall makes the space multi-functional. It’s great for home offices, homework areas, or creative workstations.
Shelves above can hold books, files, or decorative items for a personal touch. This setup is a smart way to make the most of limited space while keeping the room cohesive.
28. Corner Fireplace Built-Ins
Wrapping built-ins around a corner fireplace takes advantage of challenging layouts. Cabinets and shelves can be custom-fitted to work with the angles of the wall. This design works in both small and large rooms.
It helps the fireplace feel integrated into the overall room design. Adding lighting or contrasting finishes can make the corner feature stand out even more.
29. Built-Ins Framing Double-Sided Fireplace
Built-ins on both sides of a two-sided fireplace provide storage and symmetry. They work especially well in open floor plans where the fireplace connects two spaces.
Shelving can display books, decor, or personal collections. This approach makes the fireplace a striking central feature from multiple views.
30. Minimal Shelf + Fireplace Combo
Using just one or two slim shelves keeps the design simple and uncluttered. This is perfect for displaying a few carefully chosen items.
The minimalist approach helps keep the focus on the fireplace itself. It works best in modern or small spaces where clean lines are a priority.
31. Patterned Back Panel Shelves
Adding wallpaper or textured panels to the back of shelves brings depth and personality. Patterns can be subtle for a soft touch or bold for a statement look. This is an easy way to refresh built-ins without replacing them.
It’s also a fun way to change the style seasonally. Coordinating the pattern with other room elements helps create a unified, balanced design.
32. Built-Ins with Wine Storage
Including wine racks or cubbies in the built-ins is perfect for entertaining. It keeps bottles neatly stored and within easy reach. This feature works well in open living and dining areas.
It adds a mix of function and personality to the design. Pairing the wine storage with glassware shelves can create a complete mini bar setup.
33. All-Black Built-Ins with Brass Hardware
Matte black cabinets paired with brass handles create a sleek yet warm style. The brass adds just enough shine for contrast without being overwhelming. This combination works well with wood or neutral furniture.
It’s a bold choice that still feels inviting. Adding accent lighting can highlight the hardware and improve the overall look.
34. Built-Ins with Planter Shelf Section
A dedicated space for plants brings life and color to the built-ins. The shelf can hold one large planter or several smaller ones. Greenery helps soften the clean lines of modern designs.
This approach works in both casual and formal rooms. Choosing plant varieties that match the room’s light conditions will keep the display looking fresh year-round.
35. Rustic Wood Beam with Modern Built-Ins
A rustic wood beam mantel adds warmth to sleek, modern cabinets. The mix of materials creates a balanced style that blends old and new.
The beam can be left natural or stained to match other wood tones in the room. This design works especially well in a transitional living space.
If your style is modern, classic, or somewhere in between, a fireplace with built-ins can add lasting warmth, functionality, and style, making it a feature you’ll appreciate every day.
Safety Considerations for Fireplace Built-Ins
When designing a fireplace with built-ins, safety should always be a top priority. Following proper guidelines will help protect your home and ensure your built-ins last for years.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind before starting your project:
- Maintain proper heat clearance: Keep built-ins at least 2–4 inches away from the fireplace or follow the manufacturer’s specific clearance instructions.
- Allow for ventilation: Make sure there is space for air to circulate so heat does not build up inside cabinets or shelving.
- Use heat-resistant materials: Choose non-combustible or heat-tolerant materials like stone, tile, metal, or high-quality plywood with heat-safe finishes.
- Protect electronics and decor: Avoid placing heat-sensitive items, such as TVs or delicate artwork, too close to the firebox.
- Follow local building codes: Check regulations in your area to make sure your design meets safety requirements.
Taking these precautions will help your fireplace built-ins stay safe, functional, and beautiful for the long term
Wrapping Up
Modern built-ins around a fireplace can completely change how your living space looks and works. With the right design, you can add useful storage, highlight your style, and make your fireplace the true centerpiece of the room.
Now that you’ve seen different ideas and tips, think about which ones fit your home best and how you might bring them to life.
Choose materials that will last and layouts that suit your room’s shape and size. A thoughtful design will give you both beauty and practicality for years to come.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my other posts for fresh ways to make every corner of your home stylish and functional.