Even when not in use, a fireplace is a focal point of whatever space it occupies. Decorative yet functional, cozy yet sleek, a modern take on the traditional hearth offers the best of both worlds when it comes to any design scheme. And while a fireplace does provide warmth, there’s no reason it can’t be cool and contemporary.

The look of your fireplace can elevate–or downgrade–the appeal of a space, so choosing a style that fits your vibe is key to crafting an interior you love. Contemplating a reno of your own? Whether you're looking to update an older structure or build your contemporary dream home, here are gorgeous modern fireplaces that are sure to spark design inspiration.

FLOATING FIREPLACE

In The White Company founder Chrissie Rucker's poolside oasis, a floating center fireplace is the perfect place to huddle around, with a cement design that sticks to the pool house's rustic aesthetic.

MURAL WALL

In the entertainment room of this Richard Mishaan-designed TriBeCa home, a fireplace is covered in a mural depicting a geode, serving as a focal point for the gem-toned space.

CRISP WHITE

In an East Hampton home belonging to two art collectors, crisp white walls are warmed up with an inset fireplace, which is appropriately styled given the home's stark design.

MOODY STACKED STONE

The cool-toned stacked stone on this Malibu living room fireplace offers a sleek contrast to the fire's warm glow.

ART-TOPPED

A simple slate fireplace in fashion designer Lisa Perry's French living room is topped with striking modern art that gives life to the space while maintaining a clean-lined appeal.

STARK LINES

A Kara Mann-designed Chicago living room fuses clean minimalist lines with textural richness, including the large stone fireplace with its wave-like striations.

FRAMED FIREPLACE

In a Notting Hill apartment designed by Haynes Roberts, a modern fireplace in the living room is framed by metal, black marble, and ivory marble.

GRAY TONES

A contemporary marble fireplace in Jeffrey Dodd's Manhattan penthouse is backed by warm gray marble that blends in with the room's monochromatic.

BLENDING IN

The "barely there" fireplace in this Beverly Hills master bedroom is tucked away discreetly in the corner, featuring textured, charcoal-colored stones. The modern space features a headboard and canopy in a Romo velvet, and a throw by Bunny Williams Home. The vintage sheepskin chair is by Peter Hvidt, and the artwork to the right of the bed is by Joel Shapiro.

FIREWOOD WALL

In the home office of this Lower East Side condo, a wall of firewood and exposed brick helps temper the modernness and cozy up the industrial space.

POLISHED MARBLE

In Entertainment Tonight host Keltie Knight's master bedroom, an original fireplace is given a modern facelift with simple white marble and a matte black mantel. While the room boasts a modern design, the warmth of the hearth adds a layer of coziness.

METALLIC BRICK

In this open concept home designed by Soler Architecture and Design, a modern two-way fireplace is given a reflective façade, thanks to metallic bricks that reflect the abundant natural light in the space.