kitchen fireplace seating area

A custom indoor fireplace instantly transforms any room into a luxurious, inviting retreat. Whether you’re designing from scratch or modernizing an outdated hearth, a beautifully crafted fireplace becomes the natural focal point, anchoring the space with warmth, elegance and character.

At Dover Home Remodelers, we’ve helped Northeast Ohio homeowners reimagine their interiors for over four decades. Our expert team specializes in upgrading and updating fireplaces as part of whole-home renovations or standalone remodels. In this post, we’ll walk through everything from fireplace design styles and material choices to modern gas insert upgrades and surround rehabs.

Before Kitchen Wall
Before – No fireplace on kitchen wall – View Project
Kitchen Fireplace
After – New two-sided fireplace is added – View Project

The Benefits of Custom Indoor Fireplace Installation

Installing a custom fireplace instantly transforms your space with elegance, warmth and architectural impact, among other benefits:

Elegant Focal Point

A new fireplace installation instantly captures attention. It draws the eye and naturally defines a room’s layout—ideal for both open-concept and traditional floor plans. Custom mantel and surround designs ensure your fireplace blends seamlessly with your home’s unique architectural style, whether it’s modern, farmhouse, transitional or classic colonial.

Boosts Home Value and Appeal

A thoughtfully designed fireplace is not only beautiful—it’s a wise investment. Premium fireplaces increase resale appeal and perceived value. With energy-efficient inserts and well-insulated construction, they also deliver real savings on heating bills while enhancing daily comfort. High-end finishes, such as natural stone, tile and hardwood, reflect the quality craftsmanship that buyers can see and feel.

Enhances Comfort and Ambiance

There’s no substitute for the cozy ambience of a fireplace. It provides consistent warmth during the cooler months in Northeast Ohio, creating a welcoming space for families to gather, entertain or unwind.

Flexible Indoor Placement

Think beyond the living room. Today’s fireplace designs allow for creative placement in bedrooms, home offices, kitchens and even bathrooms. Corner and see-through options can visually connect two adjacent spaces, creating a seamless transition. Custom built-ins and entertainment centers make the fireplace a cohesive part of the room’s layout.

Upgrading Existing Fireplaces to Gas

Modern gas fireplace upgrades integrate convenience, energy efficiency and contemporary style, maximizing the use of your existing home structure.

Assessing the Existing Structure

Before any upgrades, the current fireplace’s condition must be checked by inspecting the chimney’s integrity, flue system and clearances. We also assess the feasibility of gas line installation and identify any necessary masonry or structural repairs to ensure safety and functionality.

Selecting the Right Gas Insert

We help you in comparing vented and vent-free gas inserts for optimal efficiency and aesthetics. Whether you prefer sleek linear flames or traditional log-style visuals, we guide you in selecting the insert that best fits your room’s design, size and heating requirements.

Rehabbing the Surround and Mantel

Modernizing an old fireplace often involves updating the surround and mantel. We replace worn brick with fresh tile, stone or marble—and build custom mantels in wood or metal to complement your space. Many homeowners also opt to incorporate built-in shelving or patterned tile insets to enhance the design.

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Every gas upgrade includes the installation of a professional venting system and strict adherence to local building codes and manufacturer guidelines, allowing you to enjoy your fireplace with peace of mind.

Kitchen Fireplace - Before Photo
Before – View Project
Dover Home Remodelers, Inc
After – View Project

Indoor Fireplace Design Considerations

Thoughtful design choices—from style and materials to layout—ensure your fireplace reflects your taste and enhances your home’s ambiance.

Choosing a Style That Speaks to You

Your fireplace should showcase your personal style. Choose modern linear designs if you appreciate a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Looking for something timeless? Classic brick or stacked stone provides a warm and traditional charm that never goes out of style.

Material Selection for Surrounds and Mantels

We use high-quality materials to guarantee durability and sophistication:

  • Stone like marble, granite and limestone bring natural beauty and resilience.
  • Reclaimed or hardwood mantels add texture, warmth and custom details.

Fireplace Surround Layouts and Features

From dramatic floor-to-ceiling surrounds to functional built-ins and floating shelves, we customize the layout to elevate your space and improve usability.

Gold Coast Corner Penthouse – Before Photo
Before – View Project
Linear electric fireplace with beautiful downtown Cleveland city view in background
After – View Project

Why Choose Dover Home Remodelers for Your Fireplace Project

With decades of experience, Dover Home Remodelers delivers customized design, meticulous craftsmanship and end-to-end project management you can trust.

Unmatched Design Expertise

We begin each project with a personalized consultation to gain a clear understanding of your vision. You’ll collaborate with our in-house design experts who can assist you in exploring options and finding inspiration from our previous projects.

Reliable Project Management

We manage every step—from initial design and permitting to installation and final finishing. With clear timelines, budget tracking and coordination of gas and HVAC specialists, you’re in trusted hands from start to finish.

Quality Craftsmanship and Luxury Materials

Our skilled craftsmen work with only the finest materials to ensure your fireplace is not only visually stunning but also built to last.

Ready to elevate your home with a stunning indoor fireplace? Let’s turn your vision into a warm and welcoming reality. Schedule a personalized design consultation with Dover Home Remodelers today.

The best is yet to come,
Beth Orr