Modern Fireplaces, Screens & Tools
Living Room Fireplaces & Accessories Explore
Why We Love Modern Fireplaces
On brisk fall and winter nights, there's nothing more comforting than curling up in front of a toasty fire. Now you can have that cozy feeling--and clean contemporary design--anywhere with a modern fireplace. The self-contained fuel wells and smoke and ash-free burning (via clean-burning ethanol) of most indoor fireplaces mean you no longer have to be chained to your chimney. Meanwhile, from screens to pokers to log holders, fireplace accessories and tools add the brilliant element of stainless steel to traditional and contemporary hearths alike. Get cozy in your home with a new fireplace.
Where Modern Fireplaces & Tools Work Best
Keeping in mind room size and ventilation requirements, a contemporary fireplace can be brought into virtually any space, and placed on the table, floor or mounted on the wall, especially with the indoor fireplace options available from Radius Design. But contemporary fireplaces are particularly warming in chilly bedrooms and open living rooms. Thanks to their portable nature, this assortment of well-chosen fireplaces allows you to be creative in where you decide to place them. Of course, you may also want to take the fireplace outside for hanging out after a summer barbecue or enjoying the great outdoors on a fall evening.
Once you have a fireplace chosen, turn your attention to accessorizing it with an assortment of tools. Stylish fireplace tools and accessories are a necessity to complement the design of the fireplaces featured here. From stainless steel lighters to fireplace screens and log holders that stand out in any space, these accessories will add a splash of contemporary style while being completely functional and useful.
A Fireplace For Every Style
While this collection of fireplaces brandish stainless steel accents, there's no space where they can't be used. That may mean traditionally decorated homes or those with ultra-modern accents. Consider a wall-mounted fireplace from the Radius collection to add dramatic character and warmth to your bare walls. Portable fireplaces (also from Radius) allow you to take the comfort and heat with you on the go or they work well anytime you choose to rearrange your room. Find eco-friendly tabletop fireplaces in the Eco-Feu collection and look to Blomus for all of the tools you need to go with a new fireplace.
Choosing The Best Fireplace
To find the right fireplace for your purpose, first you'll need to determine your needs. Do you need a fireplace that can be moved around anytime you want to redecorate? Or is it a fireplace to sit atop a mantle or dining table? Once you have answered these questions, you'll be able to easily refine your selection. Size is another important consideration and you'll need to look to a fireplace's height, width and length to choose the best option. With a size and style in mind, you're ready for a new fireplace. If you have any questions about the fireplaces and tools featured here, please call our decor experts at 877.445.4486.
Other Considerations
If you love the sharp, stainless look available from Blomus, you will want to check out the rest of the collection for more decorative accessories for the kitchen, bathroom and living room. And if it's the romantic flicker of fire you really dig from these designer fireplaces, you can have it anywhere with the selection of available decorative candles. Finally, in addition to outdoor fireplaces, you may also enjoy the selection of garden torches to add a sparkle to your exteriors.
Fireplaces & Accessories FAQs
How do you describe a fireplace?
A fireplace is a structure designed to contain a controlled fire, providing warmth, ambiance, and comfort to indoor or outdoor living spaces. Fireplaces typically feature a chimney or vent to safely direct smoke outdoors.
Expert Tip: When designing around a fireplace, treat it as the room's focal point - arrange seating within 8 feet for optimal warmth and conversation flow. For gas models, consider adding a log grate to elevate the flames for better visibility.
What is the best type of fire pit to get?
The best fire pit depends on your specific needs:
• Wood-burning fire pits offer authentic flames, warmth, and the traditional crackling sound of a fire.
• Gas fire pits provide convenience, clean burning, and instant ignition.
• Fire tables combine functionality with modern style, serving as both a heat source and a stylish table.
Expert Tip: For year-round use, choose a convertible fire pit table with a removable cover that converts to a regular patio table when not in use. Look for models with adjustable flame heights (30,000-50,000 BTUs) for customizable warmth.
What are the uses of a fireplace?
Fireplaces provide warmth, ambiance, and visual appeal to living spaces. They can also serve as decorative focal points, increase home value, and offer an alternative heating source during colder months.
Expert Tip: Modern fireplaces can be multi-functional - many models now include built-in wood storage nooks, mantel shelving for display, or even integrated media consoles above the firebox.
What is the point of a fireplace screen?
A fireplace screen prevents sparks and embers from escaping the fireplace, enhancing safety. Fireplace screens also protect children and pets from direct contact with the flames and hot surfaces, while complementing interior décor.
Expert Tip: Choose a screen with a magnetic closure system - it stays securely in place but removes easily for fireplace access. For homes with toddlers, look for extra-tall screens (36"+) with bottom-weighted bases.
What is the difference between a fire pit and a fire table?
A fire pit is typically a standalone, open design primarily focused on creating heat and ambiance. A fire table combines a functional tabletop with a built-in fire feature, offering practicality along with warmth and aesthetic appeal.
Expert Tip: Fire tables work best in small patios (they take up less floor space than pit seating circles), while fire pits create better warmth dispersion for larger gatherings. For dining areas, choose fire tables with heat-resistant tabletops at least 42" wide.
What are the different types of fire screens?
Fireplace screens come in several styles:
• Single-panel screens offer sleek simplicity and easy movement.
• Folding screens (multi-panel) allow adjustable coverage and traditional aesthetics.
• Glass fireplace screens provide clear, stylish protection while preserving visibility.
• Spark guard screens (fully enclosed mesh) offer maximum protection from sparks and embers.
Expert Tip: For modern fireplaces, consider a two-in-one solution: a retractable glass screen that slides away when not needed, combined with a removable mesh spark guard for wood-burning use.
How big should a fireplace screen be?
A fireplace screen should extend at least 3–5 inches beyond the fireplace opening on all sides. Measure your fireplace opening and choose a screen that provides complete coverage, ensuring optimal safety and aesthetics.
Expert Tip: Add 2 extra inches to your measurements if you frequently burn wood - the additional coverage helps contain popping embers. For arched openings, look for custom-shaped screens that follow the firebox contour.
What is the safest fireplace screen?
Fully enclosed spark guard screens or tightly woven mesh screens are considered the safest. These fireplace screens provide maximum protection by preventing sparks and embers from escaping, especially important for wood-burning fireplaces.
Expert Tip: Look for screens with mesh no larger than 1/4" openings - this prevents even small embers from passing through. Bonus if it has a self-closing hinge mechanism.
What kind of screen do you use for a fireplace?
Use a sturdy mesh or glass fireplace screen designed specifically for your fireplace type. Mesh screens are common for wood-burning fireplaces, while glass or decorative metal screens suit gas fireplaces.
Expert Tip: For gas fireplaces with ceramic logs, choose a screen with at least 12" clearance from the glass front - this prevents heat damage to metal finishes over time.
Is a mesh screen necessary for a gas fireplace?
While not strictly required, a mesh screen is highly recommended for gas fireplaces. It protects against accidental contact with hot glass surfaces and enhances overall safety, particularly in homes with children or pets.
Expert Tip: For gas fireplaces, tempered glass screens provide the clearest view of flames while still offering burn protection. Look for models with ceramic handles that stay cool to the touch.
What is the standard height of a fire screen?
The standard height of a fireplace screen is typically between 28 and 35 inches. Measure your fireplace opening and select a fire screen slightly taller than the opening for optimal coverage and protection.
Expert Tip: The perfect screen height allows 6-8 inches of visible fire below the top edge - this creates a framed view while maintaining safety. For see-through designs, position the top at eye level when seated.
How big should a fire pit be?
The ideal fire pit size typically ranges between 30 to 44 inches in diameter. Consider your available space and seating arrangement when choosing a size, ensuring there's enough room around the fire pit for safe movement and comfort.
Expert Tip: Allow 30-36 inches of clearance between the fire pit edge and seating - this creates a comfortable "toast zone" where guests can warm hands without excessive heat exposure.
How long do fire pits last?
Well-maintained fire pits typically last 5–15 years or longer, depending on material and usage. Cast iron and steel fire pits are very durable, while copper and aluminum may offer shorter lifespans due to exposure to outdoor elements.
Expert Tip: Extend your fire pit's life by 5+ years with simple care: cover when not in use, apply high-temperature paint annually, and place on pavers instead of grass to prevent moisture damage.
How far should a fire pit be from a house?
Fire pits should be placed at least 10–20 feet away from your house or any flammable structures. Always follow local regulations and manufacturer recommendations to ensure safe operation.
Expert Tip: Create a "spark zone" by surrounding your fire pit with a 3-foot radius of non-flammable materials (gravel, stone, or fire-resistant pavers) for added safety.
What goes in a fire pit?
• Wood-burning fire pits require seasoned hardwood or firewood.
• Gas fire pits typically use propane or natural gas, with decorative fire glass, lava rocks, or ceramic logs enhancing the flame appearance.
Expert Tip: For wood-burning pits, keep a metal bucket of sand nearby (not water) to extinguish stray embers. With gas pits, use only manufacturer-approved media - lava rocks should be replaced every 2-3 years as they degrade.