18 Fireplace Lighting Ideas To Help Brighten Your Space
This post shows you the best Fireplace Lighting Ideas to try today.
I have always enjoyed the inviting and spacious feel of my fireplace surroundings.
As a homeowner, I have also struggled to find the perfect lighting for my fireplace.
I learned that the right balance between style and functionality will brighten your space.
Whether it is a modern or a rustic space, fireplace lighting can create the perfect ambiance.
From elegant LED strips to mesmerizing sconces, I have you covered.
Discover 18 lighting ideas to help you achieve a captivating space.
These lighting ideas will brighten and enhance the overall aesthetic of your space.
Pin it for later! ⤵️
Table of Contents
Recessed Ceiling Lights
Use recessed lighting on the ceiling above your fireplace.
Lighting emanating from the flat round-shaped lights reflects on the highly textured tumbled marble wall to create warm and neutral tones that brighten your space.
This design offers a direct point of light illuminating smaller fireplaces to create a harmonious space.
Minimal Ambient Lighting
For a subtle glow, you can install two hockey pucks for minimalist lighting above your fireplace.
The minimal lighting offers a contrast that highlights the color and texture of the granite walls to brighten the space.
The lighting design is ideal for brightening modern homes without overwhelming the space.
Backlit Onyx Stone Fireplace Wall
A sure way to brighten and show off your space is by using onyx stone for your fireplace.
The stunning combination of creative lighting and natural stone patterns transforms your space into an inviting and relaxing space.
The backlit onyx stone offers realistic flames brightening your space without the challenge of maintenance.
The Fall Effect
Brighten your outdoor space with a cozy retreat perfect for fall evenings.
Install string lights and two large candles by the fireplace for a warm glow that brightens your space.
Use ambient lighting on top of the fireplace to make your outdoor space more comfortable and inviting.
Sleek Surround Lights
Having minimal lighting on the sides and directly above the quartzite fireplace enhances the charm and warmth of the space.
This type of fireplace lighting is perfect for when the lights to your living room space are off allowing the quartzite slab to emit a captivating effect.
The minimalist design will brighten your space by giving it a sleek design.
Wall Sconces
Two chic black wall sconces hang above the fireplace illuminating the artwork and brightening the space.
The lampshade beside the fireplace offers warmth and style making your space the focal point of your home.
The striking sconces seamlessly fit with a traditional living room aesthetic giving it a timeless flair.
LED Strips for a Modern Look
LED strips below your fireplace provide a sleek and subtle way to brighten your space.
You can add the strips on the shelves beside your fireplace to illuminate your decorative pieces for a dynamic look in your space.
This design is perfect for adding unique lighting features in family rooms without taking away from the fireplace.
Hockey Pucks
Use hockey pucks to brighten the fireplace in small modern spaces.
The small round lights on each shelf on the side of the fireplace will offer direct illumination to brighten your space.
The lights cast on the decorative potted plants and art pieces coupled with the blue-red flames will catch the attention of anyone.
Reflective Surfaces and Overhead lights
Put two overhead lights on each side of the fireplace to provide ambient lighting.
Add clear glass shelves to your walls to create a reflective feature.
Lighting from the overhead lights will bounce off the reflective surfaces to brighten and enhance the dimensions of your space.
This design will ensure to inspire and maximize brightness within your space.
Mellow Lighting
Install mellow lighting for largely white-themed spaces to brighten the beautiful design.
Using mellow LED lights all around the fireplace mantle will reflect light on the white wall to brighten your space.
Further, decorate your white mantle with a black floating shelf with decorative elements to draw visual appeal and brighten your space.
Layered Soft Lighting
Add candles on top of the fireplace mantle and add lighting to the sides of the ceiling to add a layered lighting effect.
Strategically place lampshades in each corner around your fireplace space to emit a soft glow and cozy atmosphere.
This lighting design warmly brightens your space making it more comfortable for a read or an evening chat.
Maximize Natural Light
Make the most use of natural light by opening up your blinds and curtains to allow the evening glow into your space.
Pristine white walls around the fireplace will offer a practical way to maximize natural lighting and brighten your space.
The lamp above the fireplace also offers warm lighting that brightens the overall atmosphere.
Ceiling
Cover your translucent ceiling with bright lights to achieve a clean look to brighten your space.
The bright ceiling light accentuates the modern features of the space including the fireplace.
The lighting design brings attention to the elements in the space enhancing visibility when reading or performing other tasks.
Rustic Charm and Natural Elements
Lanterns can brighten your outdoor rustic fireplace giving it character and a timeless taste.
The natural elements from the lantern, plants, and woven chairs add a touch of texture to brighten your space.
The combination of these elements harmoniously brightens your outdoor fireplace and the surrounding space.
Cunningham Ledger Wall
A fireplace with a Cunningham ledger wall between two windows makes the most of natural lighting.
The lighting against the varying textures and colors brightens the room giving the space a versatile appeal.
The light on top of the shelf above the fireplace mantle complements the natural beauty of the ledger walls.
Waterfall Effect Lighting
Waterfall lighting effects over your fireplace create a striking mix of fire and water for a unique space.
Natural lighting from the window above strikes the waterfall creating a mesmerizing effect to brighten your space.
Paired with the colorful potted flowers, this design evokes a sense of relaxation in your space.
Open Fireplace
You can paint black on the top portion of your open fireplace to create a visually engaging space.
The black paint and the mellow lighting from an open fire radiate and brighten your space for a balanced harmonious mood.
This sleek design transforms your space into a unique setup with a striking mantel above the fireplace.
Cozy Festive Ambiance
Get creative with your Christmas decorations by adding ambient lighting from candles on top of the fireplace hearth to brighten the room with warm tones.
Add lights to your Christmas trees to achieve layered lighting texture around the fireplace.
The combination is a popular festive décor choice to brighten your space with a sense of nostalgia.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Are The Best Types of Fireplace Lighting for a Cozy Ambiance?
The best fireplace lighting options for creating a cozy ambiance are wall sconces, recessed lighting, and candle-style fixtures.
Wall sconces add a soft, flattering glow that frames the fireplace beautifully without being too harsh.
Recessed lighting is perfect for a modern, streamlined look that highlights the architectural features of the fireplace.
For a rustic or traditional feel, candle-style lights or lanterns create a warm, flickering glow that instantly makes the room feel more inviting.
Combining these options with dimmable features allows you to adjust the lighting based on the mood or occasion.
2. How Can I Use LED Lights Around My Fireplace?
LED lights are an energy-efficient and versatile option for illuminating your fireplace area.
You can install LED strips along the mantel to provide an elegant, low-key glow that accentuates the decor.
If your fireplace has built-in shelves, LED puck lights can highlight books, decor, or art pieces.
LED bulbs also come in a wide range of color temperatures, from warm whites to cool blues, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.
Another great tip is using LED candles for a flame-like effect without any fire hazard.
3. Is It Safe To Install Lights Near a Fireplace?
Yes, it is safe to install lights near a fireplace, but you should always follow safety precautions.
Make sure that any lighting fixture or electrical wiring is rated for heat exposure, especially if it’s close to the firebox.
Avoid placing lights directly above or too close to the flames to prevent damage from heat or smoke.
Opt for heat-resistant materials like metal or glass for your fixtures to ensure durability and safety over time.
Consult a professional electrician if you’re unsure about the best placement for your lighting.
4. How Can I Incorporate Smart Lighting with My Fireplace?
Smart lighting can enhance your fireplace setup by adding both convenience and a customizable atmosphere.
You can use smart bulbs or smart LED strips around the mantel that can be controlled through your smartphone or voice assistant.
Many smart lighting systems allow you to change the color or brightness with just a tap, which is perfect for adjusting the mood depending on the season or occasion.
Some smart lighting options even have firelight modes that mimic the flicker of real flames, making your fireplace area feel extra cozy without additional heat.
5. Can Fireplace Lighting Also Serve As Task Lighting?
Yes, fireplace lighting can double as task lighting, especially when combined with the right fixtures.
Swing-arm wall sconces can provide focused light for reading, knitting, or other activities near the fireplace.
Track lighting installed on the ceiling allows you to direct beams of light toward the mantel, seating area, or any decorative displays you want to highlight.
Consider pairing your task lighting with ambient lighting, such as dimmable recessed lights, for a balance between functionality and atmosphere.
If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Fireplace Ideas” board.
