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I don't want marble or granite, so...???

16 years ago

I am having the most difficult time deciding what to use for the fireplace surround. I am not a fan of marble, granite or slate - I like porcelin tile but I am afraid of getting too busy. The room's decor is transitional so I am looking for something in between formal and casual. The website for the fireplace is below - we purchased the Deerfield Vintage Iron front (scroll to the bottom).

http://www.mendotahearth.com/mendota-fireplaces-db.asp?group=11

Here is the mantel I have. You can see there is a lot of detail.

http://www.michaelsandgiles.com/popup_image.php?pID=32

Can anyone post pictures of their "non marble, granite, slate" surround for me to see? Does anyone know of a website I could go to? TIA

Comment (1)

oruboris
16 years ago
I'm doing Mendottas, too. More in an arts and crafts style, and will use cultured stone on most-- just suits my style better than a finished looking stone.

Seems to me you've ruled out a really wide range of colors already. Maybe you could use a pretty basic sort of tile with just a couple delft, talavera, or even glass tiles as accents.

Maybe something like a cultured 'castle' stone-- semi-rough, but rectangular pieces would suit you... or soapstone. Wouldn't necessarily have to oil it in this context.
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