I am in the process of updating my fireplace hearth as we also will install a gas fireplace insert.

The wall surrounding the fireplace is stone and we will not remove that. I've removed the old hearth and reduced the overhang to be a rectangle shape.

I'd like to use a material that is more contemporary but still looks great with the stone.

My two material ideas are to make the hearth of a sleek wood in a dark cherry or smoky mahogony stain. There is an offset mantle further down on the wall that could be updated with the same wood material to tie the look together.

My other thought is to use a 10x20 sleek tile with 1/8 grout line, and possible glass tile accent trim.

This is the fireplace that will go in: http://www.kingsmanind.com/files/file/152/idv33_36_100.pdf

Picture of the fireplace here: https://skydrive.live.com/redir.aspx?cid=772a390f7245b2ba&page=play&resid=772A390F7245B2BA!311&authkey=wBNqeH5xVWY%24