Let’s Get Cozy: 5 Simple Fireplace Hearth Formulas to Try This Fall

# Why this guide exists Emily Henderson wrote this because she realized that styling a fireplace hearth can feel intimidating, especially if you inherit a non-working or awkwardly sized fireplace. She framed the problem with personal examples: growing up in Florida she never needed a functioning fireplace, then in Los Angeles she styled a non-operable wood-burning mantel, and now faces another mantel in her North Carolina home. That experience led her to create five practical "formulas" you can adapt to your situation.

# How to choose a formula Fireplaces come in multiple configurations: a raised hearth that spans the firebox, a long hearth that stretches across a wall, or modern gas/electric units with no hearth at all. Some formulas will work better depending on your physical setup and how you use the room. The point of the formulas is to give repeatable, low-brainwork approaches you can copy or tweak.

# Example formula you can use immediately Formula #1: Stool + Stool (or one single bench)

• What it is: Place two matching stools or a single bench in front of the hearth.
• What it does: Creates a polished focal point, adds casual seating, and fills visual space if your seating arrangement is pushed back.
• When to use it: Works well when you want a tidy, intentional look and need low seating or a place to rest feet. It's a simple way to elevate the hearth without adding tall or fussy decor.
• Visual references: Henderson points to rooms by Kate Marker Interiors (mantel by Francois & Co.), Michelle Boudreau Design, Finch Interior Design, and Vella Interiors as examples of how the formula reads across different styles.

• Not every formula fits every fireplace. Measure and visualize first to avoid purchasing items that overpower or underwhelm the space.
• Use low, horizontal pieces (like stools or benches) if you want to keep the sightline open and preserve the mantel as the focal point.
• Small stylistic touches can make non-working fireplaces feel curated rather than neglected (Henderson mentions andirons as a stylistic prop in a non-operable fireplace).

# Where this sits in Henderson's broader content This hearth guide is part of a series of styling "formula" posts aimed at simplifying common styling challenges. Earlier posts referenced include entryway formulas, bed styling formulas, and bookshelf styling formulas. The hearth formulas are meant to be similarly reproducible and inspirational.

• Homeowners with an unused or awkward fireplace who want low-effort, high-impact approaches.
• Renters or small-space dwellers looking for flexible, non-permanent styling ideas.

# Quick action steps

• Identify your hearth type (raised, full-width, no hearth).

• Measure for scale, then source two matching low pieces or a single bench to anchor the look.