From classic through to contemporary, there's a raft of log burner ideas to choose from, but regardless of the way they look, the one thing they all have in common is their ability to create a warm and cosy space.
And, while it's common to associate log burner ideas with living rooms, they also suit most rooms within the home, be it an open plan kitchen diner or the desire to add an extra warm element to your bedroom.
With this in mind, we've gathered 26 log burner ideas to inspire you when choosing a log burning stove. From classic wood-burning stoves to sleek electric models perfect for modern spaces, these cosy home additions come in a wide array of designs, sizes, and price points.
1. Choose an on trend colour for your log burner
Keen for your home to stay up to date with modern paint trends? While black log burners are more common, choosing a coloured log burner ideas is a great way to inject current colours into your decor, as this blue log burner proves.
Bang on target with the Dulux Colours of the Year trio of blue shades, it can either be paired with creams and wood for a light coastal feel, or would even work well with a colour capping scheme too, using shades of blue on the walls and ceiling and adding a pop of vibrant pink or green for a hint of dopamine decor.
2. Make your log burner the centre of attention
When deciding where to locate your log burner, if it needs to become the focal point of your living room ideas, don't shy away from drawing attention to it. Instead of leaving it on a blank white wall, either go to town with your log burner hearth ideas, or as in this living room, add a painted or tiled back panel that stretches floor to ceiling.
Enhancing the symmetrical design of the room, it's also a good way of adding extra colour or shades into your living room decor. While this homeowner has opted for a mottled grey tile to complement the neutral colour scheme, other colours would work well too.
For a more rustic feel to your log burner backdrop, try these Marrakesh Terracotta Brick Dark Matt Tiles from The Baked Tile Company.
3. Use your log burner to warm up a dining room
If you have a dining room that's saved for more formal occasions, the chances are it's not used as much as other rooms in the house. This can lead to the space feeling less warm than others. A good solution is a log burner, which can be easily tucked in a corner and used as a secondary source of heat when entertaining in the winter months.
In this dining room, a wood pellet stove is heating up the dinining room, but, if you decide you need one post house renovation and don't have the option of installing a log burner to a flue or chimney, why not try a flueless heat source such as a bioethanol stove instead. I tested the Arada biotethanol stove as I live in an apartment and can't have a log burner. My verdict? A great solution when you can't have the real thing.
Shop for log burning stoves and their alternatives
A modern black woodburning stove that can also be adapted to multi-fuel
A modern bioethanol ceiling mounted stove for when a flue isn't an option
An Ecodesign woodburning stove with large glass viewing panel
4. Pair with modern wooden wall panelling ideas
For a cosy contemporary living room look, why not give your log burner idea a modern backdrop by installing it against a modern wooden living room wall panelling idea?
Pair it with a simple black slate log hearth idea, and then add some interesting visual contrast with an integrated log store to contain your rustic logs. It's the perfect marriage of cosy and contemporary that will keep your living room warm and welcoming all year round.
5. Add lights to your recessed fireplace
Although the flames from your log burner ideas won't fail to provide a glow on winter nights, it's not really enough to be considered a viable light source for your living room lighting.
Instead, make your fireplace another source of lighting in your room by installing spotlights within the roof of the fireplace. Just be sure to use an electrician to install them and make sure the lights you choose are suitable for use near heat.
6. Draw attention to the view with a corner log burner idea
Although corner log burner ideas are often used to transform unloved spaces into ones with purpose, there's no reason why they can't also draw attention to the very reason you chose to self build in a particular location.
Here, this simple cream log burner with tall narrow flue fits perfectly in the glazed corner of this living room, warming up the view on even the most blustery of days.
7. Heat your house with a large log burner
Although some log burners act as supplementary sources of heat, a large log burner can act as the primary heat source in today’s well-insulated homes. With airtight builds and energy-efficient designs, many homeowners opt for a log burning stove as a sustainable way to keep the entire house warm.
When deciding what size wood burner you need for a large space, opt for a substantial unit with a tall flue to make a statement. This not only ensures ample warmth during the colder months but also adds a touch of grandeur to lofty rooms.
But, make sure you don't oversize warns Phil Wood, UK managing director of Contura.
"When it comes to a wood burning stove, bigger is not always better. A stove that’s too powerful for your space will have you opening windows in midwinter, while one that’s too small won’t provide enough warmth," says Phil.
"As a general rule of thumb, a 5kW stove will heat an average living room of around 20m², while 6-7kW models are better suited to larger or open-plan spaces. If in doubt, speak to your local stove dealership or using an online calculator to work out the correct output for your home."
Phil is managing director of Contura Stoves (UK) Limited. He has worked in the fireplaces, fires and stoves industry since 1985.
8. Add a stylish integrated corner stove to your space
For open-plan spaces or rooms with an unconventional layout, a corner log burner might be the perfect solution. Tucking a stove into the corner of your room helps to maximise floor space and create a cosy, intimate nook that draws the eye.
Corner stove ideas are ideal for smaller rooms or spaces where a centrally placed unit simply isn't practical. The angled position allows warmth to radiate evenly throughout the room, while the stove itself can either blend into the background or become a standout feature depending on your choice of design and stove surround.
9. Add a mantle for extra decorative effect
Adding a mantelpiece above your log burner is a great way to display your favourite decorative pieces, or a perfect way of creating more of a fireplace feel if you've been weighing up open fires vs log burners.
Although if you have, it can help to know that choosing a log burner is more likely to give you an energy efficient and stylish solution to your home heating needs.
Chris Connick, content manager at Stovax and Gazco explains. "Old open fires are known for wasted energy. So, choosing a modern log burning stove, especially when opting for an Ecodesign stove, is a much more efficient choice.
"These models are energy-efficient and reduce emissions. In fact, an Ecodesign stove burns so cleanly they meet, and in many cases exceed, the environmental standards for emissions of the Ecodesign directive," says Chris.
"An Ecodesign stove, consumes approximately 70% less logs than an open fire and 20% less logs than an older non-ecodesign stove to produce the same heat output."
A similar design such as this is easy to recreate at home – just ensure the mantel is positioned at a safe distance of at least 450mm above the stove to prevent heat damage and consider installing a mantle heat shield to protect your items.
Chris is the Social Media & Digital Content Coordinator at Stovax Gazco. The company designs and manufactures wood-burning stoves and fireplaces, blending traditional and contemporary styles with efficient, eco-friendly technology.
10. Small log burning stoves are a great choice for compact spaces
If space is limited, that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. Compact log burners can be just as impactful as their larger counterparts. This modern corner setup demonstrates that a small stove can provide plenty of warmth without overwhelming a space.
To give a small freestanding log burner idea more presence, consider placing it on a concrete plinth or shelf. This eliminates the need for a traditional surround and provides a stylish space for storing logs.
11. Go for a bright, colourful log burner
'Homeowners now like to choose the colour of their stove to match their interior style, being no longer limited to the standard black colour,’ explains Jon Butterworth, Director at Arada Stoves.
"We suggest choosing a bold shade and adding a pop of colour with a brightly painted stove," he says. "Greens, reds and oranges make a real statement in a living room, and with an array of colours to choose from, homeowners can truly personalise their space and create a show-stopping interior."
12. Or opt for a traditional cream stove for country charm
For a timeless, cottage-inspired aesthetic, install a traditional cream coloured log burner. The simple, understated design of these stoves pairs beautifully with the flickering glow of flames, creating a cosy focal point that is ideal for country-style homes.
Whether paired with exposed brick, vintage beams, or floral textiles, a cream log burner will exude a welcoming, old-world feel that never goes out of style.
Try this Jotul F 100 ECO.2 LL SE Wood Burning Ecodesign Stove in Cream Enamel from Direct Stoves if a lighter colour palette suits your living room more.
13. Choose a log burner with built-in log storage
For those who love both style and functionality, a log burner with built-in log storage brings the best of both worlds. These designs not only keep your space organised but also suit homes that lean into a more earthy, rustic aesthetic.
Many stove models offer the choice of a built-in storage unit which can be incorporated under or to the side of a burner while log baskets are a charming addition to any living room. The practical element of having your logs close at hand, neatly stacked in dedicated slots, can also add a rustic, lived-in quality to your home.
14. Add some drama with a tall log burner flue
A tall log burner flue is an easy and stylish way to add some architectural interest to your home. Not only will a tall flue draw the eye upward in a room with high ceilings, but it can also create a sense of grandeur, making even compact spaces feel more open and airy.
Beyond its visual appeal, a tall flue also serves a practical purpose, improving the stove's draw for more efficient burning and better airflow. It can also help to 'zone' a room while maintaining an uninterrupted sightline, allowing a large space to feel more cohesive. .
15. Consider an electric log burner for a cheaper price
While not quite the same as a traditional wood-burning stove, electric log burners have come a long way in both design and function. They offer a budget-friendly alternative for those who want the aesthetic without the cost of log burner installation and maintenance.
Many modern electric stoves mimic the look and feel of real wood burners, offering a warm, inviting glow at a fraction of the price. These units are ideal for smaller spaces or rental properties, as they are an affordable and hassle free way to get the look you love.
This Be Modern Orba 2kW Matt Black Electric Stove from B&Q has all the appearance of a modern cylindrical log burner but is completely powered by electricity.
16. Install a log burner with smart controls
If you're keen on extending your smart home ideas to every part of your home, although they might not feel like a potential candidate, smart log burners are available if tech is your go to.
“The innovative Contura Connect 556 is the ideal stove for modern homes,” says Phil Wood. "Controlled via app, it's energy efficient and easy to use, while also giving homeowners up to date data on usage, he explains.
“The app provides stats and data to ensure optimal performance, whilst automatic regulation of air supply leads to optimal, cleaner, more efficient combustion and minimal emissions, making it more environmentally friendly and cleaner burning than any other traditional stove on the market."
That said, smart log burners don't necessarily mean they are are self-cleaning, so make sure you also know how to clean stove glass by hand.
17. For a contemporary space, inset your stove
Create a sleek, contemporary look by opting for an inset stove. These built-in log burners offer the clean lines of a gas fireplace while retaining the warmth and charm of a traditional wood burner.
Perfect for minimalist interiors, this design blends effortlessly into the wall, creating a modern focal point without overwhelming the space. It’s a smart option for homes looking to achieve a streamlined aesthetic.
18. Use a log burner in your oak frame home
Freestanding log burners offer flexibility in placement, allowing you to position them almost anywhere that complies with flue regulations. Position the stove at the heart of your living room to draw attention and establish a warm, inviting atmosphere.
With its open design, the freestanding burner pictured above in this oak frame home allows the flames to be admired from every angle, ensuring that every seat in the room has a view of the comforting glow.
19. Combine a log burner with a striking chimney breast
To create a fireplace that has real 'wow factor' consider pairing a log burner with a striking chimney breast. A statement chimney, like the one pictured here, can frame a log burner and enhances the rooms architectural interest.
If your home lacks an original chimney, it's possible to craft a faux chimney breast to create one-of-a-kind feature. Whether you choose a textured plaster finish, elegant stone cladding, or a smooth, modern look, a faux chimney can provide the perfect backdrop for your log burner.
20. Use a wide stove surround as a partial room divider
Open plan living spaces can be notoriously difficult to plan, especially when it is one large room with individual functions – such as cooking, reading and dining. But, a wide stove surround offers a perfect solution.
In this example, the log burner serves a dual purpose – not only does it warm the room, but it also divides the living area into distinct sections. With logs stacked on one side and shelves on the other, it’s both a stylish and functional way to organise a larger space, making it feel more intimate and cosy.
21. Create a warm atmosphere with a double-sided log burner
For open-plan layouts, you may also want to consider a double-sided log burner. Using a log burner idea that has two viewing panels works beautifully as a central feature between two areas, such as a dining room and a seating space, creating a seamless flow between them.
What's more, double-sided log burners allow for a more even heat distribution, making both spaces feel cosy and inviting. The sight of flickering flames from both sides also adds a stunning visual element that will enhance your home ambiance.
22. Build a brick inglenook in a contemporary space
Inglenook fireplaces aren’t just for traditional homes – they can bring a lot of charm to contemporary spaces too.
In this open plan kitchen, dining, and living area, the homeowners created a large, modern inglenook to house their log burner. The result is a striking feature that adds warmth and character to the sleek, modern surroundings. It’s the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern design.
23. Incorporate a stylish hearth
A well-chosen hearth can make all the difference to your log burner’s overall aesthetic. In this Scandi-inspired living room, a raised slate hearth perfectly complements the minimalist design of a small but powerful log burner. You could also place your stove on a simple stone plinth or pedestal to elevate the unit – both literally and figuratively.
Fireplace hearths are usually crafted from granite, marble, limestone, or slate. However, glass and concrete hearths are also rising in popularity, especially when paired with sleek, modern log burners.
24. Traditional style log burners look great in renovated homes
After carefully recapturing the characterful features and original fixtures in a period home, installing an ill-fitting or overtly modern stove would be a real shame. A traditional style log burner is the perfect way to enhance the heritage charm of these spaces. With their timeless designs, traditional stoves can complement features like exposed beams, original floorboards, and rustic tiling, adding warmth without compromising the authenticity of the space.
To maintain a truly period feel, there are many restored and reclaimed wood burners available to buy, each carrying its own sense of history. These stoves often come with intricate detailing and classic shapes that suit the character of older homes. Alternatively, new models that replicate the look of antique stoves offer the best of both worlds: the charm of a bygone era combined with modern technology.
25. A modern Scandi-inspired stove will add stylish curves to your decor
A contemporary log burner such as the Lagom stove by Arada is a simple way to bring that effortlessly chic Nordic style into your home.
Its sleek, rounded design offers a softer edge than traditional square stoves, making it perfect for open-plan living spaces or corners that need a touch of warmth.
26. Tile your stove surround for a bold statement
Much like tiling a fireplace, tiling your log burner surround is a fantastic way to create a striking focal point in a room. With a variety of tile options available – from classic subway tiles to intricate geometric patterns like those pictured above – you can easily customise a stove surround to reflect your personal style.
Bold, patterned tiles add an eye-catching contrast to the simplicity of many log burning stoves, while sleek, neutral-toned tiles are perfect for a modern, minimalist scheme that lets the flames take centre stage. For a more traditional or rustic feel, handmade or textured tiles offer tactile interest and charm.
Tiled surrounds also serve a practical purpose, protecting walls from heat and making the area around your stove easier to clean.
Keen to go ahead with adding a log burner idea to your wishlist? Make sure it's compliant with the log burning building regulations, says Chris Connick. When purchasing, ensure you are buying an Ecodesign stove.
"They’re much more efficient, and the levels of pollutants produced are considerably less than their older counterparts," he explains. "Ecodesign Plus stoves represent the future of wood burning. Supporting the Government’s Clean Air Strategy, these advanced stoves burn so cleanly they meet, and in many cases even exceed the latest air quality and efficiency targets."
And, after installing your wood burning stove make sure you learn the best techniques for lighting a log burner, and understand how to avoid cold plugs during a cold snap.
