A River Stone Fireplace Rocks!
The river stone fireplace is the quintessential image of the nostalgic hearth. Few, if any other types of stone hearths conjure up as many images of a time when life was simpler . . . . and seemingly
sweeter.
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River stone, or river rock, as it is commonly called, is the result of aeons of wear from fast moving wa- ter and glacial activity. With its scat- tering of indigo, puce and earthen colors, the irregular stones have unique textural nuances worn into their surfaces. When framing a flickering fire, the smooth and gently rounded curves of the stones sym- bolize . . . . at least in our minds . . . the idealized reality of an earlier, gentler time.

For many of us, the mere mention of a river stone fireplace makes us think of a massive, floor to ceiling hearth with a commanding presence. Indeed, their staggering size and monumentality enrapture us.
We often associate them with the focal point of a lodge, such as the one pictured below.

However, a river stone fireplace can also be downsized to fit in virtually any size home or room. The following examples demonstrate how that can be accomplished without sacrificing the look and feel of a cozy and nos- talgic hearth.

As with many varieties of stone, river stone can be manipulated by human hands to achieve a wide array of different looks in a wide array of applica- tions, such as the striking entrance wall below.
The fireplace on the left, below (top row), blends river stones with
fieldstone
for a stunning overall appearance. Below right (top row), the placement of stones on the edges of both the
mantel shelf and hearth, as well as a framed niche just above the mantel, gives this fireplace a very unique
and distinctive look. Bottom right, the wall of glass fram- ing this fireplace, made possible with a
direct vent
gas unit, provides a stunning panorama of the wooded landscape just beyond.
Stunning design pictured above by master stone artisan, Lew French.
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The following photos depict a variety of looks that are possible with a river rock surround. Note the varying styles, as well as the geographic differ- ences in stone coloration.
Outdoors, a river stone fireplace complements the landscape and provides a natural accompaniment to a wooded setting or retreat.
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More River Stone Fireplace Designs
The Fieldstone Fireplace - Outstanding In Its Field!
Favorite Field Stone Fireplace Designs - Fields Of Dreams!
The Slate Stone Fireplace - Veritably Versatile!
The Slate Fireplace - A Clean Slate For YOUR Special Fire Space!
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