The Cost of Fireplace Surrounds and Feature Walls in 2025

When homeowners talk about Calgary Custom Home Renovations, fireplaces almost always come up. They’re not just about heat anymore — they’ve become the centerpiece of a living room. Whether it’s a full feature wall, a modern surround, or a rustic custom mantel, the fireplace sets the tone for the whole space.

In 2025, we’re seeing more and more people invest in fireplace upgrades, but costs can vary depending on design, materials, and how much custom work is involved. Let’s walk through the main elements — and I’ll share a recent project where we combined reclaimed wood, custom shelving, and a gas fireplace build to bring it all together.

Our Glendale Project – Reclaimed Wood and Gas Fireplace

One of our favorite projects this year was in Glendale. The homeowners wanted a feature wall that felt warm, timeless, and unique. We sourced a reclaimed wood beam for the mantel, paired it with matching floating shelves, and built out the wall to house a new gas fireplace.

With gas units, code requires the fireplace to sit about one foot out from the two surrounding walls. That extra depth gave us room to frame in shelving, hide electrical, and create symmetry around the unit. Once the reclaimed mantel went in, the whole room felt transformed — the perfect balance of rustic and modern.

The Cost of Fireplace Surrounds

This is the kind of detail you can’t buy off the shelf. Every mark and texture in that reclaimed wood told a story, and the custom build ensured it fit seamlessly into the space.

Cost for a build like this: Typically $12,000–$20,000, depending on finishes, cabinetry, and stone/tile choices.

Mantels and Shelving: Reclaimed vs. Manufactured

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  Reclaimed Wood: Adds character and individuality, usually starting around $1,200–$2,500 for a custom beam mantel depending on size and finish.

• Manufactured or Off-the-Shelf Mantels: Cost-effective at $500–$1,200, quicker to install, but lack the uniqueness of reclaimed.

Cabinetry: Custom vs. RTA

Fireplace feature walls often include cabinetry or built-ins for storage and display.

• Custom Cabinetry: Designed for your exact space, built to last, and creates a seamless look. Expect $5,000–$12,000+ depending on materials and design.

• RTA (Ready-to-Assemble): A budget-conscious option around $2,000–$5,000 for a typical setup, but customization is limited.

Building Out the Surround

Every feature wall starts with structure:

• Framing: $1,500–$3,500 depending on size and complexity.

• Plywood & Drywall: Plywood adds strength for heavier finishes (like stone), while drywall provides a smooth surface for paint or tile. Usually $2,000–$4,000 with labor.

• Painting: Adding $800–$1,500 depending on scope and finish.

Custom Paneling (Shiplap and More)

For homeowners looking for something different from stone or tile, custom paneling has become a go-to choice. Shiplap, tongue-and-groove planks, or even decorative millwork panels can transform a plain surround into a feature.

• Shiplap: A clean, modern-rustic look that works great painted white, black, or even stained wood.

• Tongue-and-Groove: Adds texture with tighter lines, perfect for a more traditional finish.

• Decorative Panels/Millwork: Great for modern or transitional spaces where you want detail without the heaviness of stone.

Cost for paneling: Usually $3,500–$8,000, depending on materials and height of the wall.

Finishes: Tile, Stone, and Hearths

• Tile Surrounds: Stylish and versatile, usually $3,500–$7,000 installed.

• Stone Surrounds: Natural or manufactured stone runs higher, $7,000–$15,000+.

• Hearths: Depending on material, $1,000–$3,500.

Heat and Fireplace Heights

Another big consideration is heat and height. Gas fireplaces put out consistent heat, which affects what can go above them — especially TVs. Generally, we recommend mounting a TV at least 12–18 inches above the top of the unit, or installing a mantel that helps deflect heat.

For mantels themselves, standard installation height is usually 54”–60” from the floor, though reclaimed wood beams can sometimes sit a little lower for a dramatic look. The key is balancing safety, comfort, and visual impact.

What to Expect in 2025

Overall, costs in Calgary for fireplace surrounds and feature walls range:

• Drywall + paint only: $5,000–$8,000

• Paneling (shiplap, tongue-and-groove, millwork): $7,000–$12,000

• Tile or manufactured stone surrounds: $8,000–$12,000

• Custom builds with reclaimed mantels, stone, and cabinetry: $12,000–$20,000+

It all comes down to your vision, your space, and your budget.

👉 Thinking about a fireplace update this year? Our team at LBProjects specializes in Calgary Home Renovations, from custom mantels and reclaimed wood builds to full feature walls. Whether you want rustic character or a sleek modern finish, we’ll help design and build a space that feels like the heart of your home.