Darren Palmer’s fireplace design tips and inspiration for homes

FeaturingMODE Double Sided Tall KS1150 Gas Fireplace
Project ByDarren Palmer
LocationSydney, Australia
Photographed byTom Ferguson

Darren Palmer is one of Australia’s most recognisable interior designers, known for his sophisticated yet approachable style. As a long-time judge on The Block Australia, he’s helped shape the tastes of millions of viewers and homeowners — bringing a designer’s eye to everything from floor plans to focal points. With a career rooted in crafting stylish, liveable spaces, Darren knows exactly how to make a fireplace do more than just heat a room.

So, when it came to renovating his own Bondi Beach home, Darren put that expertise into practice. He chose the MODE Double-Sided Tall KS1150 Gas Fireplace from Stoke as the hero of the layout — a striking feature that connects the living room and study while allowing natural light to flow through. The result? A clean, contemporary space that’s both functional and visually inviting.

tfphoto darren palmer portraits 0670 webres flames — *The MODE Double Sided Tall KS1150 Gas Fireplace features as a centerpiece of Darren’s family home.*

We caught up with Darren to get his expert take on how to design around a fireplace, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your fireplace as a true centrepiece. Here’s what he had to share.

1. What’s the key thing homeowners should consider when choosing a fireplace for their home?

Start with how you plan to use the room. Do you want the atmosphere and crackle of a real wood fire, or the convenience of gas — with flames at the touch of a button? Once you’ve decided, you can focus on the surround and the fuelbed. Some options are ultra-realistic, others are sculptural and modern — so it’s really about finding the right fit for your aesthetic.

2. What are some common mistakes people make when designing around a fireplace?

Going too small is a big one. If the space allows, go bold — a fireplace should be a feature. Give it space so people can gather around it. It should work both visually and practically, not be tucked away or treated as an afterthought.

3. What’s your advice for integrating a fireplace with other focal points, like a TV or artwork?

Choose a fireplace that gives you layout flexibility. You want the freedom to position a TV above or beside it, and enough design options to make the whole space or feature work together. Think about how everything will balance — the fireplace should ground the space but not compete with the other elements.

4. Can you share some of your favourite fireplace installs from recent seasons on The Block, and what made them stand out?

There have been so many great ones — it’s hard to pick! But honestly, I’ve never seen a fireplace with a real flame that didn’t make the room better. Whether it’s sleek and minimal or more traditional, it always adds interest, warmth, and a sense of home.

Browse some of the standout fireplace moments from The Block room reveals:

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