Design Insights: Fireplace Q&A with Seattle Architect Ashley Zaworska

For architect Ashley Zaworska, every detail counts when it comes to designing a home. 

With a background in both architecture and engineering in the Pacific Northwest, her style is defined by clean lines, functionality, and a keen eye for detail. 

We caught up with Ashley who shared her approach to designing homes that balance form and function, and offering insight into how fireplaces play a key feature in creating warm, inviting, timeless living spaces. 

Ashley’s Instagram showcases her signature style that celebrates natural materials, the harnessing of light, and depth achieved through textures and details. Images via @ashley_zaworska_architecture.

Hi Ashley! What’s the most important thing to consider when designing a fireplace into one of your projects?

When designing a fireplace, it’s important to consider how it will fit into the overall style and function of the space. Factors like heat output, installation, and placement all play a role, and these decisions often depend on the unique requirements of the home.

Whether the fireplace is meant to serve as a focal point or blend seamlessly into the design, it should enhance the space without overwhelming other important visual elements, like a stunning view or architectural feature.

In the case of our recent Alki Perch project, the fireplace was literally going to be in the center of the main gathering space, so we really wanted to make sure that it would be celebrated without also distracting from any other visual element in the space. This design prompt was unlike a traditional fireplace, which I feel automatically becomes a focal point and visual anchor in the room.

Alki Perch by Ashley Zaworska featuring Escea’s KS55 Mesh Gas Fireplace.

When should you start thinking about the fireplace in the design process?

When it comes to choosing a fireplace, it should be considered immediately, right from the start of the planning process. To treat it as an afterthought feels nonsensical to me. Fireplaces have a strong impact on both the visual appeal and the technical aspects of a space, so integrating them early ensures that they fit seamlessly into the overall design.

To treat a fireplace as an afterthought can disrupt the flow and functionality of the room. The positioning, size, and style of a fireplace need to be carefully coordinated with the architecture, layout, and even the heating needs of the home. Design integrity demands propriety in both the design process as well as the final physical form.

Do you have a go-to approach for choosing the right material for a fireplace surround? 

My top tip is to always consider your context. If you’re introducing a new material that hasn’t been used elsewhere in the home, ask yourself “why?”. For me, introducing new materials without reason feels like barging into a folk song with a tuba. Material palettes are like songs in that way - the best ones are self-referential, carefully considered, and harmonious. Of course, if you're going for contrast or a bold statement, that's a different story - but it should be intentional. When it comes to color, material, pattern, size, texture and dimensions, take a look around. Often, the right decision reveals itself when you're paying attention.

What fireplace trends are you noticing lately?

While there’s no denying the impact of trends in today’s design landscape, my personal design inspiration often comes from decades ago. If I can look at a photo that’s older than I am and think “I love that”, and still feel drawn to its elegance and craftsmanship, I know it has lasting appeal.

That said, many current trends like clean lines, natural materials, and minimalist surrounds are popular for good reason—they fit beautifully with modern interiors. However, I believe in blending the best of both worlds: incorporating timeless elements that feel grounded and enduring, while allowing room for modern touches that speak to the present moment. It’s all about striking a balance between what feels fresh and what will stand the test of time.

Explore Escea's Single Sided and See-through gas fireplace range.