Fireplaces have even moved out of the home into the backyard. With the trend toward outdoor kitchens and entertaining areas, fireplaces aren't just for the living room any more. In addition to a cozy way to take the chill off the evening while enjoying an outdoor get together, they are being used as pizza or tandoori ovens outside.

1. Choose a style that fits your home. For example, if you live in a prairie-style home, you want a fireplace that reflects that feeling, not a baroque masterpiece. Find a company that offers a range of options so you'll be assured of finding a fireplace that is the perfect complement for your home.

2. Pick the right material. Not only do stone surrounds offer natural beauty and add dimension to a space, they also are safer than wood or resin surrounds. In fact, updated fire codes in many communities restrict the use of some wood or resin surrounds. However, stone is expensive and can be hard to work with, requiring experience and special tools. A great alternative is Milestone Architectural Stone, made from hand cast, lightweight concrete. "Our product is 50 to 65 percent lighter in weight than standard cast or genuine stone with the natural veining which enhances the hand carved look our products are best known for," says company CEO Melody Saunders Brenna.

3. Set a budget. Having a number in mind before starting a project helps focus your options. Your contractor or designer can suggest ways to save money. For example, Brenna points out that less weight translates to savings in many ways, including reduced labor and shipping costs and quicker project completion time.

4. Make sure your fireplace can withstand the elements. Outdoor fireplaces require special considerations, since they're exposed to wind, rain and snow. "Milestone's composition of white Portland cement, natural sands and mineral pigments achieves every desired color and surface texture, while maintaining durable physical properties, often exceeding that of natural, cut building stones," says Brenna.