In the photo that you wisely provided, I can see that there is a 'frame' of wood coving that surrounds the laid bed of tile - this can be done in a 'reverse' fashion, allow the same 11/2 to 2" wide area with either hardwood or (if you can find it) nifty decorative tile sections to lay in. If you are placing a wood stove back onto the hearth, it will keep the chips and ash/coals on the tile area - by the way, even at the angle of view that is nice right pleasing tiles worth keeping. Horse