Fireplace Inspirations
Cold weather season is here and there’s only one thing I love about that and it is sitting in front of a warm and cozy fireplace. But if you find your fireplace is more of an eye sore then a starring attraction, this is the Design Diaries for you. I’m going to give a few tips that range in cost. All of this advice can transform your fireplace from drab and outdated to stunning and inviting. So let’s get going.
Paint It
Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to improve your fireplace. If your fireplace surround is a decent design, simply painting it a different color can drastically alter the look. You can go with any color and if you go to Pinterest and search “painted fireplace” you’ll see all kinds of options from white (probably the most common) to green, blue and black.
If your fireplace also has an old/ugly screen – you can remove that and put up a stand alone fireplace screen that won’t add a lot of cost to the project.
Finally, if you have a mantle you hate, that’s also an easy and not too-expensive fix.
For a good “how to” I’ve attached a link at the end of this blog that is a step-by-step process along with tools to purchase. This is probably your least expensive option and you get a lot of bang for your buck because the transformation is impactful!
Countertop Slab
When we bought our home, I hated the fireplace. Tile was slapped straight to the wall, without any dimensional depth to the facade of the fireplace and that is NEVER an ok thing to do!
I knew I wanted something modern with clean lines and the way my fireplace is situated, it was the perfect opportunity for a countertop slab. I designed mine with many mitered edges to create a modern transitional look and this is the final result.
A good countertop fabricator can do this for you if you provide the drawings. I had Galaxy Granite fabricate the fireplace design for me and I couldn’t have been happier with the results.
Option Three – Source Salvaged Fireplace Surrounds
I also like to source salvage fireplace surrounds. These can be pricey antique marble and stone surrounds imported from Europe, or they can be great bargain finds at a salvage yard. Whatever your budget entails. Finding a salvage mantel surround brings a lot of character into your home. You can also look on Etsy and Ebay for these or do a google search for “Salvaged Fireplace Surrounds” and you can find some really beautiful and unique items. To see how to measure for a new fireplace surround and how to remove your old one – check out the link at the end of the blog.
Tile It
Tile is a great way to bring in a fun, colorful, focal point with your fireplace. There are literally thousands of options and it truly makes your fireplace a work of art.
Sometimes you just have to start fresh.
Sometimes the fireplace just makes no sense. Perhaps where it is located or if it is super traditional but your taste leans modern, there are a plethora of reasons it may not work and sometimes, if budget allows, it’s just best to start completely over!
This client did a full renovation of their space so because they were already tearing up walls and reconfiguring the space, it made sense to move the fireplace. After lots of homework concerning the layout and the chimney situation, we moved this fireplace and gave it a whole new look complete with gorgeous Ann Sacks tile and a rectangular gas log firebox.
I hope this helps give you ideas on what you can do to upgrade your fireplace. If you are feeling stuck and undecided, book a Mini Consultation with us and we can design it for you! Below, please find the links I promised!
How to Remove an Old Fireplace Surround and Measure For a New One
