It’s cozy up by the fire season! Aside from providing warmth on cold nights, a fireplace naturally draws attention, making it a powerful design feature in any room. Whether it’s a functional fixture or an inoperable one, updating the fireplace and surrounding area can instantly elevate your living space’s style.
From mantel decor to surrounding accents, here are fireplace makeover tips to transform it into the stunning focal point it’s meant to be.
Refresh the Mantel with Layers of Decor
If your fireplace has a mantel, it’s a perfect canvas for layered decor. Start with a large anchor piece—like an oversized mirror, abstract artwork, or a dramatic clock. Then, add smaller items such as vases, candlesticks, or sculptural objects to build depth. Make sure you place the items at varying heights to create balance and visual interest. If you’re aiming for a more casual look, group items in threes for an organic, curated effect. You can also play with textures, materials, and finishes that complement your room’s design.
Add Shelving or Built-ins for Practical Storage and Style
Adding built-in shelves or cabinetry around the fireplace offers a functional and aesthetic boost. Custom cabinetry lets you store essentials while keeping clutter out of sight. Meanwhile, open shelving can display books, family photos, and decorative items. If you want a polished, classic vibe, go for a clean, symmetrical look, or mix it up for a more eclectic, modern touch. To ensure everything is cohesive, choose a finish or color for the shelving that either complements or contrasts with the fireplace.
Use Tile or Stone for a Fireplace Makeover
For those willing to take on a more significant project, updating the fireplace surround with tiles or stone can create a stunning impact. Classic options like marble or slate add sophistication, while patterned tiles bring a playful, personalized touch. You could also make a visually striking focal point with subway tiles, mosaic designs, or even herringbone patterns. If you want a more rustic feel, opt for stacked stone in neutral shades.
Paint the Brick for a Modern Twist
If you have an older brick fireplace, painting it can instantly modernize the look without extensive renovations. Light colors, like white or pastel gray, make the fireplace feel fresh and contemporary, while darker shades, like charcoal or navy, can add drama and glamour. For a soft, rustic appearance, try a whitewashed or limewashed finish that retains some of the brick’s original character. Painted brick is ideal for spaces with a modern or transitional style and creates a warm backdrop for any decor.
Add a Statement Screen for Elegance
A stylish fireplace screen doesn’t just serve a functional purpose—it’s an opportunity to add a decorative touch. Choose a screen in a metal finish that complements other room accents, like brass, bronze, or black iron. For a more contemporary look, consider a geometric or patterned screen, while classic screens with intricate details add a traditional flair. If your fireplace is non-operational, a screen can act as a decorative feature on its own, framing the fireplace without overwhelming the room.
Decorate Inside a Non-Functional Fireplace
Filling an empty firebox can add warmth and charm to fireplaces that are no longer in use, says a Winnipeg, MB, interior decorator. Stacked logs, arranged horizontally or vertically, give the illusion of functionality and add rustic charm. You might also fill the space with decorative candles for a cozy, ambient glow. Other options include placing a large plant or a sculptural item to make the empty space feel intentional and stylish. You can bring extra warmth and whimsy by adding twinkling string lights to these items.
Frame with Floating Shelves or Accent Chairs
To make your fireplace truly feel like the focal point, consider the items flanking it. Floating shelves on either side provide display space for decorative accents, while a pair of accent chairs can create a cozy seating nook. Choose chairs in a fabric and color that complements the room’s decor, and accessorize with throw pillows or a small side table to tie the look together. This seating arrangement invites people to sit and enjoy the warmth of the fireplace, making it a social center in your home.
A fireplace, whether functional or decorative, has the power to elevate a room’s style and ambiance. By experimenting with decor and surrounding elements, you can make it the standout feature your room deserves.
