Homework: Give your fireplace a makeover
A custom built fireplace mantle and cedar tongue and groove slats accent the walls and cathedral ceiling of the living room inside of the home of P.J. Campbell and Matthew Dimakos in Huntington on Sep. 18, 2014. Credit: Daniel Brennan
It's the focal point of many rooms, but sometimes a fireplace looks dull, drab or outdated. It might be too small, too big or too plain. But if you think a fireplace remodel is too extensive -- and expensive -- think again. There are ways to make your fireplace shine without spending a lot.
Boost Impact
Many fireplaces are just too bland. If they're stuck on a wall without a decent mantel, or look out of place, it's usually because there's nothing framing them to draw the eye. For example, a fireplace that's all by itself on a wall becomes instantly more interesting by the addition of bookcases or cabinetry on either side.
If you're handy, why not try tackling the project yourself? One of the easiest ways to perk up a fireplace is to use lauan plywood to create a faux mantel. By outlining the wall or brick around the fireplace with strips of 1-by-4 and attaching lauan plywood cut to resemble raised paneling, you can add stock molding and build out your fireplace mantel very inexpensively.
Easy Updates
If you like the brick look but want to tone down a dated red or other color, try whitewashing your fireplace with milk paint. Or, take a sample of the brick to a paint store for a paint recommendation. You'll retain the warmth of the brick without that dated sore-thumb red color.
Polished brass inserts also date your fireplace. Take them out and see what a difference it makes. If your mantel is stained to resemble oak but the color has yellowed over the years, give it a new, rich walnut stain for a fresh, updated look.
Mantel Magic
Flat-wall fireplaces always seem to be missing something. Adding a mantel helps break up all that empty space. Or, if the mantel you have is too small, bulk it up with a larger mantel shelf to give the fireplace more impact -- and more display space.
Tiny mantels or missing mantels have a way of making everything on the wall -- and in the room -- seem out of proportion and unbalanced. Subbing in a striking new model will make the room look much more homey and inviting.
