Ideas for Changing the Look of a Fireplace

Wood Surround

• Create a traditional look by extending the fireplace design with wood. Create built-in shelving and an elaborately adorned mantel to define the entire wall as a focal point in your space. Purchase a prefabricated mantel or have a unique design crafted by a woodworker or finish carpenter. Shelving should match in detail with coordinating crown molding and finishes. Paint both the mantel and shelving surround in the same hue for a unified look or add some dimension with color on the interior of the shelves. Highlight treasured collections or your home library in the shelving for a cozy and intimate design.

Extend to Ceiling

• For a simple weekend project which will add drama and interest to your fireplace, create an extension of the mantel with fiberboard. Cut fiberboard to match the width of your existing fireplace to create a mantel extension. Adhere the fiberboard to the wall and adorn with molding for a finished look. Paint the extension to match your existing mantel. This design works well with traditional fireplace designs which have existing wooden mantels. To ensure the extension is attached safely be sure to screw or nail it directly into the wall studs. Highlight the new addition by hanging an attractive framed art piece or graphic wall hanging.

Refinish With Tile

• A tile mosaic surround will give your fireplace an eclectic look. Ceramic or glass tiles work well in fireplace designs with the former proving a more cost effective choice. Choose multiple colors for a fun rainbow effect or varied hues in the same color family to create a fresh and casual design. For a simple and more versatile approach, lay one neutral color tile for a unified look. Gray, slate or white will coordinate with many wall colors and designs allowing you to change the look of your room without having to remodel your fireplace.