Ideas for Remodeling a Brick Fireplace Near Windows

Jazz Up Windows

• Windows can include translucent coverings. If your fireplace is close to large windows whereby a visitor can see inside the home easily, consider covering the windows with large sections of stained glass or replace them with glass blocks. Giving the fireplace a new design might also require taking down window treatments, so you have an expanded exterior view from chairs near the fireplace.

Cover Old Brick

• New fireplace materials might be called for. For example, if your fireplace is built of red bricks with white mortar from the late 1970s, consider covering the fireplace with stacked stone or stone veneer. Very thin materials are available, in case you don't have a lot of room to expand fireplace dimensions. Stone veneer is available in two-inch thick sections, as one option.

Build Shelving

• Look for ways to include shelves beside the fireplace. If the windows are not flanking the fireplace, consider building shelves on each side of the fireplace. You can either install built-in mahogany shelves or shelves made of tile or stone-like materials. Books, plants or art objects should enhance the entire room. Don't build the shelves to store lots of items or the fireplace area will look crowded. Plan the items that will go on the shelves in detailed drawings before you begin construction of the shelves.

Beautify Wall Areas

• Areas above the mantel can be enhanced with artwork or mirrors. You can, for example, purchase a framed beveled mirror to hang directly above the fireplace over the mantel. Use appropriate masonry hardware to support the weight of a mirror or framed print. It's also possible to hang snow shoes or rowboat oars, for example, over a mantel area, especially if there is a high ceiling over your fireplace.

Fix Up the Mantel

• Mantel upgrades are sometimes in order. You may want to take down an old pine mantel that's been in place for years. If you hang large items on the wall above the old mantel, you might choose not to use a mantel at all. It's possible to remodel a mantel in place without taking it off the wall, too. Add crown molding around three sides of a three-inch thick wooden mantel, for example. Secure a flat section of wood on top of the old mantel's top plate, if the old mantel doesn't have a smooth surface. Display mugs, old tools or glass objects across the new mantel.

Match Windows with Area

• Window treatments could tie in with the fireplace. For example, you could install plantation oak blinds to match an oak mantel and place two chairs with oak trim near the fireplace. Tile on the window sills could match tile on the fireplace hearth. Purchase green marble tiles, as one option, to install on the window sills and fireplace hearth.