How to Decorate a Colonial Fireplace

Colonial style is known for both simplicity and utility. Unlike the decorative European styles, which feature elaborate molding and paneling without any practical use, Colonial design features simple paneling and molding utilized to hide cupboards and closets. In old Colonial homes, colors for rooms were distinctly bright when first applied, but oxidized over time.

Paneling
Cupboards
Molding
Paint
Colonial artifacts
Family portrait

Instructions

- 1
  Install paneling on the wall around the fireplace. If you have space, consider building in some cupboards into the paneling for authenticity.
- 2
  Line the paneling with molding. The most popular molding designs were plain (for poorer homes) and carved fruit, flowers and images of Aesop’s fables for wealthier homes.
- 3
  Paint the paneling a bright color. Common colors include deep yellow, minty green, cottage blue or bright red.
- 4
  Set some colonial artifacts such as antique bowls, vases or plates out on the mantle of the fireplace.
- 5
  Hang a family portrait over your mantle. Order a canvas print of a photo to give the picture a more antique feel.

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