How to Decorate a Room in a Townhouse With a Central Fireplace

Assessing the Area

• Before making any decorating decisions, assess the style of your central fireplace and the space surrounding it. Is your townhouse spare and ultra modern? If so, stick with sleek lines and splashes of bold, primary colors amidst the neutrals. Keep the area uncluttered and clean for the best effect. A townhouse that is more traditional -- soft colors, smaller rooms, deeper carpeting -- works well with plush couches and chairs; dark, heavier coffee tables and old-fashioned knickknacks. Once you've evaluated the basic style of the area, you can decorate to complement it.

Main Attraction

• A spectacular central fireplace makes the ideal main attraction for your townhouse living area. Use eye-catching colors -- deep reds, golds, vibrant blues -- as accents to draw attention. If there's room, add your television over it, or a colorful piece of art. If your space is more traditional, hang your family portrait there where everyone is sure to see. For central fireplaces that do not have spaces or mantels, try arranging vases, sculptures or plants nearby. Keep the rest of the room's decor neutral so there are no distractions.

In the Background

• To play down the central fireplace in your townhouse, use neutral colors and fewer decorations around it so that it blends into its surroundings. A nice, unobtrusive clock atop the mantel will look elegant without drawing the eye too much. Arrange your furniture around an alternate focal point, such as a television, a work of art or a coffee table. Use a variety of colors and designs in your focal area. Placing throw pillows with bright or deep colors and unique patterns is an inexpensive way to draw attention to a space.

Feng Shui

• Feng Shui attempts to direct the energy in your home in ways that are beneficial for your best health, comfort and success. To benefit from the central fireplace in your townhouse, consider adding a mirror over it rather than a television, photo or piece of art. According to "The Feng Shui Bible," this reflects the beneficial chi of the fire into the room. Depending on where your fireplace is situated you can try adding flat black or green accents, bowls filled with charcoal, tall plants or ornaments made of wood. Ensure the lighting in the room is sufficient and that you keep the space clean and uncluttered.