A fireplace is a beauty in itself, but mantel accessories can make it look even better. Whether your home already had a fireplace when you first moved in or you installed it yourself, adding mantel accessories helps you add your own personal touch. 

However, figuring out which mantel accessory best fits your design style can be difficult. You want to ensure that whatever you add to your mantel won’t clash with the rest of the room. For example, you should ensure that the accessories fit with the tone room and the paint of the fireplace. Luckily, there are a ton of accessories that go with any design style. 

Here are eight you can add to your own fireplace mantel:

 

Artwork

 

Art can liven up any room and also show your visitors the type of taste you have. You can place so many different variations of art on your mantel, and it is easy to find one that matches the style of the rest of the room. 

The artwork also doesn’t have to be a painting. It can be a framed print, a unique picture frame, or a piece of clay work as well. Whether you have an artistic side yourself and want to put your work on display, or you have a favorite artist that reflects your own personal style, there are so many options for the type of artwork you can place on your mantel to use as a mantel accessory. 

 

 

Books

 

Books are another type of mantel accessory, which are a fantastic addition to any home. They enrich our minds and offer stories that stay with us together. However, once you’ve finished a book and aren’t planning to read it again for a while, you may not know what to do with it. By placing it on your fireplace mantel, you are giving your book another purpose, and it can also add something special to your room.

People buy bookcases to show off their reading collection, but you can also do the same for your favorite book series on your mantel. How you pile them is up to your personal preference, and you can even make it look neater by adding some bookends to keep them in place. 

 

 

Decorative plates

 

Plates aren’t just for eating off of, and some of them can look too beautiful to put away in a cupboard. If you have some plates with a unique design that you love to look at, you can turn them into decorative plates and have them on display over your fireplace.

Decorative plates are collectibles for some people, so placing them on your mantel won’t be odd at all. You can even purchase some stands that are made specifically for plates and have them stand up for anyone in the room to see. Another option can include mounting them on the wall directly above your mantel for something a bit different. 

 

Candlesticks

 

Candles have many purposes. You can use them to add light to a dimly lit room or if there is ever a power outage. Candles can also offer a beautiful odor to your room if they are scented. Another purpose they have is also making your room look good. 

However, you need to find somewhere prominent to place candles on display to ensure everyone who walks into the room can see them. And your fireplace mantel is one of the greatest places you can put a candle, so they are seen. Candlesticks especially stand out because they are larger and taller and make a good addition to any room. 

 

 

Statues

 

Statues aren’t just large figures that have been dedicated to someone and are displayed in the town square. In fact, they can come in all shapes and sizes. This is why they are a great fireplace mantel accessory because you can choose one that is perfectly styled to match the rest of the room’s decor. 

A statue can be something personal that reflects you or your family, or it can be something completely different. Some people choose statues of their favorite literary characters, such as Mickey Mouse, or even something a bit more abstract. The choice is entirely up to you. 

 

 

Vases

 

A vase is an extremely useful item. Whenever you are given a bouquet of flowers as a gift, you need a vase to display them in. However, they can also be beautiful alone. A vase doesn’t have to be made out of plain glass, and it can actually come in lots of different colors and patterns that reflect your style. 

You can place your vase in the center of your mantel and let it stay plain without any flowers, or you can top it up with a bouquet every week or so. Either way, you can choose which color and design fits in with the rest of the room and change it at any time too. 

 

 

Clock

 

We all need to know the time at some point, so having a clock in your room isn’t a bad idea. Your fireplace is often the central part of the room, so placing a clock on top of the mantel allows you and your guests to check the time easily at any time. To top things off, clocks are beautiful items if they are designed well too. 

You can choose a small grandfather clock to sit on your mantel, or you can hang one on the wall above it. They can come in many different frames and designs as well, so choose one that matches your room’s aesthetic, and it will fit in perfectly.

 

Eclectic collection

 

If you enjoy collecting novelty items as one of your hobbies, there is no doubt you want to show them off to people who visit your home. A collection can become your pride, especially if it is complete. Placing it on your mantel, no matter what it is, can ensure people will see it, and you can spark up a discussion. 

From vintage coins to unique stamps, you can easily frame these items and place them above the mantel as a mantel accessory. They often come in neutral tones that match any aesthetic, and even if they don’t, you still have a reason to display them without people questioning why they don’t match. 

 

Everyone loves a fireplace. Not only do they warm you up during the colder months, but they are great to look at. They become a central part of the room and are great for home decor as they catch the eye of anyone who walks into it. However, there are so many different types of fireplaces available for installation it can be hard to choose the right one.

One of the best ways to help you decide which fireplace is the one for you is by matching it to your home decor and aesthetic. However, in order to do this, you need to consider a few things first: 

 

The size of the room

 

The first thing you need to consider when choosing a new fireplace for your home is the size of the room it’ll be installed in. Not everyone has space for an elegant new fireplace with a large stone surround, so you will need to work with what space you do have. 

Of course, if you have space, this opens you up to many more options, and you can move on to the next part of the considerations. However, if your room is on the smaller side, you can still consider other options, such as a portable or electric fireplace. 

 

The design of the house

 

The design of your house is just as important as the decor you have when considering the type of fireplace you want to install. For example, if you have a newly refurbished home with a modern appeal, you’ll want a fireplace that matches that. You don’t want something like red brick installed in a home with marble tabletops and white tiled flooring. 

Similarly, if you have a more rustic home, then you wouldn’t want a natural stone fireplace made out of marble. Of course, you can opt for anything you want, but you want something that reflects your home’s current design for the best look. 

 

An electric fireplace?

 

If you have a smaller room or want something that is easily customizable, you may want to consider an electric fireplace from the beginning. They come in many shapes and sizes, and you can easily find one that will match your home decor. 

Electric fireplaces have many benefits that sometimes outweigh the hassle of installing an entirely new wood-burning fireplace. They only need to be near an electrical outlet to turn on, and they provide just as much heat in the winter. Electric fireplaces are also easier to maintain, pose fewer risks, and are more environmentally friendly. 

 

 

Make sure it’s fit for purpose

 

When you’ve narrowed down the type of fireplace you want in your home, you need to consider what it will be used for. Some people install a fireplace in a room simply because they want more heat in the winter months. However, others install a fireplace purely for the aesthetics and how it can brighten up an area. 

If you want a new fireplace for its heat, you need to be sure you’re installing one that can heat up the desired area. For example, a small electric fireplace may not heat up an open space living and dining room but rather a bedroom. You may also want something grand like natural stone if you are focusing on the aesthetics. 

 

What features meet your demands?

 

A fireplace isn’t just the place where a fire is made; it actually comes with a wide range of other features. For example, you may want a mantel to display some of your favorite ornaments and family pictures. If you plan on using the fireplace every night, then you may need somewhere nearby to store your wood as well.

There are a lot of features to consider, and you need to be sure that the fireplace you choose can support the features you need. It is also a good idea to consider your budget and try not to go over it before the installation has even started. 

 

If unsure, consult a professional

There are so many things to consider when looking for a fireplace to match your home decor, and it can sometimes be a bit overwhelming, especially if you haven’t had a fireplace before. Luckily, tons of experts out there can help you and answer any of your questions. 

Brick Anew has a wide selection of fireplaces and accessories, and the experts of Brick Anew are always here to help. If you have a question about any of our products or what one will best fit into your home and match your home decor, all you have to do is get in touch. 

Looking to introduce a brick fireplace into your home but unsure of what design style to use? Try one of these unique brick fireplace brick ideas and get your fireplace to pull the entire room together. 

 

Keep it traditional

Who says you need to change anything at all? Sometimes a simple brick fireplace is all you need for your room, and it may fit perfectly with the rest of your room. All you need is some neutral brickwork without any special engravings or bright colors, and it will keep the area looking simple yet nice to look at. 

You may still want to add a few little spruces to the fireplace, but that is entirely up to you. You can base your decor on the mantel around what the rest of the room’s aesthetic looks like and change it if you ever change your furniture.

 

 

Add doors

Every brick fireplace needs doors, and this isn’t just because they are extremely beneficial to use. They also provide the area with an extra splash of style, especially when you’ve chosen doors that pull the entire room together. You can opt for different colors and designs depending on the aesthetic of your home.

Fireplace doors also help prevent any damage to the surrounding furniture and walls of the room. It can help ensure that you are getting the most heat and that the draft from the chimney doesn’t make your room too cold. 

 

 

Create a new surround

The surround stands out most when looking at your brick fireplace, so if you want to change up the area, you may want to start creating a new surround. Of course, it will need to consist of bricks, but you can always change it up by painting it with a new color or adding special engravings. 

You can either place layers on top of the bricks that are already there or you can start from scratch. However you choose to do it will depend on your funds and the location of the fireplace, but it isn’t often a difficult job, and it always looks great in the end. 

 

 

Install a floating mantel

Most mantels are drilled into the wall, and you can easily see the screws and stands showing up. However, a new trend with brick fireplaces is floating mantels which look like they are holding themselves up on their own. You don’t see any anchors or nails, and it gives people who look at it a unique illusion. 

A floating mantel is hung on the wall by drilling nails into the wall and corresponding holes into your mantel. They will slot in together and provide the look as if it’s standing on its own. You may need to get a professional to help with this. 

 

 

Keep it neutral

You can make changes to your brick fireplace without going too extreme. For example, you might not want to completely change the brick layout or bring in a bright color, but you can still make adjustments that give it a refreshed look. A good one is a warm dark gray color over the bricks that matches the rest of your room.

Touch up this design style with a white mantel and a fireplace door. It won’t be hard to update your room’s aesthetic if you ever change your mind and a neutral look appears quite modern as well.

 

 

Make it modern

We’ve already discussed some ways for modernizing a brick fireplace, but there are other ways to make it a bit more updated. Of course, you can paint it white, but the color grey is also a great way to make it look sleek and fit in with the rest of the furniture and decor in your room. 

You may also want to mix things up in another way but introduce different finishes, such as gloss on the bricks. You can also introduce some contemporary decor on the mantel for a more elegant look that makes the area stand out. 

 

 

Mix with wood

If you opt for a brick fireplace in your home, you don’t have to stick to just one material. While you may want to stick to pure brick for the surround and mantel, then that is fine. But after some time, you may want to give it a unique twist, which means adding another material into the mix and updating the look.

Wood is a fantastic material to incorporate into your brick fireplace, and the two materials perfectly complement each other. The best idea is to keep your surround as brick but then remove the original mantel and replace it with natural wood for extra warmth and texture. 

 

 

Make it graphic

If you’ve had a brick fireplace in your room for a long time, it may start looking out of date. This is especially the case if you’ve decided to change the rest of the room’s design to something a bit more modern. It will stand out when you don’t necessarily want it to, so it might need a bit of a graphic refresh. 

Some people may choose black paint for their brick fireplace, as it makes the area more of a bold statement piece than an out-of-place eyesore. However, depending on the color of your room, you may want to go for a different shade, such as navy blue.

 

 

Paint it solid white

You can’t ever go wrong with white, especially because it will go with almost any aesthetic. You can always change your room when you want, including painting the walls and buying new furniture without worrying about changing the fireplace. It will also brighten the room, especially if you usually get little natural sunlight.

You need to take a few simple steps when painting fireplace brick. Be sure to have the right equipment, such as buckets, paint, rollers, and brushes. You may also want to start with a primer before adding two coats of white and sealing it in with a top coat.

 

 

Display plants

If you’ve got a green thumb, then this brick fireplace design style is perfect for you. You may already have a ton of plants around your house, and you are looking for a new place to add some new ones. The mantel and next to the surround are great areas to add a bit of greenery to brighten up the room. 

You can stick with a theme of leafy greens or introduce some blooming flowers for a pop of color in the room. It is also trendy at the moment to introduce hanging plants and vines from the mantel for an extra unique look. 

 

 

Follow the ceiling line

Most of the time, a brick fireplace will end where the mantel starts. However, it doesn’t always have to, and you can actually keep the brickwork going all the way up the wall until it reaches the ceiling. It will basically outline where the chimney is and add a bit more attention to where the fireplace is. 

This look works especially well if you have a white wall backdrop because it will help it stand out. You will no longer have an ordinary fireplace, but instead, it will look unique, and it will have your guests in awe. 

 

 

Create an arch

Most of the time, a brick fireplace will be square. However, this is very simple and not unique at all. If you want something a little different, you can opt for a fireplace that has an arched outline. The top will be rounded, giving it an old-school look and making it stand out from any other fireplaces in your neighborhood.

This only really works if you are putting the fireplace in from scratch and not if you already have one in your home. The bricks will create an outline for the arch, and it will look especially beautiful if you have a fire lit inside of it. 

 

 

Anchor the fireplace

Who says a brick fireplace needs to be built into the wall? In today’s modern age, there are tons of different ways you can build and style your fireplace, and one of them is by anchoring it on the ceiling. This may sound a bit crazy, but it looks absolutely stunning once the look has been completed.

Instead of having the chimney at the end of the room by the wall, you have it in the middle of the room with bricks cascading from the ceiling. Your actual firepit is then placed on a brick square or rectangle directly under it. 

 

Pair black and white

You can opt to paint your brick fireplace white, or you can choose to paint it black. But why don’t you do both? Black and white are two shades that pair perfectly together, and when you introduce both to your fireplace, the room will look much more edgy and modern compared to standard red or brown brick. 

How you incorporate the two colors into a modern painted brick fireplace is up to you and your own personal style. You may want to paint half the bricks each shade, keep the mantel black and the surround white, or introduce different forms of decor to complement the fireplace. 

 

Minimalist brick fireplace

You don’t always have to dress up your brick fireplace. While some people like to add different decor pieces onto the mantel or around the surround, others like to keep it simpler and focus on the function of the fireplace. A minimalist design style is perfect if the rest of your room is pretty basic and you don’t want too much clutter.

Creating a minimalist brick fireplace is simple. All you have to do is keep the original design as it is. Don’t update the mantel with a different material or decorate it with anything else. Simply use it for its main function – building a fire.

 

 

White and navy

We’ve already discussed a black-and-white combination for your fireplace, but why not try something more daring? White and navy is actually a fantastic color match, and it works especially well if you already have furniture or decor with the same scheme in the rest of your room. 

You may want to whitewash the bricks on your fireplace and introduce a navy door and pieces of navy decor on the mantel. However, there are a lot of combinations you can choose from, so select the one that best works for you. But bare in mind this may only work if the rest of your room’s aesthetic matches it. 

 

Herringbone pattern

Many bricks on a brick fireplace are stacked in the typical fashion – one on top of the other. But this can be a bit boring, can’t it? While the Herringbone pattern is often used on flooring, you can also introduce it for your brick fireplace. It will provide a great look for your eyes and add a unique twist to a simple fireplace.

To introduce a Herringbone pattern, you will likely have to ask for it when the brick fireplace is originally being built. If not, you may have to completely remove the bricks and start again if you already have a fireplace.

 

Include distressed brick

The bricks on a brick fireplace are often smooth and one color, but they don’t have to be. Sometimes when the bricks look perfect, it can seem a little fake, so you may want to opt for bricks that are already a little bit distressed. This means they will have more dents within them, and you’ll have a mixture of different shades of black, gray, and maybe brown on top of it.

You can do this when you originally build the fireplace, or you can add the distressed look to a fireplace you have already built in your home. 

 

 

Make it industrial

Many homes come with a traditional brick fireplace, but if you’re looking to change things up, you can opt for an industrial style. It is exactly how it sounds. Instead of a warm and rustic feeling with red bricks, you’ll incorporate a range of different materials, such as raw wood and metal, into the surround and mantel. 

The mix of different materials provides your brick fireplace with a higher level of wow factor and will definitely catch the eye of anyone who comes into your home. You can choose where you want to introduce each material and where, and it will certainly look great in the end. 

 

Mixed-media decor

Most brick fireplaces are decorated with paintings above the mantel or pieces of decor around it. However, many people are starting to change it up and design a media wall fireplace. These typically include a television mounted on the wall above the mantel, but it can be different depending on individual style.

You may also want to introduce an electronic picture frame on the mantel, which acts like a slideshow of loving memories that your guests can look at. Or maybe you’ll opt for something a bit more simple, like a family portrait mounted on the wall. 

 

 

Make it double sided

We’ve already discussed an anchored fireplace in the middle of the room, but you can also place a double-sided brick fireplace in the center as well. This time, instead of it cascading from the ceiling, it will act as another wall and break up the room. There will be a hole in the middle, which is where the fireplace is. 

You can use this in the middle of a living and dining room. Each time you light a fire, you will be able to see and feel it on either side. It is quite impressive and unique to your standard fireplace. 

 

 

Go matte black

Sometimes a simple black is all you need for your fireplace brick. In fact, you may want to give it a bit more of a gothic approach by choosing a matte paint. It makes your brick fireplace stand out a little bit more than before, and it can complement the rest of your room’s decor and furniture, depending on your color scheme.

The matte black color on the bricks pairs perfectly with white walls, a wide range of pot plants scattered across the room, and copper accents. And the best part? Black goes with almost everything, so you can update your room anytime you desire.

 

 

Go with the faux

Do you have a space in your room where you want to add a fireplace but don’t need the extra heat or don’t have the funds to build the real thing? Why not build a faux fireplace? You can use bricks to make it look like you have a fireplace in your home, but you won’t need to go the extra lengths to build a chimney. 

You can use brick to create a fake surround and mantel, and you can even use faux brick to save on costs even further. Many people will think you have a fireplace to get cozy next to, but it will all be an illusion. We won’t tell if you don’t!

 

Decorate a non-working fireplace

Maybe you have a fireplace, but you don’t have any need for it, or it stopped working a long time ago. These can become a bit of an eyesore, but not if you dress them up with a bit of extra style. For example, if you often have bonfires or BBQs outside, you can store all your firewood in the fireplace and keep it on display.

Other ideas for a non-working fireplace may be placing all your plants in the middle and letting them grow out of it or a miniature statue to make the area pop. There are a ton of opportunities to make the area look beautiful, you just need to find the right one for your home. 

 

 

Add some signage

Nothing makes a home more than some inspirational signs. And what better place to hang them up than by your brick fireplace? Instead of placing a piece of art or television above your mantel, pick up a sign with a quote representing who you are and put it up for everyone in the room to see.

You can either mount the sign on your wall above the mantel, or you can simply lean it against the wall by placing it on the mantel. You may want one, two, or ten signs. The option is entirely up to you. 

 

 

Have curved elements

Far too often, people rely on square or rectangular shapes in their living rooms. Of course, it is typical of the furniture, but it doesn’t really stand out, and it looks the same as every other house in your neighborhood. However, you can mix things up if you add some curved elements to your fireplace to balance the room out. 

You can either set up a curved brick fireplace, as we have already mentioned, or you can introduce a curved fireplace screen for extra visual elements. There is also the option of rounded decor, drawing people straight to it as they enter the room.

 

 

Celebrate original features

Your brick fireplace is always great as the standout feature of a room. And most of the time it comes with a lot of history, especially if it has been there for a while. Therefore why change anything at all? Instead, adapt the rest of the furniture and colors of the room to match your fireplace.

If your brick fireplace is red, choose furniture that compliments this color, such as bronze and neutral tones. You also don’t want to draw too much attention to any other part of the room and keep the main focus on the fireplace. 

A fireplace, whether brick or stone, is almost always central to the room. It often catches the attention of guests who walk into the room, and it can become a topic of conversation for those who want one. But how do you ensure your fireplace looks bright and beautiful? How do you guarantee it’ll draw people in when they visit your home?

The answer to these questions is simple – the fireplace mantel. The mantel may not be the biggest part of a fireplace, but it certainly adds a lot of charm. You can choose the material, color, and decor that sits on top of it.

Unsure of how to decorate your own area? Here are ten unique fireplace mantel ideas you can use for inspiration:

 

A perfectly painted mantel

 

If you already have a mantel but it’s been around for some time, it may need a bit of a refresh. It can seem like a lot of time and effort to go out and purchase a brand-new fireplace mantel, so you can save a lot of time by simply painting the mantel you already have.

Painting a fireplace mantel takes little to no time and can be done exceptionally easily when you use one of Brick Anew’s paint sets. They include everything you need for a perfectly painted mantel, from the brushes and rollers to paint and finishes. You just need to choose the color you want for your fireplace mantel, and you’ll see how a fresh coat can liven up your entire room. 

 

 

Overlap the decor

 

Many people shy away when adding decor to their fireplace mantel. They often add one or two items because they don’t think they will match or are simply unsure how to decorate correctly. However, while minimal is sometimes good, you can also make your mantel look great by going the other way. 

Decor doesn’t need to sit side by side, but you can rather overlap it. You may think it’ll provide a cluttered look – but it really doesn’t. Instead, your decor looks perfectly organized, and you can still see what each piece is. 

 

 

Modernize it

 

While some people like mantels that match their mid-century fireplaces, most are moving towards a more modern look. This includes a mantel that is often made out of metal or painted a sleek white or black if it is made out of wood. 

What you put on your mantel for a modern look can often depend on the aesthetic of your room. If your room is blue and white, only add decor matching these colors. The type of decor that will really stand out with this theme includes pieces of artwork, candles, and a few picture frames. 

 

 

Involve rustic features

 

A rustic aesthetic can make a room look warm and inviting, but you need to get the mantel decoration done just right. You don’t want to add too much or too little, but just the perfect balance of decor pieces that will pique a person’s interest as they enter the room.

Don’t add anything too big to your fireplace mantel, but just a few small pieces, such as a pot plant or succulent or a mini teddy bear you’ve had since you were little. Place each piece evenly spaced out, and you’ll be amazed at how good your mantel will look. 

 

 

Contrasting colors

 

Most people want to add colors that match their room when decorating a fireplace mantel, but you can actually get away with a great look when you change this to contrasting colors. To truly draw attention to your fireplace, you will have to either paint your mantel or add decor that contrasts the colors in the rest of your room. 

For example, if the main color of your room is blue, then you can paint your mantel red or add a big bouquet of red roses sitting front and center above it. It provides a unique and cohesive look, and you’ll certainly have guests checking out your fireplace when they walk into the room. 

 

 

Go for a vintage design

 

We’ve already mentioned a modern look that most people go for, but if you like something a bit more traditional, you may want to opt for a vintage design. This may include a stone fireplace mantel built into the wall with hand-carved patterns and decor pieces you have found from vintage and thrift shops.

The color scheme for a vintage design can be open to interpretation, but we recommend white, bronze, and maybe some different brown shades. It will make your room seem more elegant, and you’ll feel like royalty. 

 

 

Put a TV above it

 

Another way to modernize your fireplace by decorating your mantel is by adding a TV above the area. As we’ve already said, your fireplace is central in most rooms, and so are televisions. When you combine the two, you have a space where you can catch up on your favorite shows and stay warm from a fire.

There are two ways you can add a TV above your fireplace mantel. You can either place the television on a stand and have it directly on the mantel or mount it right above the mantel onto the wall. 

 

 

Add seasonality

 

There are four seasons in the year, which means there are four opportunities for you to decorate your fireplace mantel. If you’re someone who gets bored easily, then you may want to decorate your fireplace based on the time of the year. 

For example, during the fall season, you can add some plastic pumpkins, orange buntings, fake paper leaves, and more around the fireplace mantel. Once you’ve gotten past Halloween and even Thanksgiving, you can then start to introduce more Christmassy decorations. This will go on for the whole year, including spring and summer. 

 

 

Match it to the fireplace door

 

A fireplace door has many fantastic benefits, from keeping out the embers of a fire and blocking off the draft from your chimney. However, it can often seem a bit out of place when it doesn’t match the rest of your fireplace. That’s why getting one that matches your mantel is a good idea.

If you already have a fireplace door, you can just paint your mantel or add decor that fits in with the color and design of the door. However, if you are already happy with your mantel, you can purchase a fireplace door that matches the mantel. Brick Anew has a fantastic collection of fireplace doors for you to choose from, and there’s no doubt you’ll find one that goes perfectly with your mantel. 

 

 

Introduce some memories

 

Nostalgia is one of the best feelings in the world, and it can be triggered when you think about some of your best memories. But how do you ensure these memories get triggered on a regular basis? You need to put photos and mementos from those times to make you remember how good those moments were.

By placing frames and images on your fireplace mantel, there will always be a constant reminder of your memories. It is also a great discussion starter when you have visitors visiting your home.

 

The perfect stone fireplace will make you feel welcome in the room, and it is a beautiful sight to look at. But how do you choose a stone fireplace that provides this feeling to a room?

With so many options out there, it can be difficult to make a decision. However, we’re making it easier for you by offering 20 unique and welcoming stone fireplace ideas. 

 

Mix things up with a wooden mantel

 

Stone and wood? How could it even be? It may sound like a duo that shouldn’t ever be paired, but when you see the two together, you may start to disagree with that statement. While you may not want to intertwine them together too much, a subtle combination can make the two materials stand out. 

With stone making up most of your fireplace and the wooden mantel only taking up a little bit of the space, it adds a little something special and is a great stone fireplace idea that will catch the eye of any visitors. Still skeptical? Have a look at the two together for yourself and see how welcoming they are!

 

 

Match your room to the stone fireplace

 

There’s nothing better than a well-designed room. From the color scheme to the decor, you can’t ever feel uncomfortable sitting in a perfectly matched room. So, if you’re thinking about what kind of stone fireplace you want in your home, you may want to start by looking at the aesthetic of the room you’ll be installing it in.

For example, if your room is full of neutral grays, blacks, and white, then you may want to introduce a stone fireplace with a whitewash with a black or gray mantel. On the other hand, if your room is a bit more rustic with brown and orange tones, you would be better off opting for a fireplace with natural stone.

 

 

 

Paint over your stone fireplace with a natural color

 

Sometimes you move into a home that already has a stone fireplace built into it. This is great because it saves you a lot of time and money trying to install a brand-new one. However, the original fireplace rarely matches your aesthetic and what you want. This is when you may want to consider updating it with a fresh coat of paint. 

Painting stone isn’t hard, and it also takes little to no time. With Brick Anew’s Stone Fireplace Paint Kit, you have everything you need to ensure it is completed to perfection. You only need to choose the color or shade to paint with, and then you’ll have all the tools you need to complete the job with ease. 

 

 

Introduce some bright decor

 

Another stone fireplace idea that can update an already-installed stone fireplace is to add some pieces of decor to the mantel. If you like all things bright and colorful, then you can have some fun when you choose what pieces you want to introduce to the area. From blue to hot pink, it can add some personality to the room and make people feel welcome when they see the fireplace. 

There are also a ton of different decor pieces you can choose from. Flower vases are a fantastic addition and can come in different shapes and sizes. You may also want to opt for bright picture frames or special knick-knacks you have collected over the years. 

 

Brighten up the room with some white

 

You can never go wrong with white. It is a shade that goes with any other color and can pull together a room perfectly. If you like to change your room’s aesthetic often, you might want to opt for a white stone fireplace because then you know it’ll always match. 

On top of that, the color white brightens up any room, especially if you introduce some natural light through open windows. This can lift anyone’s mood and makes the room seem more inviting for you and any visitors. White has a wide range of benefits, and you can easily keep it clean with Brick Anew’s Brick and Stone Fireplace Cleaner. 

 

 

Turn your stone fireplace into a media fireplace with a TV

 

Many people place a stone fireplace in the center of a room, which is the same for televisions. People like to sit around and watch their favorite movies and tv series while also having the warmth of a burning fire on them. However, how can you have both at the same time? There’s a simple solution for that: a media fireplace.

This is one of those stone fireplace ideas that you have to try. A media fireplace is a basic concept. Your stone fireplace is installed as usual, but you add a TV above the mantel. Everything is central, and it makes the room seem much more homely. It makes you want to go and sit near the area, and people may visit just to check it out. 

 

 

Natural stone? Paint the mantel matte black

 

Natural stone fireplaces come with elements of beauty, but sometimes they can seem a little bland and outdated. You may already have one built in your home and looking for a way to spruce the area up without a drastic change. Luckily, a mantel is a fantastic way to make a subtle improvement.

Natural stone often comes in browns and grays, so black is the perfect shade to match it. Natural stone also doesn’t shine very often unless it has a glossy layer added to it, so a matte black mantel makes a great combination. It may not seem like a lot, but it will definitely make a noticeable difference to your room and how you feel entering it. 

 

Floor-to-ceiling for something different

 

When you think of a stone fireplace, what comes to mind? Often it is a simple set-up that starts halfway down the wall and reaches the floor. However, there are a ton of variations that are much different than this, and it can make your room seem more unique than any other. One of these variations is a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace that goes all the way up the wall. 

These great fireplaces display the stone far more than any other, introducing something different to your room. It may take a bit longer to install and dig into your budget a bit more, but it is certainly worth it in the long run. A floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace is also harder to cover up, so if you want one, you will need to think hard about whether you want to go through with it. 

 

 

You can’t go wrong with gray

 

Many people opt for black and white as the base shade for their stone fireplace, but many people sleep on gray. It is actually a fantastic shade for modernizing stone fireplaces and adding an elegant look to any room. So, why not install or update a stone fireplace in your room with a shade of gray and watch how it transforms?

Of course, many stones come in the color gray, but you can also paint over other colors using the Brick-Anew Paint Kit. Depending on how light you want the gray to be, you may need to add a layer of white first to darker bricks. 

 

 

Bring in a black-and-white theme

 

Many things come in black and white. Old movies, balls, Oreos, and much more. The two colors are a match made in heaven. But what do they go even better with? Stone fireplaces! Similar to updating your area with a shade of gray, these two colors also add a sleek and modern element to your room and can pair perfectly with different types of decor.

How you incorporate the two colors is entirely up to you. You may want to have a whitewashed stone with a black mantel or vice versa. Either way, it will lift up the aesthetic of your room, and many guests will no doubt drop their jaws with awe when they see what you’ve done. 

 

Show off with a large mirror

 

Like a TV, mirrors are a central feature of many rooms. They help people stay up to date on how they look, and they also make the area look much more modern and appealing. Due to this, it is a great idea to add a large mirror to the top of a mantel above your stone fireplace. 

Out of all the stone fireplace ideas, this one is slightly more subtle, but it can also make a big difference if you know how to match the mirror. Matching the mirror’s frame to the mantel can make the entire setup look nicely put together. And to top things off? You can always check yourself out as you walk by. 

 

 

Try unique, different-colored stones 

 

Many people seem to believe that all the stones on a fireplace must be the same color. However, sometimes installing different colored stones can add a unique edge to the area and make people ask questions about what you did to make it look like that. It often works well with natural stones, but you can also paint them different colors.

The colors you choose are best depending on the aesthetic of your room. You can go for black and white if it matches your walls and furniture. Or you can opt for something a little more natural if you have warm tones spread across the room.

 

 

Keep things simple with a white mantel

 

We’ve already spoken about painting your stone fireplace white, but sometimes you don’t need to go all out. If you already have gray or black stone, you can introduce a pop of white by simply installing a new mantel or painting the one you already have white. 

Just like if you were to paint your mantel matte black or add a new material such as wood, it only makes a subtle change. However, the change is big enough for people to notice and can make your room seem much more inviting. 

 

 

Add trim to your stone fireplace

 

Most stone fireplaces simply end where the stone does and are paired with a mantel shelf. However, while they aren’t as common, you can also get stone fireplaces that are built with a trim. This acts like a border and is best when it matches your mantel. 

The material your trim is often made out of wood or some form of metal. If your mantel is wooden, then you’ll want a wooden trim. And you will also want the color of your trim to be the same as your mantel. You are then left with a stone fireplace that seems much neater, and separating the area from the rest of the room is easier. 

 

Opt for a cozy and rustic aesthetic

 

Nothing says inviting more than warm and rustic. If you’re building your stone fireplace from scratch, there are a lot of different aspects you can incorporate to build this aesthetic. One of the main things is natural, uneven stones. You don’t want it to seem neat but rather like it is something you’d see out in the outdoors. 

When it comes to the mantel, you’ll probably want something wooden that has been lightly stained with the shade of your choice. What you put on the mantel is up to you, but for a perfectly rustic approach, you’ll want to maybe stack a few books that make the room feel cozy and comforting. 

 

 

A double-sided fireplace that stands out

 

We’ve already mentioned a ceiling-to-floor stone fireplace as one of the many variations out there, but another one is a double-sided fireplace. These are particularly great when you have a living room that opens straight into the dining room or kitchen. It allows you to feel the heat of the fire from both sides, and it offers a modern design. 

The fireplace looks kind of like a column in the center of the room, with the firepit in a hole that can be seen from both sides. The stone will surround the entire four walls of the column. It doesn’t have to be ceiling-to-floor, but double-sided fireplaces often are. 

 

Introduce a festive theme

 

There are so many holidays year-round, which means many opportunities to spruce up your stone fireplace with a festive theme. People love walking into a home that matches the closest holiday, and it can make any room seem much more cozy and welcoming.

Some examples of festive themes include wreaths and tinsel on and around the mantel during Christmas and paper turkeys and buntings when Thanksgiving comes around. You can also match the theme to the seasons, such as a snowy look in winter or lots of flowers when spring has sprung. How you choose to decorate is up to you, and you can even introduce your own personal styling into the themes.

 

 

Put together a farmhouse look

 

A farmhouse aesthetic is extremely popular when people are modernizing stone fireplaces because it adds a perfect contrast to the built-in material. A wooden mantel is a great place to start, but you really start to introduce the farmhouse look when you add a small wicker basket, feathers, leaves, and other earthy tones. 

There are a ton of different ways you can incorporate a farmhouse style into your stone fireplace, and what you choose to add can all come down to personal preference. However, you can’t go wrong with natural, warm colors (and possibly a nice bunting to hang on the mantel).

 

Place the stone fireplace in between shelves

 

As we’ve already mentioned, a stone fireplace is a central part of a room. But what do you put on either side of the wall when you’ve installed the fireplace? Shelves are a great addition to any wall, but they also add extra storage to your room as well. And you can never go wrong with extra storage. 

If you like this stone fireplace idea, you will probably want to install shelves with the same material and color as your mantel. It will make the two sides of the walls match the fireplace perfectly, and it will definitely be a sight to look at whenever you enter the room. 

 

 

Show off your memories on the mantel

 

Almost every stone fireplace has a mantel, but what do you want to put on top of it? You can never go wrong with a collection of picture frames and photos. They are a fantastic way to show off your memories with family and friends, and they can add an element of nostalgia each time you walk past them.

Having personal items and memories on your mantel can make your room seem much more inviting and homely, which is the main aim of any stone fireplace. You can change them whenever you want and add new photos and frames as you develop new memories.

 

 

A fireplace is the central feature of any living space and it should be treated as the star of the show. What better way to make the fireplace pop than with a great color scheme? When you use color on a key feature in the room, it ties the scheme of the rest of the place together, giving your home the sophistication you’re looking for while echoing your personal style and taste. 

In this post, we’re going to look at some great fireplace color ideas that will transform any room into a space you can be proud of. There are so many ways to accent your fireplace so that it becomes a talking point of the room, from mantel accents to painting the chimney a different color. The key is to have fun with it and let your style shine through. Check out our fireplace color ideas here! 

 

White-painted mantel

 

If you want to brighten up a space and take full advantage of a room’s natural light, a white color scheme is definitely the way to go. White has a calming effect on the rest of the room and creates a warm and cozy atmosphere when lit, contrasting with the orange and yellow flames. 

Painting the mantel white invites the opportunity to play with contrasting and complementary colors alike. It’s also a great way to highlight decorative pieces that sit on top of the mantel like family photos, ornaments, or artwork. 

Brick Anew’s Frosted Sunshine paint kit is a fantastic example of the colors you can use in a white-driven design. The scheme naturally reflects more light, making the room look brighter and adding a calming effect – perfect for a relaxed space like a lounge area. 

 

 

Color matching

 

Matching the fireplace color to another key feature of the room is another great way to decide on a color scheme for the fireplace. For schemes such as Brick Anew’s Misty Harbor, consider the colors that feature in the rest of the room. Misty Harbor combines light to medium gray with cream undertones, which means it won’t overpower the space but will invite the room’s attention. 

Brick Fireplace Paint Kit 5.0 (158 reviews) A versatile kit for painting brick fireplaces a fresh and modern look at economical prices From $219 View product

Larger items such as doors, rugs, and sofas make spectacular contrasting or matching points for the fireplace or just the mantel. If you want your fireplace to pop, avoid color-matching it with the walls and the floors. This will make it fade into the rest of the room due to a lack of contrast. 

For brighter colors, or matt black consider matching the color to smaller items that accent the same color. Think about pillows, artworks, indoor plants, or decorative artifacts that contain colors you love. When you take the plunge and paint your fireplace to match these items, you’ll be amazed at how color coordination can liven up a room.

 

 

Pastel Green and neutral tones

 

House plants are becoming the new pets of the home, and loads of people are bringing more and more greenery indoors. The dark green of leaves works well in spaces that have a neutral color scheme in the home. If you’re someone who has a lot of plants in your space, you can go one of two ways when you choose a fireplace color. 

A color scheme like Twilight Taupe will work well in a space with a lot of greenery as colors such as tans, browns, and beiges almost mimic the plants’ natural environments. It’s a great way to invite nature and serenity into the home. 

When a feature piece of a room is a certain color, the human eye is naturally drawn to other items in the room that are similar or the same colors. Using a toned-down pastel green will, therefore, highlight the plants in your living space – perfect for anyone who sees themselves as a plant parent! 

 

 

Sleek matte black

 

For those who love a sleek, modern flair in their homes, a matte back paint color on your fireplace will bring a dramatic dynamic to the room. Make sure you avoid any glossy effects when picking out your black paint. You want the fireplace to be a bold feature, but gloss can make the space look tacky. 

Matte black is a great way to make the fireplace the focal point of the room and works especially well when contrasted with light, neutral-colored walls. It is also especially cozy when there is a fire burning. If you go with a sleek matte black scheme, try to limit incorporating other colors into the feature. This can lead to overly-complicated color coordination which may detract from the intended atmosphere of the room. 

 

 

Brightly painted mantel

 

Are you all about those beautiful, bright colors that emanate joy and fun into a space? Own it by painting your mantel a funky, bright color. When you opt for a bright color scheme, you have full permission to experiment and go a little crazy with featuring colors. 

Any interior designer will recommend using a color wheel to make sure your chosen color ties in well with the rest of the room. For example, if you have artwork in the space that has reds, yellows, burnt oranges, or even a deep cerise, be bold and try one of these out as fireplace colors. If you’re seeking inspiration, check out other pictures of painted fireplaces that go big on bright colors and see if they would work for you and your style. 

 

 

 

Calming blue

 

Using blue as a fireplace color or in your chimney painting ideas is an excellent play on color contrast. According to the color wheel, blue and orange are complementary colors, which means blue paint works well on a fireplace, as it complements the color of the flames when lit. This enhances the fireplace as a feature. 

However, in the warmer months, blue also creates a calming feeling in the room. According to color psychology, blue is the color of serenity and relaxation which many people love to have in their living spaces. A home should be a place where you can feel safe and calm and incorporating blue into the space can have this effect. What better way to highlight a color than painting your fireplace in it? 

 

 

Which scheme appeals to you? 

At the end of the day, the fireplace color you choose has to reflect your style. More importantly, the color has to make you happy! If you’re really stuck or simply overwhelmed with fireplace color ideas, look no further than Brick Anew and our fireplace products. We’re more than happy to offer expert advice and help to bring all of your amazing ideas together. The most important thing to remember is interior decorating needs to be fun and your projects should always be true to you. 

Is your fireplace looking a little out of date? Has it been a while since you’ve given it a fresh new look? Well, maybe now is the time to do so. While a fireplace is a great addition to any room, it can’t always keep up with the changes you make throughout the years. That’s why every now and again, you may need to give it a little update to match your aesthetic. 

The great thing about updating a fireplace is that it doesn’t always have to be expensive. There are a ton of upgrades you can make without hurting your bank account too much. We have found six of the best ways you can update your fireplace on a budget for you to check out today. 

 

Replace your mantel

 

Your mantel is one of the most significant features of your fireplace, and having the right one is the best way to enhance the rest of your room. Unfortunately, mantels are often quite specific, so if you want to change the aesthetic of your room, you’ll probably need to replace your mantel as well.

While this isn’t the cheapest option, it is better than replacing your entire fireplace. For example, if you are opting for a more elegant look in your room, you may want a grand mantel full of beautiful carvings. For something a little more modern, you may opt for a sleek mantel made of marble. 

You can often save a few more bucks by purchasing a second-hand mantel on sites such as Gumtree or eBay too. 

 

 

Paint your old fire surround

 

If you’re happy with your mantel, but your fireplace still doesn’t look right, you can also consider painting the original surround. This is the area that is around your fireplaces, such as the edges and even the mantel itself. When a fireplace has been around for a while, the paint tends to chip, too, so you can give it a fresh look with a fresh coat of paint.

If your fireplace’s surround is wooden, you need to strip it and sand it before you start painting. Start with primer, and then apply two coats of wood paint. Tiles are incredibly easy to paint as well. When you move to the insert, you need high-heat enamel paint and a foam brush to achieve the perfect finish. 

 

 

 

Cover it in white

 

We’ve already spoken about painting your fireplace, but have you thought about the color? You can never go wrong with a simple whitewash, especially if you are covering a brick fireplace. Often dull bricks can bring down the entire ambiance of a room, so providing it with a fresh coat of white paint brightens the place up and suits almost every aesthetic. 

Applying white paint to brick is extremely easy and doesn’t take too long. All you have to do is pour half-white latex paint and half water into a bucket and combine them together. Ensure the bricks are already clean before applying your first coat and add a second if you want a more opaque finish.   

 

                                                                                                   

Make it tiled

 

If you’ve tried painting as a method to modernize your fireplace, but decided that it isn’t doing its job, then you may want to try an extra step. Instead of simply changing the color, you can update the entire surround by piling on some tiles with a unique design. You can either use a glossy white, two-tones, or use your creativity to come up with something different. 

Applying tiles to an already-built fireplace saves you money more than starting from scratch, and it isn’t as difficult as it sounds. The first step is measuring the area you want to cover and ensure you have enough tiles to fit. Depending on the material of your fireplace, you can then apply the tiles using an adhesive or mix, spread, and comb mortar before adding the tiles. 

 

 

Rearrange the furniture and accessories

 

Sometimes you don’t even need to spend any money to update your fireplace. If you are already happy with the color and materials, then you may just need to give it a bit of a refresh. This can easily be done by simply moving around the furniture and other accessories in your room to make the fireplace stand out and rearranging the way your chosen decor sits on the mantel.

For example, if your fireplace is kind of in the background of your room, you may want to draw more attention to it. By moving all the chairs to point to the fireplace, you make it more central. You may even want to place your TV above it, and turn it into a media wall. Tactically move your decor as well so that everything looks sleek and more modern. 

 

 

Upgrade to an electric fire

 

You don’t have to remove your old fireplace to upgrade it to an electric fire. In fact, you can simply use the empty space to install a smaller electric fire, providing you with a modern approach but keeping the traditional look. Not only does it look fantastic and provides you with the warmth you desire, but it also comes with a wide range of other benefits. 

When you use an electric fire to block off the chimney, you gain more heat because you aren’t losing any of it due to a draft. Similarly, you also don’t need to worry about keeping your beloved furniture at a distance in case the heat from flames will destroy it, and no burning embers will shoot out of the fireplace either. 

 

 

Final thoughts 

 

Sometimes it is nice to make a change in your home’s decor without having to spend too much money. And your fireplace is a great place to start.  If you feel like your fireplace has been looking the same or too dull for too long, then you’ll certainly benefit from using one of the tips we have suggested above. And the best part? None of them take a lot of money or  manpower to accomplish.

 

Supplies You’ll Need

 

When you’re getting ready to paint a stone fireplace, you’ll want to be careful about the type of paint you’re purchasing. Stone paint updates the color while keeping the look of real stone. This way, you’re not flattening it out. Your fireplace gets a facelift while maintaining its character.

In addition to stone paint, you’ll need:

•   Painter’s tape
•   A drop cloth or an old sheet
•   A fireplace cleaner or mild liquid dish soap mixed with warm water
•   A good scrubbing brush
•   Paintable acrylic latex caulk (if there are cracks too big to be painted over)

 

Step 1: Prepare the Work Area

 

Preparing the work area is simpler than it sounds. Simply gather your supplies, clear the area of any decorative items, wood, tools, or fireplace screens, and use painter’s tape and drop cloth to section off any areas that need protecting. Tape the drop cloth to the floor around the fireplace to avoid drips. You’ll also want to tape around the mantel.

 

Step 2: Clean the Fireplace’s Surface

 

Next, you’ll want to break out your cleaner and brush and scrub the surface of your fireplace. Once it’s dry, check for cracks. Small ones are fine to paint over, but bigger ones will need to be filled in with the caulk we mentioned. If you have to fill some larger cracks before breaking out the stone paint, give the caulk enough time to dry before moving on to the next step.

 

Step 3: Choose Your Paint

 

As we mentioned earlier, it’s important to choose paint for stone, not just any ordinary paint. You can apply stone paint over previously painted stone just as easily as over stone that’s never been painted before.

Our stone fireplace paint kit contains everything you need to quickly transform your old fireplace into something new. In the kit, you’ll find base coat sealer, paint, a paint brush and tray, rollers, a sponge, and painter’s tape. Everything is pre-tested and pre-mixed, so it’s ready to use.

Your color options include:

• Frosted sunshine: a mix of tan, gray, and yellowish cream that works well with other light colors and makes bold colors pop.
• Misty harbor: a mix of light and medium grays with a subtle touch of cream that works well with gray carpeting or furniture and other cool color tones.
• Twilight taupe: a mix of taupe, tan, beige, and cream that resembles natural sandstone. Easy to match to most color and décor schemes.  

 

Step 4: Paint the Fireplace

 

Now we’re getting to the good stuff! Your fireplace is prepped and clean, and you have your color. All that’s left to do is seal and paint. Pour some base coat sealer into your paint tray, dip and coat your roller evenly, and then work the roller over the fireplace’s surface from top to bottom. Use a brush to cover edges, corners, and tight spaces.

The sealer will help prevent your paint from soaking in and drying unevenly. It’ll also help prevent the old color from bleeding through and protect against rusting and peeling. Once your sealer is completely dry, follow the same steps with your stone paint; roll from the top down, use a brush to cut in around edges, cover corners, and dab into tight spaces.

For optimal results, paint for stone may require two coats. Allow your first coat to dry before you evaluate the color.

 

Step 5: Clean Up

 

Congratulations! You’ve upgraded your living space and saved thousands on renovations. But you’re not finished just yet. While it may be tempting to leave the cleanup for later, the longer painter’s tape stays on, the harder it is to remove. Remove it cautiously at a 45-degree angle so it doesn’t damage your fresh paint.

Once the mantel is clear, do the same for your drop cloths. Handle them carefully, as they may have globs of paint on them. Lastly, close up and put away your paint cans and wash your brushes and tools with warm, soapy water, rinsing them thoroughly to preserve them for future projects.

Now that that’s out of the way, you can kick back and enjoy that fireplace!

 

Brick fireplaces are valuable additions to any home, but sometimes they don’t look quite how we want them to. It could be because you’ve just moved into a property that already has a brick fireplace, or you’re looking at redecorating your room, and your current brick fireplace doesn’t match the new aesthetic. 

Whatever the reason, sometimes you need a brick fireplace makeover, and there are a ton of ways you can do it. We’ve put together ten of the best ways to give your fireplace a new look, plus many photos of a before and after fireplace makeover. 

 

Modernizing with paint

 

A coat of paint is sometimes all a brick fireplace needs to look completely different. Many old brick fireplaces are red or brown, which may not fit in with the rest of your room. Over time, they may have started to discolor as well, so you want to introduce a new color that fits in with your aesthetic while making it appear new.

The color you choose is completely up to you and your own personal style, but if you want something a bit modern, you can’t go wrong with black, white, or gray. These tones match almost any style, and it means you can change the aesthetic of the room any time you like without having to paint it again.

Painting a brick fireplace is extremely easy, especially with one of Brick Anew’s fireplace painting kits. They have everything you need to ensure the job is completed to perfection.

 

Before & after

 

 

A brand-new fireplace mantel

 

Maybe it’s not the fireplace itself that needs a makeover, but simply just the fireplace mantel. It may not seem like a big part, but it can actually make all the difference when you replace it with something new. 

There are many materials to choose from when looking for a new fireplace mantel. Some people think installing a wooden mantel is a good idea, especially if you have wooden floors and furniture. However, you can also opt for certain types of metals with a shiny finish. It’s always a good idea to try and match it up to the decor in your room, and it can completely refresh the look of your brick fireplace.

If you’re looking for the perfect mantel but unsure which one will match your brick fireplace, you can browse the selection on Brick Anew and speak to one of our representatives. We are always happy to help give your fireplace the perfect makeover. 

 

Before

After

 

Tiling a fireplace

 

Maybe you don’t want a brick fireplace at all anymore, but you don’t want to go through the hassle of building a new one. Luckily, you can easily make it look like you’ve put in a new fireplace without it taking up too much time, creating a mess, or costing too much money. 

Tiling a brick fireplace is actually much more simple than you may believe. All you need is some strong tile adhesive and the tiles you want to put over the bricks. You can either stick to one color, such as a smooth white or create mosaic patterns throughout the tiles with different tones that match the rest of your room. Once you’ve decided what to do, you should smear a thin layer of adhesive on the brick and then stick the tile down. You may have to cut some of the tiles to ensure they all fit. 

 

From vintage to elegant

 

The main problem that people face with brick fireplaces is that they can often look outdated and although they were built back in the 1700s. This was especially the case when you didn’t have the fireplace built yourself, but it was already there when you moved into a new property. 

Many people who want to bring some mid-century elegance to their brick fireplace will opt to paint it, as we have already mentioned. However, choosing the right tone that doesn’t clash with the rest of the room is often the main problem. When your bricks are initially red and old, you may want to modernize them with a dark gray or even black. 

It may not sound so elegant initially, but it brings it into the 21st century. You will notice how it makes the room look much more in touch with the last decade, so don’t knock it until you try it. 

 

Before

 

After

 

 

Mortar wash makeover

 

Have you ever seen a mortar wash over a brick fireplace? It is truly a beautiful sight, and it definitely provides your area with a much more unique makeover. It is a bit like painting your fireplace, however, the final look isn’t as opaque, and some of the original brick will show through. 

The steps are also similar to painting a fireplace, but you’ll need mortar mix in your color of choice, normally white, instead of paint. Start by vacuuming your fireplace to remove debris, and then add painter’s tape to the edges. You’ll need to mix your mortar in a bucket before starting.

Begin by filling in the grout of your fireplace with mortar and then spread it from the grout lines all over the bricks. Repeat these steps until the grout lines are completely full with your chosen color. Choose how much brick you want to show through, and when you are happy with the result, you just have to wait for it to dry. 

 

A new beige fireplace

 

While most of the time, you don’t have to do much to update a brick fireplace and give it a makeover, other times, you may want to go the whole nine yards. This means actually replacing the brick itself. Many people are into marble at the moment, and you can’t go wrong with polished marble in a beige tone. 

You will have to remove the bricks from your fireplace and completely put in new marble, but at least you won’t have to build the chimney and surround it from scratch. Any shade of beige will look amazing, bringing extra warmth and light into the room with a Tuscan style that takes you straight to Italy in your own living room.

 

Before

 

 

After

 

 

 

Making it minimalist

 

When you look at your fireplace, is it surrounded with pieces of decor and odd knick-knacks that completely cover the mantel and parts of the surround? It can make it look cluttered and will draw attention from the actual beauty of your brick fireplace. That’s why you may need to dress it down and give it a more minimalist look.

Sometimes a brick fireplace doesn’t need much to stand out. If you aren’t happy with the color of the bricks, simply paint them with a color you like. Or if you want a new mantel, replace it. You don’t need to cover it completely with decor to try and give it style.

If you do want to place some things on the mantel, that is okay too, but don’t overdo it. Just a few pot plants or photos of your family can do just the job. As many people say, sometimes less is more, which is the case with brick fireplaces. 

 

Refacing a 1970s fireplace

 

If you haven’t updated your brick fireplace since the 1970s, then it might be time to do so now. Many fireplaces from that decade don’t come with a mantel, instead, it is covered in wood paneling. It looks nothing like the fireplaces that are built today, and it can make your room look older than it needs to. 

But it’s okay, as there are tons of things you can do, such as giving it a full makeover, so it stands out once again. You can get rid of the wooden paneling and finally give the fireplace the mantel it has always wanted. 

You can also reface the brick on the fireplace and put tile in place instead. It is a method that many choose when they want something completely new. And as we’ve already mentioned, it isn’t hard to do. 

 

Introducing a modern look

 

Most of the makeovers we’ve mentioned already give your brick fireplace an updated look, but there are other ways to make it a bit more modern. Painting it white is always one of the best choices, but gray is a clear second best as it makes the area look sleek and ready to match the rest of the room. 

There are also a few other ways you can introduce a touch of modernity, such as providing the fireplace with a gloss or matte finish. You also can’t go wrong with a few pieces of contemporary decor to make the look stand out.

 

Before

 

 

After

 

 

Cement and wood improvement

 

Who says you must stick to one material when updating your brick fireplace? Some opt to replace it with tile, while others want to put a metallic mantel in place. However, have you ever considered a wood and cement improvement that brings the two materials together in one place?

A wooden mantel can really bring a fireplace together, and if you have one that is starting to splinter or are unhappy with your current mantel, it is always a good idea. It is also great to put a cement slab on the floor where you can keep your firewood and prevent any flames and ashes from reaching the carpet or hardwood.

 

Before

 

 

After

 

 

When you think of the holidays, what comes to mind? For many, it is often immediately Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Halloween. They are three holidays known for decorating, whether it’s with trees, turkeys, or pumpkins. However, a holiday that many people seem to miss out on and which has a lot of great potential in terms of decor is Easter.

During the springtime, after your yearly cleaning, it may seem like the time to update your fireplace decorations. The only problem is many people don’t have many ideas about how to decorate the area. Luckily, Easter is just around the corner at this time, so you can use some of these creative ideas. 

 

Why put up Easter fireplace decorations?

 

Just like other holidays such as Christmas, Easter is a popular time of year. It represents many things and is especially exciting for kids and families. Sometimes we need a little magic in our lives, and by putting up Easter decorations around your fireplace and mantel, you can bring it into your home for the months leading up to the holiday. 

When people come around your house and see your well-designed decorations, they’ll be in complete awe, and you’ll be the talk of the neighborhood. It makes your home seem cozier, and it is just nice to look at in general. 

 

Easter fireplace decoration ideas

 

Ready to get decorating for Easter? Here are our top six best ideas:

 

Easter bunny decorations

 

The bunny is one of the biggest icons when it comes to Easter, so it is no surprise that placing some Easter bunny decorations around your fireplace and mantel will help you get into the holiday spirit. There are some unique ways you can incorporate bunnies around the area and make them match the rest of your room’s aesthetic for the season. 

You can either go the easy route and purchase some bunny decorations from your local store, whether it’s a figurine or bunting. Or you can get creative and make your own bunny decorations. All you have to do is find a DIY video on YouTube, and you’ll give your fireplace a more impressive edge.

 

Farmhouse-style Easter mantel

 

Your fireplace doesn’t have to have a childish charm when you decorate for Easter, but rather you could give your mantel something a little more elegant. You can add a touch of nature to the center of the area by placing some real or fake spring flowers, such as daisies and dahlias, into terra cotta pots. 

If the flowers don’t seem like enough to represent Easter, then you can always add a small chalkboard to stand against the mantel behind the flowers. What you write on it is up to you, but you can’t go wrong with a ‘Happy Easter’ or ‘Happy spring’.

 

Rainbow display of cardboard eggs

 

Add a splash of color to your room by creating your own Easter eggs. Of course, these ones don’t have to be made out of chocolate, especially if you want them to withstand the heat from your fireplace. Instead, you can make some rainbow-themed eggs made out of cardboard and paint them yourself. 

Once your Easter eggs have been created, you are going to want to figure out how to display them. You can either line them up to look like a rainbow, or you can fill them in a wicker basket to give them a more festive look. Either way, it is a great decoration, especially if you have kids and want them to get excited about Easter too. 

Hang seasonal bunting across the mantel

 

Sometimes you don’t need to go all out when decorating your fireplace for Easter, and a simple bunting is all you need to feel ready for Spring. The options are endless regarding what design and colors you use, and you can always go out and buy a ready-made one or save some money by making your own.

The most popular types of buntings include flags with bunnies or eggs on them, but you can also focus more on a spring theme with some flowers. This is a fantastic option when you want something to match the rest of your room’s aesthetic, as there is something for everyone. 

 

Incorporate candles

 

No matter what time of year it is, you can never go wrong with some candles. They come in all shapes and sizes, and you can easily find one that matches spring and Easter. For example, there are bound to be some Easter bunny-shaped candles available that you can put on either end of your mantel. 

If you want something a little more understated, you can opt for pastel colors representing the spring or special scents such as freshly cut grass or flowers. Not only will they look great and add something to your fireplace, but they will also smell fantastic when you light them up. 

 

Display an Easter tree

 

Who said Christmas is the only time of year you can put up a tree? You can still get festive when it’s Easter by placing a fake pine tree, similar to the one you’d use in December, either next to your fireplace or on the mantel. It can either be in the traditional green, or you can opt for some spring colors such as yellow or pink.

The decorations you put around your Easter tree allow you to be creative. You can combine anything from bunnies and eggs to flowers and special tinsel. It’ll be unlike anything anyone else has in their homes, and you’ll definitely stand out in the neighborhood. 

 

Final thoughts

 

Decorating your fireplace, whether it’s at Christmas or Easter, is a way to brighten up any room, and it can also be extremely therapeutic. It is a fun way to get creative and start feeling excited about a new season. You can either use one of the ideas we have suggested for you or try something different, but you certainly won’t regret it. 

 

Sometimes we have a fireplace in our homes, but have no use for it. Maybe it came with the house you bought, and it has already been tiled up. Or maybe you have another source of heat, and there is no practicality to using the fireplace. In these cases, it may seem like a waste of space, but there are actually some ways you can utilize it with a bit of creativity. 

With a nice coat of paint or a bit of unique decor, you can make your fireplace a central part of the room without having to use it. Need some inspiration? Keep reading to discover eight ways you can transform your unused fireplace into a decorative focal point in your room.

 

Renew with rustic

 

You may not be using your fireplace, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it look like it’s being used. By putting together a rustic look, you can ensure your fireplace stays clean all the time by providing guests with the illusion that it is functioning. 

All you have to do is give your unused fireplace a good cleaning until it is sparkling. You can then gather a few pieces of wood and stack them together to make it look like you’ll be lighting a fire. You can also place a basket with other pieces of wood to place next to the fireplace to make it look more realistic. 

 

Fill it with plants

 

Do you have a green thumb? If you do, and you want to make your room a bit more natural, then you can always use the extra space in your unused fireplace as a place to store your plants. There are a ton of ways you can get creative this way, and how you incorporate your plants is entirely up to you!

You may want to make it look like leaves are cascading out of the fireplace, with vines hanging off the mantel to give it an untamed, wild look. Or maybe you want to keep it simple with a few potted flowers. The options are endless. 

 

Paint it white

 

Are you looking to update your entire room, but your fireplace is standing out too much? Maybe you have a red brick fireplace, but you want to give your room a more modern black-and-white color scheme. If this is the case, you only need a fresh coat of paint. 

White goes with anything, so even if your walls are yellow and your furniture is black, you can still paint your fireplace white, and it will look okay. It is a neutral color, so if you ever decide to update your room again, you don’t have to go through with the hassle of painting it over again. 

 

Add an electric heater

 

Do you want to add heat to your room without the hassle of cleaning up ash and soot each time you light a fire? Then you can always incorporate a heater into the unused space of your fireplace. If done properly, it will look sleek and modern and save space compared to if you were to add the electric heater anywhere else in the room.

The type of heater you add is entirely up to you, and it doesn’t necessarily need to be electric. You could even place a wood-burning stove into the spare space to provide a bit more creativity to the center of the room. 

 

Make it marble

 

Marble is a timeless material and it provides any room with an updated look that you won’t be able to get with any other. This would almost be impossible if you were already using your fireplace and wanted to add a marble adhesive. Adhesives will often melt or dislodge due to the heat, so it is impractical. 

The great thing about updating an unused fireplace is that you don’t have to worry about how the heat of the fire will affect the materials or decorations you dress it with. Therefore, marble is something you may want to consider as a new addition. 

 

Try some timber

 

While you can stack some firewood in your unused fireplace to make it seem like it is being used, you can also use the spare space as an area to store wood. If you often have outdoor bonfires or BBQs, you may not have a spot to store your firewood. Therefore, why not kill two birds with one stone and use it to decorate your fireplace? 

It provides your room with a rustic feel and also blocks up the unused fireplace to prevent any drafts from coming into the room. Just make sure you clean up the fireplace first, and the area will look perfect. 

 

Make it a cozy pet bed

 

Do you have a dog or a cat? Are you looking for a new spot in your home to place their bed? Instead of tripping over it on the floor in the middle of the room, why not put it in the spare space in your unused fireplace? Pets love a small space to cuddle up in, so they would no doubt love falling asleep on a bed in your fireplace. 

You can make the entire space cozy by dressing it up with some blankets and toys for your pet. Make sure they know it’s the place for them to settle down, and they’ll be spending all their time there before you know it. 

 

Bring in some seasonality

 

Celebrating holidays is some of the most fun times of the year, so why not show it by dressing up your unused fireplace to represent each season? In winter, you may want to add some Christmas decorations, such as bright lights, tinsel, and even a small Christmas tree in the hollowed-out space.

You can also use the fall season to represent Halloween with a few spooky unused fireplace decorations. Summertime may be the best time to add some florals, and spring is a great season to update your fireplace with some Easter creativity.

Back in the day, you had a brick fireplace in your home, and that was it. You could paint it, but other than that, you were stuck with that design. However, now that we’re in the modern age, a fireplace can provide you with so much more than heat. It is a place to display your belongings, something to match the aesthetic of your room, and even something to mix together with technology. 

If you want to update your fireplace or add a unique and modern fireplace to your room, you may want to consider a media wall. It is an innovative addition that will make all your visitors drop their jaws in awe. 

Keep reading to find out exactly how you can build one. 

 

What is a media wall?

 

Before you start your media wall, you must first know what one is. They’ve been around for the last decade, especially when flat-screen TVs started to become a big hit. People no longer had to place their chunky TV on a stand, but now they could mount them on the wall, even above their fireplace. 

Therefore, a media wall is simple. It is a wall with a piece of technology, such as a television or an electronic picture frame. You can have it with or without a fireplace, but combining them together gives you a much better result. 

 

Steps to create a media wall fireplace

 

Ready to get started in building your own fireplace media wall? All you have to do is follow these simple steps:

 

Put together some inspiration and design ideas

 

Before you start gathering materials, you want to have an idea of what sort of media wall you will place in your room. Do you want it to match the aesthetic of your furniture? Or do you want it to stand out a little more? There are a ton of things to consider, and you can often make your decision by looking for some inspiration.

The internet is a great place; you can often find images and descriptions of other people’s fireplace media walls. You may find something that fits your exact needs right away, or you may have to look a little longer. 

 

The wall

 

Once you know the type of fireplace media wall you want, you need to find where you’re going to put it together. Not every wall is able to withhold a TV and fireplace, so you need to find one that can. Most media walls are stud walls built from a wooden frame and covered in plasterboard. If you don’t have one of these, you may have to consider alternative options. 

Another consideration will be whether you’ll be adding any additional features to your wall or if you want the TV and fireplace to be central and alone. You could always add some bookshelves, photo frames, or other storage facilities, but the choice is entirely up to you. 

 

The fireplace

 

Finding the wall is probably one of the easier steps, but now you need to decide what sort of fireplace you want to add to it.

 

 

 

Will it fit?

 

Fireplaces don’t all come in the same size, and some are bigger than others. If you have a specific fireplace in mind, you need to figure out whether it is actually going to fit on your wall first. You will need first to figure out how much space it will take up based on how it is incorporated into the wall and then take complete measurements.

 

If it seems like your fireplace may just fit in the space, we don’t recommend taking the risk. Instead, you may have to just give up the fireplace you were first looking at and find one that meets your dimensions and your needs. 

 

Heat output

 

The whole point of a fireplace is that it will heat up your room during the winter months. Therefore, there isn’t much point in purchasing a fireplace that isn’t going to do its job efficiently. Any fireplace you choose should have a front heater, ensuring all the warmth is generated into your room and not within the wall. 

Other accessories like glass fireplace doors can also help with heat output. They prevent too much cold air from coming through the chimney and into your room when the fire isn’t burning. 

 

 Clearance

 

While you’ve already checked that the fireplace will fit on the wall, you also need to check that there is enough space around your fireplace as well. This includes any furniture that may not be able to be moved. The heat of a fire can be intense if you are too close to it, so you don’t want any personal effects that can be damaged nearby. 

 

Often, a fireplace manufacturer will guide you on how much clearance you will need. Look this up before purchasing the fireplace and ensure that your room can handle it. 

 

Design

 

Of course, you want to ensure that the fireplace you’re purchasing and adding to your media wall suits the aesthetic and design of your room. If you want a modern fireplace, you may want to opt for an electric one with a sleek, black, or marble finish. If your room is slightly more traditional, you may want a whitewashed brick fireplace with distinct carvings in the mantel.

 

It is best to shop around for the perfect fireplace rather than settle on the first one you see. Your media wall will be with you for a long time, so you don’t want to have any regrets once it has been installed. 

 

The television

 

Last but not least, you need to figure out what television you want. Of course, it has to be one that can be mounted on the wall, therefore, it should be a flatscreen. Every other aspect of your TV is entirely up to you. Will you be using it just for cable TV? Or will you be watching streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime? You might want to opt for a Smart TV or one with extra HD. 

 

It is the final step in your media wall, and there are thousands of options out there, so make sure you find the right one. 

 

Final thoughts

 

A fireplace media wall is a fantastic addition to any home, but it isn’t an easy thing to make. Luckily, with the help of Brick Anew, you can paint your fireplace to give it a modern, updated look.  You can also find the perfect set of fireplace glass doors to add a finishing touch. Your fireplace is best when it has all the right accessories, and we will help you find the perfect ones so you are happy for years to come. 

The world of style is changing all the time, and this isn’t always just referring to the fashion world. In fact, interior designers are always finding new ways to update people’s homes and make them look more elegant and modern than ever before. One aspect they have been focusing on this year is fireplaces as well. 

If you’re thinking of updating your current fireplace or installing a brand new one in a room in your home, you may want to know what is ‘in’ at the moment. That’s why we’ve gathered the top fireplace design trends to help you out and provide inspiration. 

 

Minimalist fireplaces

Fireplaces don’t need to show off too much to be memorable, and that’s why many people have been opting for low-key fireplaces this year. Instead of intricate patterns and bright colors, you can settle for a neutral and smooth fireplace that blends in with the rest of your room. People can then focus on the fire instead of the design. 

Marble fireplaces

Marble is a material that never gets old, and it is especially ‘in’ this year. It is simply timeless and provides a room with a luxurious appeal. They come in all sorts of colors, but most people tend to settle for the typical black and white. It isn’t too much, but it adds a little bit of texture you can’t go wrong with. 

 

Practical use of space

While a fireplace is often a central feature of a room, that doesn’t mean it has to take up much space. If you like to place many things against or on your wall, you may want a functional fireplace that doesn’t take up much space. You can also place your television or other items above the fireplace to save even more space. 

 

Modern fireplaces

What is modern in style is always changing, but it tends to remain minimalistic, sleek and has some form of technology. Electric fireplaces are all the rage for people who want to put their fire on with the click of a button and not worry about loading wood and smoke. They also come in many different colors, but you can never go wrong with a smooth black. 

Room divider fireplaces

If you’re considering separating a room by adding a wall, why not turn it into a fireplace instead? You will be able to see the fire from both sides, and you will then have two new rooms to decorate and furnish. It is especially popular to be in the middle of a kitchen and living room and can help you kill two birds with one stone. 

 

Wallpaper surround

Looking for something a little funkier than the standard smooth colors? Why not update the surround of the fireplace you have installed by pasting a unique wallpaper and pattern onto it? As long as it matches the rest of your room and even your walls, it can help your fireplace blend in.

A fireplace is a central part of any room, but without the right decor above it, it can look a little bit dull. When someone walks into your room, they’re drawn to the fireplace immediately, so you will want to ensure it looks beautiful with a style that reflects you. But where do you even get started, and what can you do to spruce it up?

Luckily, there are a ton of different pieces of decor you can hang above your fireplace that will make the area look complete. You are guaranteed some beautiful visuals, and people will take a breathtaking gasp the moment they see it. 

Continue reading this guide to get some inspiration for how you can decorate the top of your fireplace. 

 

Paintings/art

You don’t need to be an expert on Matisse or Da Vinci to enjoy some beautiful art around your home, and this is no different when it comes to your fireplace. If you have found a unique painting that reflects your style and taste in art, then you may want to hang it above your fireplace. You can opt for one large painting or add smaller pieces scattered above the area. 

It will be central for everyone who visits your room, and they will be able to admire your taste in art. One thing you need to be sure of is that every painting or piece of art is straight and lines up with your fireplace mantel. Another is that it matches the color scheme of your room. You don’t want bright red paintings when the rest of the room is decorated using pastel tones. 

 

Mirrors

No room is complete without a mirror, so why not place it in a place where everyone can use it? A mirror is a useful item where you can check yourself out before heading out for the day, and it also adds a touch of elegance or glamor to the rest of your room. It removes the plain backdrop above your fireplace and gives you something a little extra to admire. 

Similar to any painting, you want to be sure that the mirror is lined up perfectly on the wall with your fireplace’s mantel. There is nothing worse than a skewed mirror. You will also want to ensure that the frame matches the rest of your furniture. For example, you can use a wooden mirror frame if your end tables and chairs are also made of wood. 

 

Family photos

 For most people, their family is the pride of their life, so there is no surprise they’ll want to show them off to anyone who visits their home. Adding family photos either onto your mantel or mounted on the wall above your fireplace is a way to keep beautiful memories alive. Each time you walk past them, you’ll receive a feeling of nostalgia and warmth that you won’t get from any other piece of decor. 

How you add your family photos to your fireplace and the number you add is entirely up to you. Getting your frames to match the mantel if you are resting them there may be a good idea. If you decide to hang them on the wall, you can ensure the frames match the rest of your room’s decor. 

 

Wreaths

It doesn’t have to be Christmas time for you to hang a wreath up in your house, and it can provide an earthy yet elegant feel to the room. There are tons of different wreaths you can choose from, or you can even make one yourself. You may opt for one made out of twigs and olive branches or one with lavender and more man-made materials. 

A wreath is usually kept simple and to the center above your fireplace. You don’t want to go overboard with too many materials, and ensure that it reflects your own values and the feeling of the room. You can then add some candles, plants, or other pieces of decor below on the mantel to spruce the area up a little more. 

 

TV

Most rooms, especially the living room, have a television. Therefore, it needs to go somewhere central where everyone can see it. What better place to put a TV than above the fireplace, the most central thing in any room? You can either place it on a stand on the mantel or mount it up to the wall. As long as it’s not an old-fashioned, bulky piece of technology, it will modernize the room and make it cozier.

Your TV will have to be central to your fireplace to make it look the best. You may also want to consider rearranging your furniture so that all the seating faces the fireplace. It will make it easier to watch the television, and you’ll also have the perfect spot to sit and enjoy the fire in the winter. 

Clocks

Not everyone has a wristwatch on them at all times, which can be difficult when they want to tell what time is. When you’re stuck over what you should put above your fireplace, especially when you already have many other small pieces of decor around the room, you may want to settle for a simple clock. 

If you are someone who frequently has visitors and they sit around the fireplace, it is always useful to have a clock central to the room so you can keep an eye on the time. The best part is that clocks come in all shapes and sizes, so you can also easily find one that fits in with the rest of the space. However, it is a good idea to opt for one that is big enough for everyone to see. 

 

Final thoughts

A fireplace is a great sight to look at in any room, but it is even better when you’ve added some decor above it. The best thing to do when deciding what you’ll be placing above your fireplace is to think about what will represent you as a person and go from there.

It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year, and many of you have probably already started putting up the Christmas tree and other festive decorations. Your fireplace also needs to be stripped down of all the fall decor and replaced with something that represents this time of the year. But how do you do this when you’ve never done it before? Or maybe you just want to switch things up from previous years.

Luckily, there is no shortage of choice when it comes to festive fireplace decorations, and you can choose the design and layout that best suits you. We’ve found eight of the best ways you can decorate your fireplace this Christmas, so find the best one and try it out. 

 

Match your tree

Most people use the same Christmas tree and decorations every year, so you most likely already have a theme and layout that you’ve been using. You don’t want to have a blue and white colored Christmas tree and then a red and green fireplace mantel, so the best thing is to match the two. 

Use similar decorations that are placed on your decoration tree around your fireplace. For example, if you use silver tinsel, then place some around the mantel and add some glittery silver angels on the top as well. They will complement each other beautifully. 

 

Introduce festive florals

If your fireplace mantel is usually a place where you place seasonal flowers, then you don’t have to change this theme when it comes to Christmas time. In fact, you can add a ton of festive florals to the surroundings of your fireplace to give it a more magical edge while it matches the rest of your decorations. 

You may want to keep it simple with a singular wreath hung up above your fireplace, or you can add a number of different bouquets spread across the mantel. Anything from red petals to leafy greens can provide you with a Christmassy yet natural feel while brightening up the room. 

 

Give the decor lots of height

 

You don’t have to keep your decorations small, like on your Christmas tree when sprucing up your fireplace. In fact, sometimes the taller, the better. It brings a lot of attention to the area and can make it seem much more exciting than any other time of the year. You can extend many items above your fireplace, and what you choose is up to you. 

You can either place some tall gold candlesticks on the mantel of the fireplace or some long-leaved festive plants. The number of possibilities is endless, but it’ll help your fireplace area stand out much more than the rest of the room. 

 

An all-white color scheme

What is one thing you think of when the word ‘Christmas’ comes to mind? Snow! There are a ton of festive songs all about this glorious icy phenomenon, and you may want to introduce the same theme to your fireplace. Incorporating a range of white decorations around your fireplace will give your room a snowy appeal.

White tinsel is a great place to start, and you can hang it around the frame and mantel of the fireplace. From there, you may want to add a number of stars, snowglobes, or little snowmen to show off. You can finish the decorations with cut-up fake snow to present your winter wonderland to anyone visiting. 

Add ornaments

Many people collect figurines and display them on their fireplaces all year round, and if this sounds like you, then you can do the same with Christmas ornaments. Similar to the sort of items you hang on your Christmas tree, they are small, but they can also be sentimental and come with a story. 

There are various ways you can showcase your ornaments, whether it’s a number of biblical items that display a nativity scene or a collection of bright bulbous that make your mantel look even more magical. Either way, it makes your decorations much more special and unique than anyone else. 

 

Showcase your Christmas favorites

Do you have any Christmas sets that mean a lot to you? Maybe you put them on the window sill or on top of the piano all the other years. However, now you have a fireplace, and you can display them front and center for anyone who comes to visit.

Your Christmas favorites may be different from everyone else’s, however some people tend to have similar items. You can have anything from a porcelain Father Christmas doll to a Little Drummer Boy, and they will no doubt put a smile on people’s faces. You can even place them in silly poses each day, as though the magic of Christmas is making them move. 

 

Make it asymmetrical

Things don’t need to match when it comes to Christmas decorations, which is the festive season’s beauty. While stockings are often hung on the fireplace, you may choose to have them on one side and a bit of decorative tinsel hanging on the other side. They may not match, but sometimes it just works. 

If your color scheme is red and green, you can also use this to your advantage when making your decorations asymmetrical. You can have an ‘all green’ decorative side of the fireplace and then replace the other side with ‘all red’ decorations. It is a bit edgier, but it can make your fireplace stand out. 

 

Keep it simple 

You don’t have to bombard your fireplace mantel with a ton of decorations to make it look Christmassy. In fact, sometimes less is more. You may choose to just add a bit of tinsel to the trim of the mantel and call it a day, or introduce a wreath to the wall above the fireplace, which is central to the room.

Sometimes adding too many decorations can make the fireplace look tacky, and there is no real theme to what you’re trying to do. Choose some of your favorite decorations, add them to the top of your fireplace and then call it a day. 

A fireplace is often a central point in your lounge or bedroom… but so is your television. Of course, you want both to look nice in your room, but they often look a little bit tacky and out of place when you put them side by side. That’s why many people have turned to decorate their fireplace WITH their television, to give their room an added edge.

You can often place your television on the fireplace’s mantel if you have enough space, but many people will opt to mount the electronic device on the wall above the fireplace. How you decide to place your TV and decorate the area is entirely up to you, but we’re here to give you a few ideas to help. 

 

5 mantel decorating ideas that work with a TV

 

Unsure of where to start with decorating your mantel when you’ve introduced a TV above your fireplace? Why not consider one of these ideas first: 

 

Place the most focus on the ends

 

Your television will most likely be front and center above your fireplace and its mantel, so you don’t want to take too much attention away from the screen. If you place a bulk of objects right below the TV, it can look too cluttered and make it more difficult for people to focus on what’s playing on your television.

By spreading out the decor so that it is placed on both ends of the mantel, it provides your fireplace with a decent amount of decoration. In addition, if you stick to the golden rule of a maximum of three objects on each side, you’ll never miss out on your favorite show again.

 

Use short items to surround the TV

 

The whole point of placing your TV above your mantel is that you want a good view of classic movies and dramatic shows. However, placing tall items in front of or next to your television can make it harder to focus on what you’re watching. It can also disrupt the balance of all the other items in the vicinity of your TV.

The best thing to do is ensure your TV is the largest and tallest item above your mantel. Therefore, all other pieces of decor need to be fairly short and at the same height as each other. As a result, your TV will stand out, and you’ll have a beautiful mantel surrounding it. 

 

Add some greenery with plants 

 

This may not be for everyone, but if you have a green thumb, you may want to consider adding some plants to the mix when decorating your fireplace and its mantel. You don’t want to overwhelm the area with too many, but one or two can provide the perfect look for your room and keep the TV looking fresh. 

Instead of opting for large plants that grow a few feet into the air, consider one that instead cascades down the mantel and adds unique visuals to the area. However, of course, make sure it isn’t in the way of where the fire burns because you may end up losing your beloved plants before their time. 

 

Spruce it up with some candles  

 

Candles make anything look nice. Have an empty bookshelf? Add some candles. Need to add a bit of decor to your room? Add some candles. Want your house to smell nice all year round? ADD SOME CANDLES! This is the same for your fireplace mantel and TV, however, there are certain candles you’ll want to display over others.

If you place candlesticks on your mantel, they risk being taller than your TV, and the open flame could lead to some damage you’ll regret. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to opt for container candles because they are shorter, come in all sorts of patterns and scents, and don’t pose as much risk to your setting. 

 

Stick to a minimalistic layout 

 

If you’re here looking for ideas on decorating your fireplace’s mantel, then it might look a bit bare at the moment. You obviously want to add something to it, but at the same time, you want to avoid adding too much. The best approach is to stay minimalistic, adding a few things here and there, but not enough to draw attention from your TV.

We recommend adding a candle or plant on each side of the TV on the mantel and then one or two other knick-knacks that fit in with the room’s aesthetic. 

 

 

Considering your TV’s size

 

The size of your TV will also make a big impact on how you should decorate your fireplace. If you have a small screen, you can simply place it directly on the mantel and place your decor around it, following the ideas we provided for you above. However, if you have a much larger TV, you will most likely want to mount it above the mantel, giving you a bit more space to get creative when you decorate. Ensure you have considered your TV’s size and where you’ll place it before you start purchasing any candles and plants. 

 

Other things to consider

 

Before you start decorating using the ideas we’ve provided you, take a look at some of these other considerations:

 

The cables

 

TVs, unfortunately, come with quite a few cables, and these cables need to be plugged into something near the fireplace. If your nearest power source is much further below the mantel, the wires can become unsightly. Consider investing in a power adapter or cable protectors to move them out of the way. 

 

The fire

 

How often do you make use of your fireplace? And do you have protections in place to ensure your fire won’t affect your TV and your memorabilia? You may want to test out how hot your mantel gets before adding anything to it, and if it appears to get to a high temperature, you can put some precautions in place. 

 

FAQs

 

Is mounting a TV over a fireplace a bad idea?

 

Not necessarily. As mentioned in the considerations section, there are preventative measures you can put in place to ensure the safety of your TV. Having the electronic device above your mantel is an excellent idea if your fire has been redirected from the TV.

Your TV and fireplace are both central points of a room, and having them together can tie everything into place. People will know where to sit and face when they visit; it just makes your room seem more homey. If you want to redecorate your place, adding the TV above your fireplace could make all the difference. 

 

Can a fireplace damage a TV?

 

Yes, there is a chance that a fireplace can damage your TV. The best preventive measure for this is a quality mantel. If you purchase the cheapest one you can find, you may be unable to stop the heat from coming through. Luckily, Brick Anew has an extensive range of quality mantels to keep your fireplace and TV safe. 

Similarly, you can prevent flames and other bits of ash from spitting out of your fireplace by purchasing a protective screen. We also provide you with these, and you can speak to one of our experts to find the best one for your fireplace. 

 

What colors work best?

 

The colors you place on your fireplace mantel will depend on the room’s aesthetic and the color of your fireplace. If your fireplace is black or white, we recommend sticking with neutral colors, so you don’t overwhelm the room. This includes natural tones and shades such as browns and greys. 

Similarly, you may have a red brick or color fireplace. The best thing, in this case, is to use neutral shades such as black and white and the same color scheme as your fireplace. This will ensure nothing clashes, and your room will look classy.

It’s fall season, and some of you are already experiencing the excitement for these next few months. The crisp chill you feel as you walk outside into the fresh air, the crunch of the auburn/brown leaves as you walk across the floor, and the smell of pumpkin-spiced lattes can make anyone feel better after the end of summer. 

All these signs also mean it’s time to change the decorations on your mantel and incorporate them with the new season’s theme. However, you may be stuck if you’ve never decorated your fireplace before or have run out of ideas. But don’t worry; we have a ton of inspiration for you. 

 

10 ideas to transform your mantel

 

Scroll through these ten ideas and see if any of them sparks your creativity for your own mantel this fall:

 

Introduce fall colors

 

Everyone talks about fall colors, but what exactly are they? The colors most associated with this season tend to be earthy, such as orange, brown, red, and yellow. It provides a warm theme to your room, so consider choosing decor to add to your mantel in these colors. 

 

Bring the forest indoors

 

Foraging in the forest is a huge fall activity, so why not display your love for it on your mantel? Adding a few woven pieces representing a wicker basket and a few touches of nature, such as large pieces of dried grass and feathers, can go a long way this season. 

 

Express your love for the fall

 

Of course, if you add a few fall colors and leaves onto your mantel, you provide the room with an extra special look for the season. However, it doesn’t let people know exactly how much you love the fall. Consider purchasing a frame, adding a quote, or writing a chalkboard message about how special this season is. 

 

Add some LED candles

 

Adding more flames onto the mantel can be a cause for disaster, and you can’t always control it when it is out in the open. However, the dim glow from a candle represents the fall season better than anything else. So add a few LED lights to spruce up the area with minimal risk. 

 

Incorporate leaves

 

When you think of fall, what’s the first thing that pops into your mind? For many, its brown, and orange leaves fall off the trees and scatter all over the place. You can either purchase some fake leaves, make some out of paper, or collect and dry out real ones to add to your mantel. 

 

Don’t forget the pumpkins

 

You can’t get ready for the fall without introducing some form of pumpkin-themed items in your home. So why not add it to your mantel? Just like with the leaves, you can purchase fake plastic pumpkins to decorate across the fireplace area or add some real ones. 

 

Stand out with some gold

 

Gold isn’t always the first color people run to when they are decorating for the fall, but it actually works really well at providing a warm and rustic feeling to any area. You can introduce some gold-painted lampshades to the area, incorporate a throw, or even switch up your picture frames with a new gold theme. 

 

Keep it simple

 

Minimal is always the way to go when decorating your mantel, so it should be no different in the fall. Instead of cluttering the area with every fall-inspired item you find in the shops or your home, consider adding a few items to make the space look beautiful. 

 

Start layering it up

 

While we just said to keep things simple, a little bit of layering won’t hurt. For example, if you want to add some brown and red leaves on top of your orange ones to showcase all the colors, that will be perfect. Just make sure not to add too many different objects at once. 

 

Mix your warm and cool tones

 

People often focus too much on warm colors when decorating their mantel for the fall, but that doesn’t always have to be the case. In fact, if you introduce a few cool tones into your decor, you can keep the same feeling without overwhelming your room with too many of the same shades.

 

What to consider going into winter

 

Fall quickly moves into winter, and you feel like you have to redo your entire mantel again. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, you just need to switch out a couple of things, but you can still keep some of your fall decorations, so you don’t have to spend more money or put in too much more work. 

Here are some ideas you can consider as it starts to transform into the winter season:

 

Add some more candles

 

The winter is known for its dark nights and the holidays, both of which are known for lighting candles and sitting around with family. If you’ve already incorporated some LED candles onto your mantel from the fall, then why not keep them there and add a few more? You may also be able to spruce up the area by switching out some of your picture frames with some cozy winter scenes. 

 

Switch out the leaves for snowflakes

 

Undoubtedly, you most likely incorporated some form of fall leaves into your mantel setting, so it’s super easy to replace them with some wintery snowflakes. This could either be some of that fake fabric snow sprinkled across the area, or you can grab some paper and cut up your own snowflakes. It will make your fireplace appear like a winter wonderland, and you can sit down with a cup of hot cocoa, admiring the scene. 

 

 

Incorporate extra cool tones

 

When fall is behind us, so are all the warm tones we got used to being around. Now, it is time for some cooler colors, such as icy blue, white, grassy green, and purple. It can be really easy to do so, such as switching out a red throw for a blue one or changing your candles to represent the winter. You also may have already added some cool colors to begin with, so this transformation will be seamless. 

 

Decorating on a budget 

 

We understand that not everyone has the funds to finance an entirely new display every year when the fall comes around. Luckily, there are tons of ways you can make your mantel look beautiful without spending your entire life savings. 

Here are some things you can do if you’re looking to decorate your mantel for the fall on a budget:

 

Go thrift shopping

 

Thrift shopping doesn’t have to just be for buying clothes; it’s also a great way to find some unique decor pieces to add to your mantel. So, as the fall season ends each year, head on over to your local thrift shop and see what you can get for the following year. You’d be surprised how many beautiful pieces you can find, and you’ll have plenty of time to brainstorm ideas on how to decorate. 

 

Make your own decor

 

Not everything on your mantel has to be purchased from a shop. Some of the best-decorated mantels and fireplaces have been put together using DIY items. We have already mentioned these a few times, such as making your own fall leaves, spray painting some items with fall colors, and even crafting fake pumpkins out of some fabric. It’s a great way to spend very little while having fun at the same time. 

 

Use what you have

 

If you don’t feel like shopping at all, you can search your home for some items you already own that you can add to your mantel. People often forget about half the things they own, so you may be surprised at how many things you can use. Look out for items or pieces of decor with fall colors, and see what you can do with them. Sometimes you can even use these bits to make your own decor. 

 

 

FAQs

 

What are some DIY ideas for mantel decoration?

 

There are many creative ways to make your own fall mantel decorations from the comfort of your home. Here are some of our favorite items you can craft yourself using products you can find at most stores: 

 

Cut out some fall leaves

 

Fall leaves can be used for various decorations on your mantel, whether by just spreading them out or putting them together to make a garland. They are also incredibly easy to make. 

Get together some different colored pieces of paper; red, brown, and orange. On each piece of paper, trace the shape of leaves so you fill-up the page. You can decide to add different lines and textures to them as well if you like. Once ready, carefully cut each of them out. You should then have a stack of leaves ready for you to decorate with. You can also wrinkle them up and straighten them out for a more realistic effect. 

 

Toilet paper pumpkins

 

This one may sound a little odd, but it is one of the best ways to make decorative pumpkins for your mantel. 

Grab a few rolls of toilet paper, depending on how many pumpkins you want to make. You’ll also need some orange fabric that has been cut into squares big enough to surround the toilet rolls. Wrap up each toilet roll with these squares of fabric. You can then secure the material by tying it up with strips of green fabric. 

Voila! You then have a bunch of fake and inexpensive pumpkins to place above your fireplace for the fall. 

 

Create your own banner

 

If your mantel is high enough and your fireplace is protected with a door to prevent the flames from spitting out, you can make your own fall banner to hang above it. 

This DIY decoration is super easy. All you need is some colored paper of your choice, a marker, scissors, string, and clothing pegs. First, cut out squares of paper so they look like flags, and then on four of them, write the letters to the word ‘FALL’. Once they are ready, peg them up on the piece of string and hang them from each side of your mantel. 

 

It adds some more color and lets everyone know the theme of your mantel. 

 

What are some good Halloween ideas?

 

When many think of fall, they also think of Halloween. Therefore, it’s a great idea to use Halloween as the theme for your fall mantel decorations.

Here are some of our favorite ideas for decorating your mantel for Halloween:

 

Cobwebs

 

If you already have a great mantel decoration set up and don’t want to disrupt it too much, you can leave it just how it is! However, you can add a little spooky twist by spreading cobwebs over everything. This can be done by either purchasing some ready-made cobwebs from your local party store or making your own with some cotton wool. Pulling out the cotton wool will give you the impression of cobwebs and get your mantel ready for Halloween. 

 

Black wreath

 

If you have a wreath made out of leaves or sticks, you can make it a bit more scary by simply spray painting it black. This can be hung directly above the mantel, or you can just place it in the center, so it sits watching everyone in your room. You can even add some extra spooky additions, such as some small plastic spiders, or wrap some cobwebs around it like described in the above idea. 

 

Candy

 

While Halloween is known for tricks and spookiness, it is also known for treats and lots of candy. Sometimes you don’t want your mantel to be scary for Halloween, but you can still have a lot of fun by decorating it. Instead of dark colors, introduce some bright pieces into the mix representing the joy of eating your favorite candy. You can also grab some mason jars and fill them with different sweet treats for your guests to enjoy.

 

Final Thoughts

 

When it comes to decorating your mantel in a theme that suits the fall season, any of the listed ideas will be sure to liven up the room it’s in, and will provide feelings of warmth and comfort as you step into the room. Fall offers a fantastic variety of decorative options, whether that’s planning for halloween or preparing for winter, it’s the perfect time to express yourself!

For all of you who have ever moved into an older home and loved everything except the fireplace, this article is for you. There are few cases when you find your dream home and don’t want to change anything. And very often, the thing that people want to change is the fireplace.

Many fireplaces built in the 1970s were crafted using stone. However, this doesn’t fit in with the general aesthetic of many homes today and can make the room it’s in look outdated. Luckily, you don’t have to be stuck with this fireplace forever, and you can update it in several ways. 

Keep reading for tips on turning your fireplace into a more modern sight for the eyes. 

 

4 ways to update your fireplace

 

Once you’ve decided you want to update your old stone fireplace, you need to determine what method you wish to use to do so. Here are five of the most popular ways you can transform your fireplace and have it match the aesthetic of your room:

 

Paint over the stone

 

If you don’t mind the appearance of the stone but think the original color makes the area look older, you could simply just paint over it with your color of choice. However, if you don’t want just a solid painted look, the Brick-Anew Stone paint kit gives outdated stone a lighter, modern look that keeps the mottled look of natural stone.

Brick Anew Stone Fireplace Paint Kit 4.9 (17 reviews) A versatile kit for painting stone fireplaces a fresh and modern look at economical prices From $219 View product

Replace with wooden paneling

 

Wood is one of the best materials to update your fireplace with, and that’s because it never seems to go out of date. It goes with so many different types of aesthetics, and you can decorate it to fit in with your room. 

You can choose between different types of wood because the paneling can be painted before you apply it. There is a lot of variety, from white to the basic brown wooden finish. 

 

Add color with tile

 

Tile isn’t just made for kitchens and bathrooms; it can also be a great way to update your stone fireplace with a wide range of different colors. The great part is, unlike paint and wood, you don’t have to opt for just one color; you can incorporate any type of pattern or design that you want into it. 

You also don’t have to be a genius to install tile; it shouldn’t take too long on a small area like a fireplace. It’s also incredibly nice to deal with in the long run, as it is easy to maintain. Unlike stone, where you have to scrub and deep clean it regularly, tile can be wiped down and look good as new. 

 

Update with stone veneer

 

Have you ever heard of stone veneer? If not, an excellent way to think of it is like when you get veneers on your teeth. You cover up your old, discolored teeth with a new set of sparkling white teeth, and you feel like new! The same applies to your 70s stone fireplace.

Stone veneers are lighter and cheaper versions of the stone built into your fireplace, meaning you don’t have to spend too much to update the overall look. You can choose different styles to get a more modern look, and they don’t take long to install either. It is one of the most perfect solutions. 

 

Other things to consider

 

When updating your 1970s stone fireplace, you have to consider a few more things before you get started:

 

Safety

 

While most of the processes involved in updating your stone fireplace are straightforward, there are still some precautions you’ll need to put in place to ensure your safety. Without the proper installation, your fireplace can become a hazard in the long run. 

Make sure you have cleaned out your fireplace before you get started in case there are any harmful fumes or bits of ash in the way. It is also always advised to wear some form of gloves and eye protection when installing new materials. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional before you get started. 

 

Removing the stone

 

While many of the above methods for updating your fireplace simply involve covering up the old stone, you may want to remove it first. This is especially the case when you want to start entirely from scratch to ensure the safety of your fireplace in the long run. 

Make sure you wear the right protection and use a chisel to remove the mantel if you have one. If there is mortar holding all the stones in place, use the same chisel to remove the mortar and hit the back of the stone with a mallet until you hear a crack. Continue to do this until all the stone and mortar have been removed. 

 

The right products

 

We’ve already mentioned purchasing the right paint and kits for your stone fireplace, but once it’s updated, there are some other products you may want to get. First of all, a mantel is an important part of a fireplace that protects the above wall from heat while providing a decorative space for the room. Brick Anew offers a wide range of quality mantels you can browse here. 

Similarly, you may also want to consider investing in one of Brick Anew’s fireplace doors. They keep the rest of your room safe from any popping embers as your fire dies down and they help keep out cold drafts when the fire isn’t burning. 

 

 

What look are you going for?

 

Unsure of what color to update your fireplace with? Or what style will best match your aesthetic? Try considering one of the following styles:

 

Modern

 

All the ways we’ve mentioned you can update your fireplace will provide you with a more modern look. But the colors you use and how you style it will make or break the overall look. Typically, a modern fireplace will be a neutral shade like black, white, or tan. 

If you’ve decided to use tile, a neutral shade with a pop of color can transform your entire room and give you a unique and modern look as well. If you already have vibrant colors in your room, ignore this and stick to all-over neutral shades. 

 

Traditional

 

A traditional or ‘classic’ look will depend on your own definition. However, we believe that paint, stone veneers, and concrete are the best methods to update your fireplace to gain a traditional style. You can update the 1970’s stone, but you still maintain some of the original look.

The best way to choose a color for this classic style is by choosing a shade that complements the furniture and decor in the room. Neutral colors work best since they go with practically any style of decor. 

 

Rustic

 

Warm and rustic is a beautiful feeling to walk into when you’re coming home. It makes you feel like it’s the fall season all year round and as though you’re living in your very own farmhouse. Due to this, we believe that if you want a rustic look for your fireplace, replace your stone with wooden paneling. 

Typically, it’s best to stick to the original brown wooden color, but sometimes a grey or white can work as well, depending on the rest of the furniture and decor in your room. You’ll need to consider the color as soon as you decide you want wooden paneling because it’s not as easy to paint as other materials. 

If you can’t decide which to go for, read our guide on how to choose between modern and rustic fireplace mantels here.

 

FAQs

 

How can I decorate my mantel?

 

Once you’ve perfected your updated fireplace, it’s time to decorate your mantel to give your room an extra edge. Here are some ideas you may want to consider when decorating your mantel:

 

Stick to minimalism

 

When it comes to mantels, many people get very overexcited and want to add everything they can. However, adding too many objects to your mantel can make it appear cluttered and ruin your overall updated look. The best thing to do is stick to around five or six items in total and make sure they all match the overall color scheme and aesthetic of your room and fireplace. 

 

Add some plants

 

Not everyone has a green thumb, but if you do, you’ll definitely want to add plants to your mantel.  They look fresh and go with almost any aesthetic. If you aren’t great with plants or don’t want to take your time and effort caring for real ones, consider faux. There are so many choices that look realistic, you’ll be sure to find the perfect ones for your mantel.

Showcase your photos

 

We all know that mantels are made for showing off family members, loved ones, and treasured memories, so why not do it yourself? No matter the photo, they will most likely go with your chosen fireplace style and the rest of the furniture and decor in the room. The only thing you’ll need to consider is the style of the picture frames you’ll be using. Ensure the color matches the rest of the scheme you’ve already chosen. 

 

Do I need to call a professional?

 

Not necessarily. Not everyone needs to hire a professional to update their 1970s stone fireplace, especially if all you’re doing is painting or applying some concrete. However, if you’ve never done any form of DIY yourself and you don’t know where to start, then you may want to call a professional, even if it’s just for a consultation. 

Luckily, a fireplace update doesn’t normally cost too much money in labor if you’ve purchased the materials beforehand. If you want a quality job, then a professional will definitely get it done for you. 

 

What are the latest trends in fireplaces?

 

There are a few different trends circulating the fireplace world at the moment:

 

Marble

 

Marble has become gradually more popular over the years, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Therefore it’s no surprise that people are starting to incorporate marble into their fireplaces. If you want the ultimate modern look, you can choose a sleek piece of marble once you’ve removed your old stone fireplace. However, keep in mind that this isn’t the cheapest option around. 

 

Minimalism

 

Many people opt for very basic and smooth looks for the fireplace, and they tie into rooms very well. Instead of fancy patterns on tile or hand-carved motifs above the fireplace, people opt for a plan and neutral color for the entire design. Most of the time, the fireplace will even blend into the wall surrounding it. 

 

Room dividers 

 

Have you considered getting a room divider but also want a fireplace? Then, you may want to have both in one! People are now building new walls in their homes that act as room dividers with the fireplace designed inside of them. You can now have a bedroom and separate home office or a living room and dining room while enjoying the heat of a beautiful fireplace.

We’ve walked hundreds of homeowners through the process of painting their fireplaces with the Frosted Sunshine paint kit.  The golden-grey tones in the paint really brighten and open up a space.

Many homeowners find themselves with the desire to add a few new decorations to tie the room together.  Others need to replace some outdated furniture that looked fine with the old fireplace but is a bit shabby with the new one.

We chose these pieces specifically for their high-quality, their good reviews, and the way they go seamlessly with the frosted sunshine paint kit.

Choosing Furniture

This DHP Andora Coil Sofa in Faux Leather doubles as a futon.  You’ll have plenty of space for an extra guest or just to get extra comfy for a movie night.

The couch is well rated and the faux leather will hold up over time.  The seats have spring coils for extra support and long-use.Reviewers say it’s easy to assemble and quick to pull out into the futon.  And at under $350, it’s a great value for the money.This Armless Floral Accent Chair from Best Choice Products has beautiful colors on a light ivory background.  It’s the perfect way to add some color to your living room.

Reviewers love the chairs, though some buyers have found them a little bit short.Adding bright colors, especially in such a vibrant pattern is an easy way to make your space sand out.  This is a head-turning piece, and you’re sure to get compliments.This Antique Tobacco Coffee Table by Linon Home Dcor is a great accent to the warm tones in your brick, especially if you have a mantel or mantle shelf in a similar color.

For the $100 price, it is a great value.  Reviewers say it’s relatively easy to assemble and that it holds up well over time.Adding bright colors, especially in such a vibrant pattern is an easy way to make your space sand out.  This is a head-turning piece, and you’re sure to get compliments.

Adding Decorations

These birch twigs from ECOVENIK with this chic turquoise vase from VANCORE would be a lovely addition to a mantel.  The tones in the Frosted Sunshine kit work well with the shabby chic/farmhouse decor that has become more and more popular.You could use faux flowers or greenery instead of the branches if that won’t work well in your space.  If the season is right and you don’t mind the extra work, you can use live flowers as well!This COTULIN Modern Table Lamp has a unique gold base adds a bit of elegance to your space, especially if you don’t have any metallic accents left into your space.  Lamps look nice in pairs of two, sitting on either end of a couch or long table.

If you already have nice lighting in your space, try using golden lightbulbs in your lamps.  During the day, you won’t need to turn them on, but at night they add lovely ambiance along with your fire.These Vintage LED Edison Bulbs are dimmable so you can adjust the brightness to set the mood.  Adjustable bulbs are a great way to control your evening atmosphere, from industrial to romantic.Adding pictures of you and your family to your mantel is an awesome way to make your living room feel like home.  You can replace the pictures yearly or choose some old favorites to keep all the time.Any of these cute frames would go very well with the cream tones in your Frosted Sunshine kit.  Think about what pictures you want to put in the frames and the rest of your decor in your room.  This can help with deciding on the final color.

Final Thoughts

A new fireplace gives your whole room a new feel.  It can be exciting, but it may also make you realize that your furniture and decor was a little bit outdated.

By investing in a new sofa or getting some picture frames to match the fireplaces, you can tie the whole room together without breaking the bank.  Don’t forget to send us pictures to our customer service email!

So you’ve breathed new life into your tired old fireplace with the Brick-Anew Twilight Taupe Paint Kit and it looks AMAZING (if you do say so yourself!) Now what about the rest of your room? Could it use a little sprucing up as well?

If the answer is yes, you’re in luck! Our design team has put together 10 fresh new ideas to help you create a bright, modern space to coordinate beautifully with your new Twilight Taupe fireplace without breaking the bank:

 

1. Add a Colorful Rug

2. Change Your Furniture

Has your sofa seen better days?  It just might be time to invest in a sleek new model.  Curl up in front of the fireplace on this modern cream-colored sofa from Stone & Beam.  Even though it looks expensive, this sofa is affordable for almost any budget.  The neutral background allows you to add pillows to match your rug or the season.  Super cozy and comfortable, it’s the perfect spot to unwind by the fireplace after a long day.

3. Purchase a Few Accent Pillows

Accent pillows add color to a neutral couch and compliment the shades in the rug.  Light blue, cream, and tan add a subtle and relaxing vibe. We love the textured look of these Burlap Linen Square Throw Pillows from Home Brilliant.

4. Add a Coffee or Accent Table

Now for a coffee table! This modern farmhouse coffee table from Liberty Furniture looks perfect with its storage drawers and wood top. It’s the perfect combination of warm wood paired with creamy white. Throw in one of their matching end tables to complete the look!

5. Update Your Entertainment Center

6. Display Some Artwork or a Mirror

Remember that oriental rug we mentioned? Here’s three examples of paintings that would compliment it well:

7. Dress Up Your Mantel

Once you’ve found that perfect centerpiece for your mantel, finish it off with some smaller decor that helps wrap it all together. These Rustic Candlesticks from Deco 79 and this Textured Modern Vase from Stone & Beam both make great additions to subtle tan tones of your Twilight Taupe brick.

8. Don’t Forget Lamps

9. Add a Touch of Nature

10. Get a Festive Bar Cart

Hopefully, you’ve been inspired to take a look at your space after your fireplace remodel and see what else in the room might need a little update.  Even if your budget doesn’t allow everything to be done at once, even a few small changes can make a big impact.  Enjoy!

WATCH: New homeowners Katie & Boo transform their old brick fireplace into the centerpiece of their living room using Brick-Anew.

When Katie first called us, we knew that her husband, Boo, was skeptical about painting over their brick fireplace.

Which, I might add, is totally understandable. Preserving and restoring old brick can make for a great aesthetic, and there’s enough nauseating pictures of poorly painted fireplaces floating around the web to make someone nervous about giving it a shot. But if Katie wants the modern, updated look of painted brick, and Boo wants to keep the look of natural brick, is there a solution?Yes, there is. This is a situation we’ve heard a thousand times at Brick-Anew. And with our fireplace paint kit, you get the best of both worlds!

Take a look at the beautiful results they achieved with our Twilight Taupe color scheme:

Items Featured In Video

[woodmart_shortcode_products_widget show=”product_ids” hide_free=”0″ show_hidden=”0″ include_products=”2973, 3956″]

BEFORE

AFTER

One of the best parts about Twilight Taupe is how it opens up the room while still complementing dark, warm tones like wood and leather. Katie and Boo’s fireplace is the perfect example of this. Apparently it also makes the perfect backdrop for the family photo!Thank you Katie & Boo for sending in this great video. The best part about Brick-Anew paint is the freedom of the process, and we love seeing our customers having fun with it! Our kits include detailed instructions that teach you how to get the look that you want, so the finished result will be completely unique to your home.

So when it comes to painting old brick or preserving it, there really are no wrong answers. But maybe some answers are more right than others… You chose well, Katie!

Who knew painted stone could look so natural?

Brick-Anew customer, Pat, purchased the twilight taupe Brick-Anew kit to remodel her outdated stone fireplace. Tired of looking at her dark stone, Pat wanted a lighter look.

Pat really wanted her fireplace to look like natural stone and not have a solid painted look. While researching some different options, she found Brick-Anew, and decided to give it a try.

“I played around with the application a bit. The paint colors in the kit looked amazing and complimented each other for a natural look.”

After Pat completed the project, her family and friends couldn’t believe the dramatic change.

“Some people thought we’d changed out the stone. They really couldn’t believe it was painted! I’m very happy with the kit and my new fireplace.”

Pat, we’re impressed! You did a great job.

 

Before using the Brick-Anew Stone Fireplace Paint Kit

After using the Brick-Anew Stone Fireplace Paint Kit

Remodel your outdated, drab brick fireplace with….you guessed it, Brick Paint!

Fall is just around the corner.  Before you know it, Thanksgiving will be here and relatives will be knocking on your door.  Don’t be embarrassed another year by that ugly old fireplace.

Nicole was dealing with that same situation a few months ago.  She was looking for a way to remodel her fireplace and update the look of her dull drab brick. She didn’t want to spend a lot of money so she knew her choices on how to do the project would be somewhat limited.

“I thought about resurfacing the fireplace with cultured stone or a brick veneer,” she explains. “So I contacted a brick mason to check out how much it would cost. The price he gave me was ridiculous.”

That’s when she started researching “faux painted brick”.  Brick painting was something she had been interested in learning more about.  After looking around on the internet for a while, she says she stumbled onto the Brick-Anew website.

Looking over all the before/after pictures, Nicole was impressed by the “everyday people” who had created beautiful marble-looking fireplaces just by painting their existing brick.

“I just knew Brick-Anew brick paint couldn’t be that easy to use but thought I’d give it a try. After all, what did I have to lose?”

But guess what? She says the process ended up being so much easier than she thought. “The end results were shocking and incredible. “I had so many compliments from friends and family. When they asked who I had hired to paint my brick, I just pointed to myself.” I’m so proud.”

The Brick-Anew brick painting kit can transform any outdated brick fireplace in a snap.  With easy step-by-step instructions and all the materials you need to do the job, you don’t need to be a DIY pro.

We feature lots and lots of fireplace makeovers on the Brick-Anew blog, and there’s a reason for that–we love ’em! (more…)