Often when we’re called in to renovate a fireplace, the goal is to update and modernize a tired, old one. One recent re-do, however, had the opposite goal: to add some character and a sense of history to a brand-new fireplace.
Our clients, a young couple, became first-time homeowners with the purchase of a freshly minted townhouse in Rosslyn. They were eager to inject a more soulful style into the nondescript interiors (they’re big fans of HGTV’s Fixer Upper and love the rustic, informal looks created by star Joanna Gaines). The living room’s existing gas fireplace, in particular, cried out for TLC:
The fireplace is centered on a short wall next to the staircase. On either side, there is less than a foot to spare. I wanted to reimagine these narrow, under-used spaces in my design. Another design consideration: the couple’s new, flat-screen television, which would soon be mounted over the fireplace. As you can see, when in position, the large TV came right to the edges of the fireplace wall, overwhelming the already-tight space.
My new vision included a character-enhancing mix of materials for the fireplace wall and surround. I also specified built-in shelves and storage compartments to flank the fireplace and to fill in those awkward spaces. Here’s a peek at our presentation board, with a few inspiration photos and a rendering of the proposed redesign:
And here’s a work-in-progress look at the design taking shape:
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For a casual look, we installed rough-hewn, shiplap paneling above the hefty, new zebra-wood mantel. Distressed bricks add time-worn appeal and the unusual layout pattern (center-section bricks are vertically placed and the two end-caps are horizontally placed) adds interest.
The detail shot above highlights the new upper shelves and lower storage compartments. Glass shelves don’t add visual weight to the tight spaces. Streamlined, push-open doors — without distracting hardware — will ultimately hide all those unsightly but ever-necessary cables and cords in the lower areas.
The end result (minus a few finishing touches) balances a rustic, homey aesthetic with the realities of modern living:
See how the newly introduced built-ins — which are almost flush with the fireplace wall — help to offset the TV’s girth? Now the screen “fits” better in the space.
LED lights cast a warm glow on display objects and enhance the overall ambiance of the interior architecture and design. Sumptuous new window panels don’t hurt, either, and go a long way toward softening that weighty corner of the room.
The fireplace makeover suits our clients’ soulful style to a tee and proves that some things look better with a little age on them (or at least the appearance of age). A roaring fire may not be top of mind as we head into June, but the summer is actually a great time for a remodel — if you start now, your fireplace will be picture-perfect before the temperature starts to dip.
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