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Fireplaces
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Fireplaces, Hold the Fire
Camouflage an Empty Firebox with These Clever Solutions
Let me start by saying that this ideabook is written with the cautious optimism of one who is sincerely hoping warmer weather is on its way. Maybe you're in a similar boat, it's already warming up in your neck of the woods, or your fireplace is of the non-functioning variety. Maybe you're just sick of lighting a dang fire. Regardless, let's ponder what we'll do with the fireplace when — hopefully someday soon — it's rendered useless thanks to glorious sunny days. Here are a few ideas.
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| Let's start with the easiest solution: The art of camouflage. Cover up the view of that dusty box with some expertly placed flowers, and all of a sudden the lack of a fire is no longer the focal point of the room. |
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| Even a small arrangement can work its magic. The goal is not necessarily full coverage, but rather breaking up the gaping black hole in the center of the space. |
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| After a thorough cleaning and with utter certainty that the chimney is closed, a pile of books or magazines could safely fill the spot until fall. Just no book burning jokes, please. |
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| The fail-safe solution? A crowd of candles. This idea is great for non-functioning fireplaces too. You'll get the glow of the fire without all the hassle of hauling wood. |
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by Liz Stewart
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| If you go the candle route, don't skimp on the number. Pick pillars of various sizes and heights — the more you use, the more inviting it will look. |
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by Gast Architects
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| Nothing to see here, folks! A piece of furniture or two positioned in front of the fireplace puts it out of view. |
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| This trick doesn't require major rearranging either; a stool sneakily slid in front does the job just fine. |
by SFGIRLBYBAY
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An artistic fireplace screen like this one looks good all on its own, and hides the old soot completely.
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by Kasey Buick
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| Get creative with decorative objects and collections. Vintage suitcases, for example, are just the right size to fill the space. |
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Sculptural pieces or objects fill the void and introduce some personality to the firebox too.
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| For decorative fireplaces or mantles, a mirror in front not only covers things up, it looks sleek, and reflects light (pretty much the opposite of a big gaping hole). |
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| This mirrored screen serves the same purpose. |
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| Maybe it's counter-intuitive, but when you're done with your fireplace for the season, why not fill it with wood? |
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| Pile it high... |
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| ... Or not quite as much. Just make sure to use more wood than you would if you were actually building a fire — it looks more purposeful that way.
Do you cover up the fireplace when it's not in use? Tell us how in the comments. More fireplace ideas: Tiled Fireplace Surrounds Fireplaces: They're Not Just for the Living Room Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot with Fireplaces |
Comments
Mike I have a dark slate fireplace with black bricks lining it and my walls are ultra pure white. It isn't functional so I have 2 white pillar candles and I have lined the inside with white lights so you can't see the lights. When I feel like a calm mood I light the 2 candles, when I want to draw more attention to the fireplace I'll switch on the lights for a really nice glow.
2 years ago · Like
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Lily Gahagan Sounds like a great idea, @madkins. I've also always liked the look of a cluster of Christmas lights arranged in the firebox.
2 years ago · Like
Build.com I think I like the idea of filling the fireplace with stacks of wood the best. Seems to fit the purpose, while adding style and sophistication. If I could afford it, I would go for a decorative screen, I really like the style of this silhouette one: http://www.build.com/meyda-tiffany-23365-rustic-country-fireplace-screen-from-the-old-forge-firescreen-collection/p252529
2 years ago · Like
Ginger I like the wood too-it adds that comfy rustic note. I tried lots of candles in a non- functiong fireplace and they left black sooty streaks on the wall above- cheap candles I guess.
2 years ago · Like
Karen Ho Fatt A little harder to hide the contemporary fireplaces that are mounted high on the walls. As in picture 15- the fireplace looks a little lonely and stark. It needs something and a stainless steel frame might do the trick. It would look more like a picture on the wall as opposed to a hole in the wall.
2 years ago · Like
InterDesign Studio In the off-season, I fill my small firebox opening with a large rustic wood bowl on an iron stand. 
2 years ago · Like
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ambiadecorator I love the suitcase one - it works so well with the lovely vintage look of the room. Its nice to see ideas beyond the usual candles - although I like that look too, especially the vibrant room with the colored candles. Love that whole room too.
2 years ago · Like
neera2007 i have a non-functioning brick fireplace that is on one side of my Kitchen. I'm thinking about custom built infor a wine rack and wine glasses.
9 months ago · Like
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azstrawn Ginger....if you liked the look of candles, but not the mess, try what I did. I placed lots of clear glass containers, various sizes, & put a Flameless candle in each one. They are on timers or remote control & the glass adds sparkle.
8 months ago · Like
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Ideabook updated on March 14, 2011.
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