The Faux Fireplace: A Year-Round Home Accessory

The warm look of a hearth, no chimney required

I'm a bilingual writer based in the Caribbean. I specialize in interior design, architecture, culture and travel. I work as a local editor for NileGuide.com, a travel writer for The New York Times Company's About.com and a contributor for Houzz, Livestrong and Revista Decoración Plus (Spanish interior design magazine). Previously, I worked at FashionTV, ViVVVA and California Home + Design Magazine. For more information visit: melissaalvarado.com

I'm a bilingual writer based in the Caribbean. I specialize in interior... More »

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Because I live in a tropical island, I have no need for a fireplace, but I love the look it gives to a room. A fireplace serves as an ideal focal point in a space, especially because it can be decorated in many different ways.

Determined to have the feeling of a fireplace during the holidays in my home, I decided to add a make-believe mantle to my living room. Here are some examples and tips for implementing a faux fireplace of your own.

traditional bedroom Painted Room Interiors

by Jean Molesworth Kee

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When you find that coveted mantle, consider leaving it as-is. This faux fireplace was not painted. Instead, its natural texture of stripped pine brings a rustic aura and patina style to the living room.

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by Dreamy Whites

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For those who want to add a faux fireplace that doesn't grab all of the attention, a coat of fresh paint will do the trick. In an all-white scheme like this one, the white mantle remains silent, working as a gorgeous pedestal for mementos and collections.

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by Dreamy Whites

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In another shot of the same mantle, we can see every detail of the piece. It's quite rustic and works very well with the shabby chic décor.

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by cke interior design llc

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If the idea of a make-believe fireplace leaves you missing the warmth and allure of fire, place candles inside. Add some soft lighting for a cozy and romantic room.

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by Jennifer Brouwer (Jennifer Brouwer Design)

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Here's another take on the candlelight idea, where candles are strategically placed on different levels to add drama.

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by Hann Builders

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Get creative with your hearth look by adding touches of style to the body of the piece. Blue tiles adorn an archway in this "hacienda kitchen."

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by Two Story Cottage

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You can fill your fireplace with anything. A mirror placed inside this faux fireplace adds dimension and an unexpected reflection of the room.

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by SFGIRLBYBAY

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A faux fireplace can also frame an interesting accessory, like this chair with books piled on it. With so many ways to use them, I can't wait to have my own faux fireplace. Wish me luck!

Do you have a faux fireplace? Please share a picture of it below. I'd love to see it!

More:
Make Your Fireplace the Focal Point

Design Details: Tiled Fireplace Surrounds

Surround Your Fireplace With Brick, Tile or Stone

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Comments

Boutique-de-la-Mer.com says:

Great post - I dream of one day having a faux fireplace. Great job!

5 months ago · Like ·

Kimberly Niesz says:

Wonderful inspiration! About 6 or 7 years ago in our previous home, I used a salvaged mantle as my headboard. This is what it looked like then and updated a few years later.

I shared the details of its construction here:
http://www.nieszvintagefabric.blogspot.com/2007/04/easy-weekend-project-mantle-headboard.html

5 months ago · Like

Melissa Alvarado Sierra says:

Thanks, Marie! Great idea, nieszvintage!

5 months ago · Like

annalaye says:

I have a faux fireplace in my livingroom and alot of people think it's real. If you want one, try calling a salvage or demolition company. Mine was given to me by a friend before they tore down a farmhouse on the family property, but some demolition companies will let you get things out before they destroy buildings if you're willing to get your hands dirty and able to take off the property fast. I love my mantle and it's history!!!!

5 months ago · Like

gwen mckay says:

Interesting.............hmmm im thinking

5 months ago · Like

Design says:

This was a renovation of our son's room in Sydney Australia. At the time we were very interested in mosaics and decided to make a mosaic flame for this disused mantlepiece. Thought I would add this pic to your great collection of images

5 months ago · Like

fredericklc says:

You guys can keep the fireplaces, I want to be a writer based in the Carribean!

5 months ago · Like

scarbowcow says:

Design, that mosaic fire is wonderful for a child's room! Such a delightful was to spark (pardon the expression) a child's imagination - playing house, playing camp-out. What fun!

5 months ago · Like

Melissa Alvarado Sierra says:

Very ingenious, Design. Love the mantle and the entire room! Your son's very lucky!

5 months ago · Like

franki7 says:

Needless to say, I really love these ideas as I, too, have a fireplace "setting" in the living area (using it to display art) and as a "headboard" over a twin bed. Great minds..and all that... franki

5 months ago · Like

iluv2decor8 says:

We bought this house last year and had 13' of dead space in the living room. I added arched niche bookcases and a faux fireplace complete with travertine tile interior, granite hearth and surround and white mantel. It has added warmth and much needed design. I have shown both before and after.