update of fireplace

9 years ago

I need help deciding how to update or encase the fireplace. The room will be the master bedroom. Right now it's in the middle of the room. We are going to put two rooms behind it, one a bathroom and one a closet.
I would love ideas on what to do - paint the brick, encase it in wood, etc? What do I do with the 2 shelves?

Featured Answer

ptreckel

9 years ago

Beautiful! Leave it alone. Do nothing to it. Do not paint or encase it. Take everything off the shelves. Allow the fireplace to be the centerpiece of the room. Then, perhaps, add only select pieces to the shelves to enhance the brick structure. You are lucky!

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Comments (8)

Bev
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
This looks like a perfect question for "This Old House"! I googled renovations for a vintage brick free standing fireplace and here are some photos that may help:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/320670435946772156/

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/545850417311075420/

I did ask my husband if he has ever seen "This Old House" tackle what you want done and he said no. He has seen where they have taken out a free standing fireplace when renovating a house.
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houssaon
9 years ago
I would just clean it with muriatic acid or have it done. Also, have the fireplace professionally checked unless you don't ever intend to use it.
chiflipper
9 years ago
Talk about ROMANCE! Get it cleaned inside and out and leave it in place. Making "whoopee" by firelight is the bomb.
flyr4fun
9 years ago
Love that fireplace. So much character.
T. J.
9 years ago
OMG don't do a thing beside cleaning it! It's gorgeous!!!!! I wish I had that in my master bedroom!!
emmarene9
9 years ago
The OP intends to have a wall behind the fireplace. I think an architect is needed. Do not paint it, do not try to change the shelves. How old is the house?
Sharon H
Original Author
9 years ago
Thanks for the comments! I was thinking of leaving it alone and then yesterday wondered if I should consider an update. I appreciate your thoughts. Thanks for the tip on the muriatic acid.

The house was built in the 1850s, but this room was an addition; it's not documented when but I suspect around 1900. It is truly a gem and we are lucky to have found it!