What Should We Do With This Gigantic Fireplace That Needs Updating??

4 years ago

We have a gigantic fireplace (4-1/2 ft tall, 5-1/2 ft wide opening) that has baffled us for years because the upper half, particularly above the logs, is an eyesore. Also, the fireplace is too large for a screen, is offset on the wall, and is offset within the opening because of the wood storage/planter area. We just tried painting it and would like to update it by possibly reducing the opening, adding a mantel/surround, etc, on a budget. Currently it has unused gas logs, so we would rather it be empty/decorated or switched to an electric insert. We've thought about adding a wood surround for dimension (but what shape?), adding herringbone tiles inside (but there are so many weird angles/jogs inside), removing the wood storage/planter compartment (but concerned that it is structural). Any thoughts/ideas would be greatly appreciated!!

Wide View Above (would like to incorporate something like floating shelves on the side to hold a larger tv, etc.)

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Comments (4)

drdeb1234
4 years ago
Maybe consider painting the whole thing dark grey or black. It will minimize the appearance of the fireplace (as as a bonus camouflage the tv, which should be on a much larger base, by the way)
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BeverlyFLADeziner
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
What room is this? Dining Room????

I have been watching Escape to the Country the British equivalent of House Hunters and most would kill for such a lovely feature in their home.

I would use gas logs that are lifted off the floor using andirons and add all the other accessories appropriate for this type of fireplace. I'm guessing you might be living in some type of colonial style home.
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calidesign
4 years ago
Get a large, decorative fire screen to set on the hearth that spans the length of the gas logs plus the extra insert brick area. Switching out gas to electric would likely be a downgrade. Then get a large console that fits on the right of the hearth, all the way to the wall, where you can place your tv.
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lawsonch19
4 years ago
I LOVE youor fireplace. I would just paint the brick log-holder section black so that it will recede and highlight the shape the open hearth.