It’s almost snuggle season here in Texas and for those of us that daydream of baking homemade cookies and curling up by a crackling fire with a special someone, there’s one thing that must be done first. It’s time to update that fireplace! Dirty, unkept, dreary and out-of-date fireplaces are not just an eyesore for the entire room; they’re not exactly warm and inviting either.
Simple Solutions
If you find yourself staring at a dated, brick fireplace from the ‘80s that you would like to bring into the modern world–without a major renovation–consider whitewashing. Whitewashing a brick fireplace is a simple enough project to tackle over a weekend and can make a space look both elegant and vintage.
Replace the Mantel
Is your fireplace completely lackluster? Try swapping out your standard mantle with a large reclaimed wooden beam. The addition of subway tile or colorful, Mediterranean-style ceramic tiles modernizes the space and creates a focal point for the entire room.
Fake It ‘Til You Make It!
If you don’t already have a fireplace in your home, and don’t want a major renovation but want the visual interest it provides, consider installing a faux fireplace. Electric fireplaces are affordable, install easily, don’t take up a lot of space and are energy efficient.