Cue the makeover montage
Because a fireplace is often the focal point of a living space—especially in older houses where it was likely a significant source of heat back in the day—doing a fireplace makeover can dramatically transform a house. To inspire your own fireplace facelift, we rounded up our favorite fireplace remodel ideas. These span from complete renovations to simple cosmetic upgrades you can do in a weekend or even an evening.
1. Paint the Brick White
One of the most impactful, yet simplest, fireplace remodel ideas is the white-painted brick fireplace. All you need is some white paint and a long afternoon to get the modern brick fireplace of your dreams.
2. No Really, Paint the Brick White
Don’t just stop at the fireplace surround, paint the inside of the brick fireplace (the insert) too. For an ultra-modern look that will make the fireplace really pop, paint the grout joints gray or black.
3. Or Paint It Blue
While everyone else is doing a white fireplace remodel, why not do a blue one? This navy blue painted brick fireplace also comes together in a weekend and is perfect for those looking for a little color.
4. Marble-ize the Mantel
A white marble mantel is the epitome of fireplace luxury and looks lovely in a grand parlour or spacious living room. For a similar look that’s less expensive, opt for quartz or granite.
5. Marble-ize the Surround and Hearth
Did you know it’s possible to keep your mantel but reface your fireplace surround and hearth? It takes a bit of work, but you can pry the mantel off in one piece and set it aside. This particular fireplace pairs new marble with an old wood mantel for a beautiful modern-vintage look.
6. Coordinate Your Fireplace Decor
Not every fireplace needs an extreme makeover. If you’re bored with how yours looks but don’t want to make big changes, try updating the decor that surrounds it. Simply pick out a few pieces of decor for the mantel and the fireplace surround that match your couch color or perhaps the predominant hue in a nearby painting. Your room will look pulled together in a flash. Bonus if you can coordinate with fresh flowers.
7. Dress Up the Hearth
Another fast makeover idea? Dress up your hearth with sculptures and plants. And don’t overlook your fireplace grate area. Replace a worn-down grate with a new one or, better yet, opt for a set of fireplace andirons in a sleek ball shape.
8. Mix Old and New
There’s just something so charming about an exposed brick fireplace, and if you’re lucky enough to have an old one that’s in decent shape, consider planning your fireplace remodel around it. For instance, you can pair old red bricks with a brand-new white wood mantel for a vintage-inspired look that fits in a modern home.
9. Go Ultra Modern
Between the stone surround and concrete hearth, this ultra modern fireplace could look a little cold. But cozy furniture, warm lights, and light hardwood floors add softness and help balance the look.
10. Add Metallic Accents
While the owners of this house updated the fireplace with a modern white mantel and surround, they kept the antique stone hearth. What’s more, they accessorized the fireplace with antique brass candlesticks and a copper wood holder to pay tribute to the original style of the house. A modern brass mirror completes the look.
11. Create a Shiplap Focal Point
In case you’re unfamiliar with the interior design technique, shiplap is a type of wood paneling that’s exploded in popularity due to its ability to add warmth, texture, and rustic charm to any space. Instead of a traditional shiplap accent wall, why not do a shiplap fireplace accent wall? It’s both chic and pretty easy to DIY (read our shiplap fireplace makeover article to learn exactly how).
12. Or Try a Natural-Wood Shiplap
While white shiplap is probably the most popular version of the shiplap trend, natural wood shiplap looks equally gorgeous on a fireplace.
13. Pick a Pattern
To really make your fireplace stand out, do a tile surround with a fun pattern. This particular fireplace actually uses tiles leftover from a kitchen counter remodel, which can be a great way to create a cohesive look between your living room and kitchen while saving money.
14. Fashion a Wall Insert for Wood
While we love the gorgeous light gray brick used in this fireplace remodel, we can’t help but stare at the elegant wall insert of stacked logs. Yes, it’s practical, but we really love how it makes the wood feel like part of the decor.
15. Replace the Logs with Stones
To modernize your gas fireplace fast, switch out the logs or coals for large round fireplace stones. The stylish minimalist balls make a big impact despite their compact size and can quickly give your fireplace an easy makeover.
