A fireplace is always a great way to level up your living space. That is because you are able to get warmth, comfort, and an inviting ambiance from a single fireplace. However, if you own an outdated fireplace, you might miss out on a lot. The aesthetics may be subpar, and you might be left wondering how to breathe new life into your living space.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various creative ways you can update and modernize your stone fireplace. Whether you prefer making slight changes or a complete makeover of your fireplace, we have you covered.
Carry out an assessment.
First and foremost, before you embark on any fireplace renovation project, it is crucial to start with a thorough assessment. Here are some key factors to consider:
Safety
Begin by assessing whether your fireplace is safe to use. If you have any doubts, it is best to consult with a fireplace specialist. Your top priority when undertaking a fireplace makeover project should always be safety.
Design
You should establish your design preferences. To do that we suggest, you check different designs on Pinterest or home magazines. Exploring different design ideas will help steer you to the look you want for your fireplace. Whether you prefer a modern, rustic, or traditional style, you will be able to customize your fireplace to match your vision.
Budget
Finally, you should determine how much you are willing to spend on the fireplace renovation project beforehand to help you narrow your options and make an informed decision. That is because renovating a fireplace can range from a relatively low-cost paint job to a more substantial project involving purchasing materials and labor.
Without wasting any more time, let us delve into the various methods of updating a stone fireplace
The most fashionable ways of updating a stone fireplace include the following:
- Paint the Stone fireplace
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to transform your stone fireplace is by simply giving it a fresh coat of paint.
For the best outcome, we advise you to choose a high-quality paint suitable for fireplace use. For instance, a latex or chalk-based paint would be ideal since both offer excellent adhesion and coverage.
On top of paint quality, consider the paint color. That is because the color you pick significantly impacts the overall look of your fireplace. Luckily, with color, you are spoilt for choice.
Techniques to paint a fireplace
Generally, there are different ways to paint a stone fireplace, and each leads to a different outcome. For example, finishing your painting with an over-grouted appearance can add texture and character to your fireplace. While going for the "German Schmear" technique, you will have the original stone color showing through but with a soft overall appearance. You will achieve a modern, high-contrast look by applying multiple coats of dark paint to the brick, hearth, and mantel.
- Install a new mantel.
A game-changing move to update your fireplace's look is changing the mantel. You could opt for a salvaged vintage wood mantle to add a touch of character to your space or, alternatively, a weathered beam shelf mantel to create a rustic vibe.
- Convert your fireplace to a gas one.
If you're looking for a more modern and efficient fireplace, consider converting your wood-burning fireplace to a gas or electric one. For starters, let us focus on switching to a gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces offer several advantages in comparison to wood-burning ones. To name a few of the benefits: they have lower maintenance requirements, they heat up quicker and are easier to use.
- Switch to an electric fireplace insert
As mentioned above, the other option is to switch your wood-burning fireplace to an electric one. An electric fireplace offers similar, if not better, features to a traditional fireplace but with less maintenance work and no risk of inhaling toxins from the fireplace.
However, if you already have an insert installed in your stone fireplace. And the current one is inefficient. Upgrading it to a state-of-the-art one can improve performance exponentially and its visual appeal with realistic flame effects.
- Update the surround
It goes without say that a surround plays a crucial role in defining the look of a fireplace. Hence, replacing a stone surround with a new material, such as ceramic, porcelain, or glass tiles, will undoubtedly give your fireplace an instant facelift. In addition, installing the tiles in a unique pattern will make your fireplace stand out more.
- Update the Hearth
The hearth is the floor area of a fireplace, and it can also be updated to match your fireplace's new look after making any other upgrade. It could be like the icing on the cake, and the good thing about it is that it is a budget-friendly option since it typically requires a relatively small amount of materials.
To make it blend in with the rest of the fireplace, you can use the same materials for the surround to make the hearth. If not, you can opt for materials in the same color.
- Update the accessories
Once you have updated the whole fireplace, consider adding accessories to enhance its overall appearance and functionality. You can hang artwork or a mirror above the fireplace to create a focal point. And on the mantel itself, you can display decorative items or plants to complete the look.
Bonus tips
In addition to the main renovation methods we have mentioned above, here are additional techniques to further enhance your stone fireplace's aesthetics:
- Texture Your Fireplace with a Mortar Wash
- Update Metal Accents with Spray Paint
- Frame Your Fireplace with Shiplap
- Build a Mantel Cover
Conclusion:
Having an out-of-date stone fireplace that no longer appeals to you visually or works as it should defeats the purpose of having a fireplace. Luckily, a simple update of your stone fireplace will breathe new life into your living space.
After going through this guide, it is evident that updating a stone fireplace has vast possibilities. An upgrade could be in the form of a simple paint job, a stylish new mantel, or a complete fireplace makeover. That said, take inspiration from the options we have discussed here and embark on the journey to transform your stone fireplace into a true masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you make a stone fireplace look good?
Simply paint it. You could never go wrong with adding a pop of color to your space. That is one of the easiest, if not the easiest, ways to fix up a fireplace that does not fit in with your style.
What goes with a stone fireplace?
We suggest you opt for a TV above the fireplace to complement your fireplace. Alternatively, a bold piece of art above your fireplace will make your fireplace feel brand new.
Are stone fireplaces still in style?
Undoubtedly, YES! The warmth and coziness of a stone fireplace are suitable for any design. Whether you want a modern, classic, or vintage-inspired style, you could have a stone fireplace as the focal point.
What is the most popular stone for a fireplace?
Due to its durability and color options, Granite is always the first pick stone to build a stone fireplace surround.
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