Hi everyone! Thank you so much for your thoughtful comments, emails, and Instagram messages about my recent fireplace post. I appreciated each suggestion and the time you took to share your ideas.
Today I’m sharing five fireplace makeover ideas and sources of inspiration to help you refresh a fireplace without a full remodel.
How can you work with the fireplace you already have while giving it a fresh look?
I loved hearing that many of you are happy with your fireplaces as they are—whether because they feel original, cozy, or cottage-like. Others noted that simply painting a fireplace can be a small, achievable update that makes a big difference. That’s encouraging, because sometimes a simple paint project is all you need to feel renewed about a space.
Of course, changing accessories or art can also dramatically change the look. It’s always inspiring to discover new ways to love the fireplace you have—ideas that are practical and approachable.
As for my own fireplace, I’m still undecided. I might leave it as is or make a change soon; I’m weighing options and exploring possibilities.
Many of you offered great ideas—some matching what I already have saved in my inspiration files. It’s fun to realize others are thinking along the same lines. Below are several approaches to consider; they may not all suit my fireplace specifically, but they’re useful starting points for brainstorming. I hope they spark something for your home as well.
1. Keep the original stone and add a wood mantel
One popular suggestion was to retain the existing stone and add a rustic or wood mantel. The fireplace featured on Farmhouse Living extends to the ceiling, but the stone and overall feel are similar to what many of us have. Adding a wooden mantel can introduce warmth and a focal point without removing the stone.
2. Cover part of the brick with trim and install a mantel
This makeover from Chris Loves Julia kept the original brick and hearth but updated the look by adding trim work and a new mantel, with paint to even out the brick tone. It’s a smart middle ground—keeping what’s there but giving it a refreshed, cohesive appearance.
If your fireplace has stacked stone or irregular texture, adding trim or a partial cover can modernize the look without full demolition.
3. Reframe and rebuild over the existing stone
A reader suggested building a new frame over the existing stone to create a completely new façade without tearing out the original material. This approach can allow the fireplace to be carried to the ceiling or reshaped to better match your room’s proportions. I once made a simple Photoshop mockup to test this concept, and the reader’s example reaffirmed the idea.
Instead of built-ins to the ceiling, another option is to add floating wood shelves and reface nearby bookcases so the materials feel cohesive across the wall. This can tie the fireplace into the surrounding design and make the update feel intentional.
A similar look with built-ins helps integrate storage and display into the updated fireplace wall for a unified, built-in appearance.
4. Reface with concrete and wood
A modern option is to float concrete over the existing fireplace and extend a different texture up to the ceiling. This creates a clean, transitional look that contrasts with wood accents and can feel both contemporary and warm. Smooth white plaster is another finish to consider if you prefer a softer, muted look.
“Smearing cement over old brick is a great way to makeover an old and dated fireplace without spending a lot of money! You can easily do this in your home, simply have a tile installer come out to float the brick with cement.” —Boxwood Avenue
5. Add a thicker white mantel
For a simple yet effective update, install a deeper, white mantel atop the existing fireplace. A substantial mantel can help the fireplace recede into a monochromatic scheme or become a tailored frame for artwork and seasonal displays. If your current mantel is shallow, replacing it with a thicker version can change the room’s balance with minimal work.
That said, subtle choices often work best when the goal is a calm, timeless look rather than a dramatic focal point.
I know asking for opinions online about something as personal as your home can feel risky, but your thoughtful feedback has been so encouraging. Thank you for helping me think through these possibilities!
PS — In a previous home we transformed a shiny black-tiled fireplace into a cottage-style focal point with split-face gray and white stacked stone. Small changes can have big impact; I’ll keep you posted on what I decide to do next.
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