This post is in partnership with Napoleon Fireplaces
AAs someone who loves decorating, I enjoy discovering the potential in a home. I’m always imagining new projects and ways to improve our space — it’s part of who I am.
At the heart of what I want for our home isn’t more stuff or perfect décor; it’s a feeling. I want a home that feels warm, comfortable and inviting.
Earlier this summer I wrote about possible updates for our living room and considered a few ideas for transforming our fireplace. I asked readers for input because I was torn between seeing design potential and feeling content with the simple, comfortable life we already have.
The responses were encouraging. Many readers suggested changes we could make if inspired, but most agreed that little really needed to change — a fresh coat of paint had already done a lot to improve the fireplace.
One suggestion, though, stood out and resonated deeply. It addressed what the space lacked and what would genuinely enhance the mood.
How about a gas fireplace insert?
This is the fireplace when we first moved in, before the paint makeover. It hasn’t been usable for wood-burning since the previous owners installed a gas line intending an insert.
We had a gas insert in our previous home and it became one of our favorite features. It drew us into the room every day and made fall and winter — even rainy spring days — feel cozy and inviting.
I’ve missed having a working fireplace here, and the idea of restoring that warmth touches on the true desire for this space: comfort, togetherness and that cozy feeling.
As Courtney created a mood board to refine our vision, I kept returning to the importance of mood. I wanted our living room to feel like a cozy cottage by the sea — a phrase that captures not only the view from our windows but also an emotional connection to favorite memories and places.
On a blustery autumn or winter day, nothing delights me more than curling up by a warm fire with family, surrounded by simple comforts that feel peaceful and soothing. Décor trends may change, but how a home feels is what matters most.
Our mood board focuses on what we already love in the room instead of what we lack. The single element missing was the warmth of a real fire — and the people gathered around it.
That realization confirmed our next project.
A new gas fireplace insert completes our mood board and will make this room the coziest it’s ever been.
We’re so excited to move forward. I look forward to sharing more about the beautiful insert we’ll have installed. We’re pleased to partner with Napoleon Fireplaces on this project.
Thank you for following along as our living room evolves into a cozy gathering spot.
*UPDATE* Ready to see the fireplace reveal? We love how this project turned out — see the after to view the finished space.