OMy fireplace makeover is finished—aside from a final coat of paint—and I couldn’t be more thrilled. I find myself stopping to look at it several times a day. What started as an awkward, oversized opening that I hid with shutters and mirrors is now a cohesive, welcoming focal point.
Before the renovation, the glossy black tile with gold flecks read as cold and wrong for the cozy, cottage aesthetic I wanted. It drew attention away from the mantel and felt more like a bachelor pad than a warm family space.
To create a more suitable backdrop, we used an inspiration photo and built a simple frame filled with horizontal tongue-and-groove planks installed on the reverse side for a subtle beadboard look. Right now the planks are primed, but once they’re painted they’ll lend even more charm and texture.
The modest molding and trim tie the fireplace into the room, enhancing the mantel we already loved and giving the space a comfortable cottage vibe.
We replaced the front of the fireplace with split-face stacked stone in gray and white, which instantly modernized the look while keeping it warm and textural. The new stone gives the mantel the attention it deserves.
The shiny black tile and the discolored carpet around the hearth had to go. We removed both and installed a honed, vein-cut limestone hearth that feels clean and refined.
Framing the new hearth with the recently installed Mohawk hickory flooring completed the transformation. The stone hearth now reads as an intentional design element rather than an afterthought, and the entire kitchen/family room is beginning to come together around it.
Even Jack approves—he’s found a cozy spot by the fire on his new dog bed.
Below is an updated peek at our mantel!
Sources and materials
The vertical backing is tongue-and-groove beadboard planks installed reversed for a subtle horizontal effect. The stacked split-face stone on the fireplace is DalTile #L757 Arctic Gray 2 x 6″. The hearth is honed vein-cut limestone, DalTile #L191 Chenille White. The area rug is an indoor/outdoor rug, and the wood floors are Mohawk hickory. Decorative items include a mirror, baskets, pillows, and accessories collected over time.
For more decorating ideas, check out The Inspired Room for tips and room-by-room inspiration to help you create a home that feels personal and welcoming.
Your home should be a sanctuary. With a few thoughtful updates—texture, color, and meaningful pieces—you can shape a space that reflects the life and people you love.