How To Recreate Joanna Gaines' Stunning But Understated Fixer Upper Fireplace

The fireplace, traditionally a symbol of warmth, light, and protection, remains a central feature in many homes. However, not all fireplaces are functional, either due to disrepair or a lack of need for a traditional fire. Rather than viewing an unused fireplace as wasted space or an architectural anomaly, it can be transformed into an aesthetic focal point through various design approaches and DIY projects. These methods offer opportunities to enhance a room's design, add functionality, and maintain the fireplace's symbolic significance without the need for a burning fire. One popular and visually engaging method is to create a book nook. This involves lining the base of the firebox with magazines to manage any existing soot stains and then stacking books of various sizes within the cavity. This approach, popularized by designer Josh Young, not only creates a unique visual display but also offers functional storage and easy access to reading materials, effectively turning the firebox into a mini-library. The diverse spine colors and textures of books can add significant character to the space. Another creative solution is the faux log stack. While traditional log stacks are common, they can introduce concerns about pests. Morgan Spenla developed a faux stacked facade using thin plywood painted with chalkboard paint and adorned with varying sizes of wooden rounds. These rounds are secured to the board, creating the appearance of a full log stack while allowing the facade to be easily removable for storage or to reveal additional decorative elements behind it. This method provides the rustic aesthetic of logs without the practical drawbacks. Re-tiling the firebox offers a direct and impactful way to refresh the fireplace's appearance. Rachel Lovell's experience demonstrates how a DIY re-tiling project, even for a beginner, can modernize and personalize the fireplace. Learning tiling techniques from online resources and planning the layout with paper mock-ups can lead to a professional-looking finish that perfectly suits the room's updated style. To introduce drama and ambiance, non-working fireplaces can be styled with pillar candles, often placed on custom risers to create varying heights and visual interest. Kymberly Glazer's approach highlights how tailored candle arrangements can transform a static firebox into a dynamic display of light and shadow. Similarly, string lights, or fairy lights, can mimic the glow of a real fire. Hattie Kolp's technique of wrapping string lights around existing faux logs and extending them upwards creates the illusion of flickering flames, emphasizing the fireplace's original features and contributing to a cozy atmosphere. For functional needs, a non-working fireplace can be converted into a shelving unit. Kelly-Jeanne Lee's installation of a custom-sized bookcase in her child's bedroom fireplace exemplifies how this space can be repurposed for storage and display, integrating seamlessly with the room's utility and design. This approach maximizes space and adds practical value. Finally, incorporating mirrors can significantly enhance the fireplace area. Custom-cut mirrors or stick-on mirror tiles can be used to line the firebox, reflecting light and creating a sense of depth. This technique, advocated by Josh Young, not only brightens the space but also reflects other elements of an open-concept room, making the fireplace niche appear more expansive and intriguing. Mirrors can be complemented with natural elements like wood, stone slabs, or large vases for added visual appeal. These diverse strategies demonstrate that an unused fireplace is a versatile canvas for design innovation, allowing homeowners to personalize their living spaces and transform dormant architectural features into captivating elements of home decor. #FireplaceRedesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeProjects #SpaceUtilization #ArchitecturalFeatures #CreativeHomemaking #FireplaceStyling

In San Francisco, a fireplace is often more about creating a cozy atmosphere and serving as a focal point than providing essential heat. This perspective allowed designer Katie Monkhouse to propose a cost-effective alternative for her clients who admired Victorian and French apartment aesthetics featuring beautiful stone mantels. The original architectural plans for their ground-level condo included a fireplace, but it was never built. Running gas lines to install a functional fireplace would have cost at least $5,000, a significant expense for an amenity that was primarily desired for its aesthetic appeal. The clients' main desire was the feeling of warmth and a central feature around which the living room could be arranged, rather than an actual fire. The newly constructed space already boasted herringbone floors, and the blank wall presented an ideal opportunity to introduce a new focal point. A key requirement, based on the clients' inspiration images, was that the mantel had to be made of real marble, not a faux plaster or wooden substitute. Monkhouse sourced a prefabricated fireplace surround made of Arabascato marble from Fine’s Gallery in Florida, which offered a range of styles from ornate to modern. Following the order, local design consultant and handyman Jasper Montgomery was tasked with constructing the bump-out for the fireplace and the arched built-ins that would flank it. A challenge arose when the 750-pound marble mantel arrived in 60 separate pieces, an unexpected complication as Monkhouse had assumed it would be pre-assembled. This required hiring a stonemason, who managed to assemble it on-site within a single day. This additional cost was covered by the 10 to 20 percent extra budget Monkhouse advises her clients to set aside for unforeseen expenses. To ensure the faux fireplace appeared legitimate and not simply "slapped onto the white wall," Monkhouse implemented a crucial design detail: the interior of the pretend firebox was painted entirely in Benjamin Moore’s Black Beauty. This dark color created an illusion of depth, making the faux fireplace look authentic and integrated seamlessly into the design. This finishing touch successfully elevated the overall aesthetic, achieving the desired cozy and grand look without the significant expense of a functional fireplace installation, ultimately saving the clients approximately $5,000. #FauxFireplace #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CostSaving #LivingRoom #DesignHack #MarbleMantel #Renovation #DIY

A fireplace can transform an ordinary room into a beautiful and inviting space, serving as a significant focal point that elevates the room's ambiance. While the mantel is often the primary focus for decoration, the hearth also offers substantial design potential. This article provides various creative ways to decorate a fireplace hearth, whether it's functional or non-functional, to enhance the overall aesthetic of a home. For those who appreciate the warmth of a fire but prefer a minimal approach, or for hearths that are no longer operational, candles offer an excellent solution. Pillar candles or tealights can fill the space, providing a warm glow and creating a cozy atmosphere. The number of candles can be adjusted to achieve different effects, from a single minimalist candle to a dense arrangement for abundance and luxury. Allowing the wax to drip can add a unique textural element, enhancing a gothic aesthetic. Alternatively, a non-functional hearth can be repurposed as a stylish bookcase. Stacking books both vertically and horizontally, with spines facing inwards, can create visual interest and brighten a darker fireplace. This method offers a practical storage solution while maintaining a consistent and aesthetically pleasing look. Tiling the hearth is another versatile option, suitable for various interior design styles, from rustic to minimalist. Trendy designs like herringbone can instantly refresh an outdated fireplace, while charcoal or black tiles can add drama and contrast with a glowing fire. Patterned tiles can introduce a pop of color and life, complementing either an active fire or ornamental decorations in a non-functioning space. Plants can also bring a sense of life and abundance to a hearth, especially if the fireplace is not in use. Ferns provide a simple touch of green for minimal designs, while vibrant houseplants like muehlenbeckias add excitement and dynamic texture. Considerations for plant placement include light availability, with LED grow lights recommended for particularly deep or dark fireplaces. The key is to start with a few plants and allow the design to evolve naturally. For a rustic or farmhouse feel, using the hearth as a log store is an effective way to nod to the fire's traditional function. Adding a touch of paint to the log ends can make them stand out. However, practical considerations such as seasoning the wood to prevent pests and mold, and ensuring adequate airflow, are important. If wood logs are not preferred, creative alternatives like selenite logs or crystal and metal obelisks can offer a fresh, modern, and luxurious look, adding a unique silhouette to the hearth. To enhance safety and style, a fireplace screen can be an excellent addition, particularly for homes with children or pets. Modern screens come in diverse designs, from art deco glass and brass to sleek stainless steel, and can even be DIY projects made from repurposed materials. A fresh coat of heat-resistant paint can also revitalize a hearth, providing a cost-effective way to add color and contrast. Darker tones can create an exciting contrast with the fire, while brighter hues can inject vibrancy into the room. Proper preparation, including cleaning and priming, is crucial for brick hearths to ensure an even and lasting finish. For those looking to significantly upgrade their fireplace, installing a stove combines visual appeal with functionality. Stoves, available in various styles, can be integrated into the hearth to create a striking feature. Proper ventilation and adherence to safety regulations are paramount for stove installation, often requiring professional assistance. Finally, a non-working hearth can be transformed into a unique storage area, such as a wine rack or a display for aesthetically grouped items like vintage paperbacks and souvenirs. However, it's important to check for proper ventilation to prevent mold and mildew in unused fireplaces. Incorporating flowers, either fresh or artificial, can introduce color and a continually changing aesthetic, with different arrangements suitable for various seasons. The use of string lights is another innovative way to mimic the glow of a fire, providing a warm and festive ambiance. Warm-toned lights arranged like flames or wrapped around logs can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Lastly, whitewashing a non-functioning hearth and mantel can brighten a room, creating a playful interplay of light and shadow and maintaining the visual depth of the fireplace. #FireplaceDecor #HearthDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement #DecoratingIdeas #FireplaceRemodel #HomeStyling #DIYDecor #DesignHacks

Brenda Stearns, a DIY enthusiast and active Instagram user (@she_plusfive), undertook a significant renovation project in her 1850s Indiana home. Her focus was a non-functioning dining room fireplace, which, due to outdated code regulations, could not be restored to a working condition without substantial financial investment. Instead of making it functional, Stearns opted to transform it into a decorative focal point, aligning with her ongoing room-by-room renovation of the historic property. The inspiration for the fireplace's new look came from Victorian-era design, specifically intricate tile artwork seen on Pinterest. Stearns discovered Mozaico, a company specializing in mosaic designs, and chose a unique and abstract pattern called "Garden Gate." This design featured flowers and curved leaves, appealing to her desire for a feminine aesthetic without straight lines. Initially, Stearns considered customizing the mosaic's colors to include blues and reds. However, after installing new wallpaper and painting the trim ivory in the dining room, she realized the customized colors would clash with the updated room scheme. She then decided to revert to the mosaic's original, more neutral color palette, which provided an earthy tone that harmonized with the room's overall design. The tiling process, even with Mozaico's pre-cut tile sheets, required considerable patience and several days for drying between steps. Stearns detailed the multi-stage process, beginning with the removal of the old mantel, which was not original to the house and obstructed a steam pipe. Following this, she repaired damaged plaster and realigned the bricks at the fireplace's base, applying a coat of joint compound. After two to three days of drying, she primed the entire area with Kilz primer. The mosaic application involved spreading mortar and carefully placing the tile pieces, starting with the inside, then the floor, and finally the surround over consecutive days. Each section required sufficient drying time before the final and most challenging step: grouting the entire mosaic. For the new mantel, Stearns demonstrated resourcefulness by repurposing wood and trim pieces left by previous owners in the attic. She cut these intricate pieces to fit the mantel, then primed and painted them with Benjamin Moore Ancient Ivory, matching the room's existing trim. Additionally, she found and repurposed an antique brass fireplace fender with lion's feet, left by previous owners in another room, which further enhanced the Victorian aesthetic of the revamped fireplace. To create a romantic ambiance for the non-functioning fireplace, Stearns incorporated flameless LED taper candles purchased from Amazon. She plans to eventually replace these with unique antique candles to add more character. These candles are lit during dinner, providing a warm and inviting glow that serves as a charming and romantic centerpiece for the dining room. #DIYRenovation #FireplaceMakeover #MosaicTile #HomeImprovement #VictorianDesign #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #DiningRoomDecor #RepurposedMaterials

This blog post serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals considering a fireplace, offering essential information for selecting the appropriate type, ensuring proper installation, and performing necessary repairs. The collection of articles covers a wide range of topics related to fireplaces, starting with maintenance advice such as preventing rust in fire pits through regular care and selecting the best firewood racks for organized storage. It explores creative ways to repurpose old fireplaces, offering ideas suitable for various budgets, and suggests practical uses for fireplace ash, preventing its disposal. The guide also provides methods to increase the heat efficiency of wood-burning fireplaces and informs readers on where to source firewood. Several articles focus on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of fireplaces, including innovative design mantel ideas and diverse fireplace tile designs from popular social media platforms. It reviews the Duraflame electric fireplace, highlighting its warmth and ambiance, and evaluates a firewood subscription service for fire pits and pizza ovens. The post delves into decorative aspects, presenting various mantel decor ideas from Instagram and TikTok, as well as different paint color ideas for an affordable fireplace update. For outdoor enthusiasts, it offers recommendations for the best outdoor fireplace kits and a detailed guide to fire pit burners, along with a selection of top-rated propane fire pits for comfortable outdoor evenings. The safety and practical aspects of fireplaces are thoroughly addressed. There are articles on building a custom wood fireplace mantel, utilizing candles in fireplaces for a cozy atmosphere, and providing DIY firewood storage solutions. The guide offers tips for choosing fireplace andirons and grates, clarifies the legality of wood-burning fireplaces, and outlines indoor gas fireplace safety protocols for beginners. It also instructs on how to safely extinguish a fire in a wood-burning fireplace, how to light a gas fireplace, and essential indoor wood-burning fireplace safety tips. Practical advice extends to babyproofing a fireplace, cleaning brick fireplaces, and understanding the importance of chimney caps. Finally, the post clarifies firewood measurements and helps readers determine the necessary amount of firewood for winter, ensuring a well-prepared and safe fireplace experience. #FireplaceMaintenance #FireplaceDesign #FirewoodStorage #FireplaceSafety #DIYProjects #HomeHeating #OutdoorFireplaces #HomeDecor #HeatingAndCooling

Joanna Gaines, co-founder of Magnolia Network, recently completed a significant home renovation, transforming her youngest son Crew’s former bedroom into a sophisticated butler’s pantry. This project, documented on her TV series 'Mini Reni,' reflects Gaines’s philosophy that a home should evolve with its occupants. The renovated space seamlessly blends Gaines’s signature farmhouse aesthetic with elegant, Parisian-inspired design elements, creating a functional yet stylish area. The central feature of the pantry is an antique worktable with a dolomite top, intended for meal preparation and entertaining. Adjacent to this, a storage hutch with a rolling ladder, reminiscent of a Parisian store, provides ample, visible storage for pantry items. A brass rod above the sink serves a dual purpose, allowing for the drying of flowers and herbs, adding both decorative and practical touches. The renovation also includes an appliance wall, designed to maximize the utility of the space. The flooring is a key design element, featuring tiles laid in a 'daisy-esque pattern' that complements the scalloped motifs used elsewhere in the room. Underneath these tiles, the original pine wood flooring has been preserved and protected with plywood, offering flexibility for future design changes. The room’s existing 1800s fireplace was not removed but rather integrated into the new design. Gaines made it functional by installing a wood-burning stove insert and repurposed the mantle and surrounding area for storage, specifically for her homemade jarred honey and other items produced by her bees, showcased on open shelving. Near the windows, Gaines created a designated 'micro-space' for morning coffee, furnished with a small antique table and chairs. This area provides a tranquil spot to enjoy the pastoral views. Decorative elements within the pantry hold personal significance for Gaines. These include a framed recipe for Syrian donuts, inherited from her grandfather, who was a source of culinary inspiration, and a salvaged piece of yellow rose wallpaper from the room’s previous owners, which she also framed. The overall design demonstrates Gaines's ability to maximize every available inch of a small space, creating a highly organized and aesthetically pleasing butler's pantry that supports her passion for cooking, baking, and hosting. #JoannaGaines #HomeRenovation #PantryDesign #FarmhouseStyle #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #StorageSolutions #MagnoliaNetwork #ButlerPantry

As the holiday season concludes, the article suggests that fireplaces should remain a central feature for maintaining a cozy atmosphere throughout winter. Fireplaces provide a unique ambiance and glow that other home decor items cannot easily replicate, making them desirable even in warmer climates. For those looking to refresh their fireplace, a curated list of 24 designer-approved ideas is presented, covering various aspects from mantel decor to material choices. The first idea, 'Take Inspo from Your Surroundings,' highlights a Florida home where the fireplace is covered in crushed seashells, integrating it with the beach house environment. 'Limewash It' details how Melissa Anderson of OAD Interiors limewashed an original stone fireplace to lighten the room while preserving its historic feel. For a dramatic focal point, 'Suspend It in Air' showcases a midcentury-style suspended fireplace in a bedroom, contributing to a glamping aesthetic. 'Frame It in Tiles' suggests using tiles to frame the fireplace, drawing inspiration from existing decor like Heath Ceramics bowl collections, as demonstrated by Kevin Swayers. 'Make It Asymmetrical' features a Calacatta Verde-clad marble fireplace with asymmetrical fluting and a firewood holder, transforming it into an art piece. 'Use What You Have Around' illustrates resourcefulness, with Krysta Gibbons of Kipling House using leftover trim to finish a fireplace, ensuring cohesion with the home's existing design. 'Salvage Something Iconic' encourages incorporating salvaged items, such as a Waldorf-Astoria hotel mantel, to add history and unique character to a space. 'Ditch the Firewood' presents an alternative for warmth using fireballs instead of wood, as seen in a bar lounge designed by Marie Flanigan. 'Make It Ornate' shows how an ornate black mantel can add luxury and fun to a library, tying into other black accents in the room. 'Cover It in Concrete' describes a concrete fireplace with a board-form technique to create a subtle wood-grain effect, designed by Liz Carroll to avoid a stark appearance. 'Keep It Minimalist' highlights a simple metal fireplace surround with a subtle design, favored by minimalist aesthetics, and styled with sculptural art. 'Feign Functionality' offers an idea for non-working fireplaces by stacking logs, providing a rustic cabin charm, as implemented by Brad Ramsey. 'Display Antiques' suggests using empty fireplaces to house decorative items like paper fans or other antiques, nodding to the structure's past. 'Retile It' demonstrates combining old and new by retiling an empty fireplace with graphic tiles that complement geometric cabinets, adding a modern touch to a Victorian mantel. 'Paint It Black' is a solution for brick fireplaces that don't match modern decor, creating depth and discreetly integrating the bricks. 'Go Monochrome' shows Leanne Ford's approach of painting an entire non-functional fireplace white, including decorative firewood, and warming the room with pampas grass. 'Use a Statement Screen' advises using decorative screens to conceal empty fireplaces while enhancing the surrounding area. 'Display Artwork' transforms an empty fireplace into a gallery space for pottery and artwork. 'Arrange Flowers' offers a simple yet effective way to liven up a fireplace niche with floral arrangements. Finally, 'Fill It With Vintage Books' suggests stacking vintage books in an empty fireplace to complement rustic or aged decor, as exemplified by Jersey Ice Cream Co. #FireplaceDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CozyHome #DesignInspiration #RenovationIdeas #SeasonalDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures

Fireplaces serve as central elements in home design, offering both functional warmth and significant aesthetic appeal. This comprehensive guide, drawing from the ELLE DECOR archive, presents 77 stylish fireplace ideas to inspire designers and homeowners in 2026. The article highlights how a fireplace can transform a living room, bedroom, or patio, creating an elegant vignette that reflects personal style and enhances ambiance. Designing a timeless fireplace often involves thoughtful material selection and a focus on classic elements. Rayman Boozer, an ELLE DECOR A-List designer, suggests limiting the number of materials to let them tell a story. He notes a contemporary preference for flatter profiles over traditional mantels, emphasizing the hearth and surround to keep the fire as the primary focus. For instance, a Harlem duplex showcased a bold Calacatta Viola surround paired with sky-blue trim matching the room's walls, demonstrating a modern approach that avoids conventional stone and brick clichés. Budget-conscious individuals can explore various DIY solutions to refresh their mantels. Toronto-based interior designer Colette van den Thillart recommends using gesso to achieve a plaster-like finish, which can be purchased from any art store. Painting an old mantel the same color as the walls is another cost-effective way to update its look, as affirmed by Boozer. For gas or electric hearths, or even empty ones, van den Thillart suggests placing a basket of logs nearby to create a cozy and inviting effect. The article showcases diverse fireplace designs. The "Copper-Hued Fireplace" in a Montana winter home features a unique folded chimney breast clad in copper plaster, offering a rustic yet sophisticated touch. The "Art Deco-Inspired Marble Fireplace" in a Milan apartment utilizes Giallo Siena marble with geometric lines, drawing inspiration from the Art Deco movement. A "Sculptural Plaster Fireplace" in Pierre Yovanovitch's New York showroom features a curvaceous silhouette, blending retro and modern aesthetics. The "Blue-Bordered Fireplace" by Rayman Boozer employs creative paint color, with walls in Benjamin Moore's Harbor Haze and a slightly darker hue for the trim, unifying the fireplace with surrounding artwork. Other notable examples include a "Spanish Revival Fireplace" in a 1928 Los Feliz home, where the original fireplace was painted white and layered with textures and artwork, including a sculpture above the mantel. A "Muted Blue Fireplace" in a Montecito, California, estate showcases a monochrome strategy, painting the entire living area, including the fireplace, in a dusty shade of blue using Portolo Paints’ Sirene. The "Mirrored Tile Fireplace" in a Paris apartment features gradated glass panels backed in copper, brass, and silver leaf, creating an illusion of a fire-burned mirror. An "Historic Hearth Fireplace" in an upstate New York house was updated with a happy shade of blue paint, transforming it into a venue for displaying ceramics. A "Room-Spanning Fireplace" in a West Vancouver home literally spreads warmth with its extended marble surround. Additional designs include a "Beaded Fireplace" in an Atlanta home, incorporating a millegrain look on the plaster surround, and a "Midcentury Cone Fireplace" in Carol Egan's dream house, a freestanding unit that allows for a bold gallery wall behind it. The "Raspberry Marble Fireplace" in an Alton Bechara apartment features bold Breccia Arrabida marble and a raspberry paint job, leaning into maximalist design. A "Beaux-Arts Fireplace" in a New York pied-à-terre maintains its original grandeur with a vintage bust and antique candlesticks. A "Lime Fireplace" in a Belgian manor injects color and whimsy with its vibrant green hue. A "Midcentury Brick Fireplace" in a Garrett Hunter-designed home celebrates period features with refined decor. A "Steel-Clad Fireplace" by Andre Herrero conceals a TV and pays homage to iconic design, while a "Wainscot-Backed Fireplace" in a Bodrum, Turkey, villa adds warmth with earthy plaster and travertine floors. The "Blue Marble Fireplace" in a San Francisco mansion, designed by Nicole Hollis, features a dazzling blue-veined marble slab against dark walls, topped with a tondo artwork. Finally, a "Pooch-Perfect Fireplace" demonstrates the impact of strategic accessories like plants, framed artworks, and a mirror, and a "Banquette-Surrounded Fireplace" offers cozy seating nooks for reading. #FireplaceDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #RoomIdeas #HomeRenovation #ModernFireplaces #LuxuryInteriors #DesignerTips #DIYHomeDecor

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, a place for daily activities, celebrations, and intimate gatherings. To enhance its welcoming and cozy atmosphere, a fireplace can be a significant addition, bringing an "old-world charm" that encourages family and guests to gather. While historically utilitarian for cooking and warmth, fireplaces in modern kitchens now serve primarily to boost comfort and ambiance. They can seamlessly integrate into both historic homes and newer constructions, making the space more inviting and extending the time people spend there. The article explores 15 diverse kitchen fireplace ideas from design professionals, offering inspiration for incorporating this feature. One suggestion is to include subtle seating near the fireplace, allowing for relaxation while keeping an eye on kitchen activities. For nonfunctional fireplaces, an alternative is to fill them with decorative items like firewood, plants, or books, adding visual interest and texture. To ensure the fireplace stands out amidst other kitchen elements like cabinetry, appliances, and backsplashes, a bold mantel or firebox surround is recommended. When a fireplace is not original to the home, selecting a complementary style is crucial. Researching the home's architecture and age helps in choosing a design that fits naturally, whether it's a brick beehive oven or a Colonial-inspired cast-iron wood stove. Designers can further integrate the fireplace by echoing its architectural elements, such as curved arches, in other parts of the kitchen, like crown molding or cabinet doors, creating a symmetrical and cohesive look. Color coordination is also vital, especially since many fireplaces use natural materials in neutral tones. The surrounding kitchen decor should harmonize with these colors, such as pairing a stone-clad fireplace with gray marble and metal accents. For kitchens with expansive views, a minimalistic, floating fireplace can avoid visual clutter, allowing the focus to remain on the exterior or open layout. Breaking away from traditional designs is encouraged, offering opportunities for bold tile surrounds or vibrant colors. Strategically placing the dining area near the hearth can transform everyday meals into a more special experience, akin to dining in a cozy restaurant. Practical considerations include ensuring adequate space around the fireplace, especially in smaller kitchens, by choosing slim mantel projections to maintain clear walkways. For those undertaking a full kitchen renovation, a double-sided fireplace can connect the kitchen to an adjacent living room, offering warmth and ambiance to both spaces. Alternatively, a fireplace can be positioned to the side of the main kitchen activity zones to prevent congestion while still providing a cozy atmosphere. Raising the fireplace to counter height can make its flames more prominent, offering a relaxing focal point to those standing or working in the kitchen. Finally, a kitchen fireplace can be designed next to the stove, creating a natural synergy and a historical aesthetic, or even be creatively repurposed to house a cooktop, forming a stylish stove alcove. #KitchenDesign #FireplaceIdeas #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CozyHome #RenovationTips #HolidayGathering

This article offers an exclusive tour of Chip and Joanna Gaines' personal farmhouse in Waco, Texas, highlighting their signature modern farmhouse style that blends rustic and contemporary elements. Joanna Gaines emphasizes the intentionality behind their home's design, aiming to create a space that feels both homey and chic. The tour begins with their front porch, which showcases the importance of curb appeal through thoughtful details like potted plants, sconces, and a warm wood double door. The creamy white exterior of their home ensures these elements remain the focal point. The entryway, though compact, is designed to be humble and inviting, featuring a wooden bench, a raw wood entryway table, and various plants, including pampas grass. A blacksmith-style hook rack adds a rustic touch. Joanna describes the entryway as a "big hug," reinforcing the warm welcome it provides. The living room reflects a thoughtful approach to furniture choices and layout, with Joanna prioritizing sentimentality over extensive space. She displays meaningful items like a street sign from her honeymoon and a large, rustic-style clock, demonstrating alternative wall decor. Despite a predominantly neutral interior, Joanna introduces a vibrant antique green piano as a statement piece in the living space. This intentional pop of color, specifically Magnolia Green, adds a playful vibe without disrupting the overall calm aesthetic. This approach suggests that a single, well-chosen colorful item can significantly enhance a neutral room. The laundry room, surprisingly, is one of Joanna's favorite spaces. It features brick floors, quirky signage, and a stunning patterned tile floor, transforming a utilitarian area into a retreat. Joanna views this room as her personal space for reading and writing, emphasizing the idea of making even chore-oriented rooms enjoyable. The nursery is designed with a soft, neutral palette, blending antiques with modern elements. It prioritizes personalization through a "book wall" filled with books from family and friends, focusing on surrounding the child with love rather than adhering strictly to a theme. A mid-century-style rocking chair and a black crib add timeless and modern touches, respectively. The kitchen exemplifies their classic modern farmhouse style with white subway tiles, recessed cabinetry, and a black and white color scheme. Concrete countertops add a contemporary touch, though their maintenance requirements are noted. Joanna's antique island is a cherished piece. The article also touches on the importance of backsplashes in defining a kitchen's character. Concluding the tour, Joanna discusses her design philosophy, which revolves around creating spaces that foster well-being and authenticity rather than striving for unattainable perfection. She shares lessons learned from early career mistakes, emphasizing that a home should be a place where one thrives, filled with meaningful and personalized decor rather than overly curated, trendy items. This philosophy encourages homeowners to embrace individuality in their decor choices. #JoannaGaines #ChipGaines #FixerUpper #ModernFarmhouse #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #WacoTexas #DesignPhilosophy

The perception that fireplaces are exclusively relegated to living rooms is challenged by Jennifer Aniston's ultra-modern kitchen, which seamlessly integrates a fireplace, thereby transforming the space into a cozy and inviting hub. Traditionally, fireplaces have been a staple in living areas, synonymous with warmth and comfort, especially during colder months. However, Aniston's kitchen demonstrates a fresh approach to interior design, showcasing how this classic feature can enhance less conventional rooms. Jennifer Aniston's kitchen is characterized by its clean lines, organic textures, and contemporary shapes. It masterfully balances cool, modern aesthetics with classic elements, making every component of the room shine. The fireplace, rather than being an incongruous addition, acts as a unifying element, tying the diverse design features together and injecting a crucial sense of coziness. This integration elevates the kitchen from a purely functional area to a complete and inviting space, aligning with the growing trend of 'living kitchens' that prioritize comfort and social interaction. Interior designers are increasingly advocating for the inclusion of fireplaces in kitchens, even in ultra-modern settings. Holly Scott, an interior designer, notes that a fireplace adds warmth and personality, making the kitchen a gathering space rather than just a place for cooking. She emphasizes that it softens hard surfaces, creating a calming and connected atmosphere that truly embodies the heart of the home. The resurgence of living kitchens has made fireplaces a key design feature, helping to balance sleek, modern layouts with texture and warmth, resulting in a more layered and inviting feel. The article also provides practical advice on how to recreate Jennifer Aniston's kitchen aesthetic, offering a selection of stylish alternatives for unique objects that contribute to the room's charm. These include an organic-shaped teak wood bowl, a slick lacquered mini bob mill, a sturdy acacia wood cutting board, a chic paper towel holder, intricate mesh bowls, and a matte black kettle. Each item is chosen to reflect the blend of modern organic style and vintage details present in Aniston's kitchen, which features a sleek stone island, wooden cabinets, bespoke wooden stools, and one-of-a-kind bronze pendants. To achieve a contemporary look with a fireplace in the kitchen, designers recommend focusing on simplicity and materials, using clean lines, soft tones, and natural textures to ensure the space feels fresh and timeless. Colleen Bennett, Founder of CBB Design Firm, suggests that to modernize a kitchen fireplace, it should be incorporated into an open-concept design with a see-through feature. This approach maintains visual openness and allows the fireplace to serve multiple adjacent spaces, making it feel integrated and contemporary. Ultimately, Jennifer Aniston's kitchen exemplifies a perfect balance of organic materials, modernist shapes, and lived-in details. The fireplace plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between old and new design elements, transforming the cooking space into the true heart of the home. #JenniferAniston #KitchenDesign #FireplaceIdeas #ModernOrganicStyle #InteriorDesignTrends #CozyKitchens #CelebrityHomes #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors

This blog post details the comprehensive renovation of a dated fireplace in a 1930s home by DIYer and blogger Evija and her husband, Shaun. The original fireplace, which had not been used since 1991, was in a state of disrepair, featuring chunky tiles and an overall outdated aesthetic. The project aimed to not only modernize the living room's focal point but also to address significant structural issues and safety concerns associated with the old fireplace. The renovation began with extensive demolition, where Evija and Shaun removed the existing tile surround, hearth, and exterior woodwork. Due to the complexities and potential hazards involved, particularly the presence of a fire cylinder and pipes, they enlisted professionals for certain aspects of the work, such as asbestos removal, the safe extraction of the fire cylinder and pipes, and the installation of a lintel to support the old brickwork. They also addressed water and woodworm damage and fixed a leak, ensuring the structural integrity of the area. A stud was built around the brick chimney breast to create a level and straight surface, and insulated plasterboard was installed on the back walls to improve heat retention in the room. Following the structural work, the couple focused on the aesthetic transformation. They designed the new fireplace inset themselves, opting for a herringbone pattern using white clearance tiles from Ca’ Pietra and dark gray grout. A Brazilian slate hearth was chosen to complement the dark grout, creating a cohesive and contemporary look. Evija resourcefuly sourced a mantel for free from Facebook Marketplace, which she refurbished by sanding and painting, making it appear brand new. A wood-burning stove was installed, fulfilling their desire for a functional and cozy heat source, despite initial skepticism about using a log burner over an open fire. The final touches included building and installing five floating shelves on both sides of the fireplace, which now serve as decorative and functional storage for firewood, photos, vases, and plants. The entire area, including walls, shelves, ceiling, and fireplace surround, was painted with Rustoleum paint in the shade 'Steamed Milk,' using matte wall paint for the walls and ceiling and satin furniture paint for the woodwork. A round mirror from TK Maxx was hung above the mantel, accented by minimalist decor. The overall transformation resulted in a modern, organic modern, and glam-styled living room that became a comfortable and frequently used space for the couple, especially during winter evenings. The project also bolstered Evija's confidence in DIY, highlighting her journey from being unable to hang a picture to undertaking a major fireplace demolition and renovation. #FireplaceMakeover #LivingRoomRenovation #HomeImprovement #DIYProject #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #HomeDecor #ModernDesign #WoodBurningStove

The author shares a personal experience of transforming a fireplace using tile stickers for a cost of just £22. This DIY project was initiated shortly after moving into a new home, driven by a desire for a quick and affordable renovation. The lounge was the first room to be updated, and tile stickers were chosen over traditional tiles for their ease of application and cost-effectiveness. The original fireplace hearth was a concrete slab, providing a blank canvas for the project, though the author notes that these stickers could also be applied over existing tiles. The design choice for the fireplace was a traditional yet stylish monochrome star pattern, selected after considering various options like mosaic or chevron designs. The specific tile stickers, found on eBay, were chosen for their mottled appearance, which contributes to a more realistic tiled look. The author measured the area to determine the required quantity, ultimately using two packets of stickers. The application process involved patience and precision, particularly when cutting the stickers to fit and ensuring straight lines. The author used scissors and a Stanley knife for cutting and emphasized the importance of planning the layout before removing the backing. A key tip was to leave the white lines on the stickers visible to mimic grout lines, enhancing the realistic effect. After almost three years, the tile stickers have largely maintained their appearance and adhesion. The author acknowledges minor curling at the corners, attributing it to a one-year-old child crawling over them, and suggests they would remain pristine in a home without small children. The fireplace now accommodates an electric fire, and the author advises caution regarding the flammability of such products if a real open fire is present. The article also suggests alternative peel-and-stick tile options available on Amazon, including herringbone and mosaic styles, and encourages readers to consider similar DIY projects for other areas of their home, such as bathroom floors. #DIYProject #FireplaceMakeover #TileStickers #HomeRenovation #BudgetDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AffordableHome

Joanna Gaines, known for her iconic homeware store Magnolia, annually transforms her store with festive decor that serves as a reminder for many to begin their own Christmas decorating. Her approach emphasizes timeless holiday ideas that are simple yet effective and easily replicable in any home. For 2025, Gaines's recent Christmas mantel styling showcases a heritage-inspired aesthetic, exuding warmth, nostalgia, and aligning with current trends. This year's Magnolia store Christmas mantel exemplifies key holiday themes, focusing on tradition and togetherness. The style blends elegance with a homely, slightly chaotic charm, reminiscent of classic holiday films. The foundation of this mantel decor is a garland. To achieve the desired fullness and organic texture, Gaines layers her Real Touch Cedar Mix Oversized Garland and intersperses Real Touch Foraged Red Berry Pine Bundles. These bundles add splashes of color and additional texture, and their wire stems allow for easy shaping, making them suitable for enhancing even real garlands. Stockings are an integral part of the mantel, and Gaines ensures they hang securely and stylishly without the need for nails by using Marble and Gilded Stocking Holders. These holders feature subtle gold and stone accents that complement the greenery of the garland. To complete the look, Gaines adds height to either end of the mantel with a mix of candles and ornaments, incorporating charming vintage books. This combination creates a vignette rich in character and coziness, reflecting a popular trend for Christmas 2025. Several specific items are highlighted for recreating Gaines's holiday mantel. The Real Touch Cedar Mix Oversized Garland, priced at $187, forms the initial festive base, evoking a wintery feel. The Marble and Gilded Stocking Holders, available for $30 each, offer a decadent touch that reflects light and contrasts with the greenery. The Enchanted Forest Embroidered Velvet Stocking in Syrah, costing $52, adds a whimsical flourish and luxurious red velvet texture, nodding to past Christmases. The Magnolia Silos Winter Advent Calendar, priced at $72, is presented as a charming, vintage-inspired accessory to be placed at the center of the mantel, creating a balanced look when flanked by smaller decorative pieces. Etched Brass Nutcrackers, at $52 each, are positioned in pairs to add a traditional feel and visual impact, transforming the display from one-dimensional. Chestnut Brown Taper candles, costing $9 each, paired with nutcracker candle holders, create cozy corners that gently illuminate the room. A Splendid Squirrel Sit About, priced at $17, is suggested for offsetting greenery and darker hues, placed on a stack of old books for a simple yet effective arrangement. Finally, a Magnolia Twelve Nights Candle, at $32, and the Real Touch Foraged Red Berry Pine Wreath, at $104, are used to complete the display. The candle adds a wintery scent and coziness, while the wreath, placed atop a mirror above the mantel, creates the illusion of a grander statement piece. The overall message from Joanna Gaines's mantel decor is that with the right styling, embracing abundant festive elements can create a magical holiday display without being excessive. #JoannaGaines #ChristmasDecor #HolidayMantel #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #FestiveDecor #MagnoliaHome #SeasonalStyling

The article details the comprehensive fireplace renovation undertaken by DIYer and blogger Evija Roberts in her 1930s home, transforming a dated and unused fireplace into a modern focal point. The original fireplace, which had not been in use since 1991, was crumbling and featured chunky tiles, prompting a major overhaul. Evija and her husband, Shaun, embarked on a project that combined their DIY efforts with professional assistance, particularly for safety-critical aspects. The renovation began with the demolition of the old hearth, tile surround, and exterior woodwork. Due to the age of the fireplace, professionals were called in to safely remove asbestos, the fire cylinder, and pipes, and to install a lintel for structural support. To ensure the new structure was level and straight, a stud was built around the brick chimney breast. Insulation using insulated plasterboard was also added to the back walls to improve heat retention in the room. The design phase involved Evija and Shaun sketching their vision for the new fireplace inset. They opted for a herringbone pattern using white clearance tiles from a designer brand and dark gray grout, which they installed themselves. A Brazilian slate was chosen for the hearth, complementing the dark grout. A significant cost-saving measure was the acquisition of a new mantelpiece for free from Facebook Marketplace, which Evija refurbished with sanding and a fresh coat of paint. The couple then installed a wood-burning stove, a decision Evija initially had reservations about, preferring an open fire, but ultimately found very satisfying. With the fireplace as the central feature, the couple moved on to the finishing touches for the living room. They constructed and installed five floating shelves on either side of the fireplace, creating display areas for decor and a convenient nook for firewood. The entire room, including the walls, shelves, ceiling, and fireplace surround, was painted in Rustoleum's "Steamed Milk," using matte wall paint for the walls and ceiling and satin furniture paint for the woodwork. A round mirror from TK Maxx was placed above the mantel, complemented by minimalist decor like a plant and a candlestick. Evija expressed surprise at her increased DIY capabilities, noting her journey from struggling to hang a picture to confidently demolishing fireplaces. She encourages others to attempt DIY projects, emphasizing the satisfaction and financial benefits. The transformed living room has become a cherished space for the couple, particularly during winter evenings, as they enjoy cozy movie nights by the warmth of the new log burner. #FireplaceMakeover #LivingRoomRenovation #HomeImprovement #DIYProject #InteriorDesign #WoodBurningStove #HomeDecor #BeforeAndAfter #EvijaRoberts