Whether you change your mind or the trends shift or you just need an update, sometimes you find yourself renovating multiple times. For something as easy to update as a fireplace, multiple renovations aren’t a problem.
Such was the case with Martina Gieske of Instagram’s @thelivedinlook. Several years ago, she updated the fireplace with a new white wood mantel and small subway-like tile. But with each passing day, Martina knew it wasn’t on point—yet. Here’s how she got the fireplace of her dreams.
Overcoming the Scale Problem
This fireplace sits on a vast wall with oversized windows so it’s easy for anything else to get lost in the design. The new surround and mantel needed to be substantial and large, able to hold its own against the large features.
Experts at Mantels Direct chimed in to help Martina find a mantel that was the right color, shape, and size to complement the scope of the space. The Melrose Classic Series stone fireplace in Limestone was the perfect match.
Covering Up the Footprint of the Old Fireplace
Removing the old fireplace hearth and surround was an interesting endeavor since the new one wasn’t the same dimensions. They stripped it down to the drywall removing the tile and frame for previous mantel. They also needed a solution for the hearth where the previous hearth left a gap in the floor.
Experts at Mantels Direct suggested a smaller hearth and adding in a few more floor planks to help Martina regain some floor real estate. They also suggested a matching Limestone color surround to match the mantel so the finished look wouldn’t feel so segmented, which made it feel small in a large room.
Making It Easy—DIY Easy
“If I’d have known installation was easier than our previous tiled fireplace, I’d have done this years ago,” said Martina. A stone mantel is much easier to install than it seems. It is also very affordable. The reason for this is that it is made of composite stone, a blend of stone and binders. It is made to be hollow, which decreases the weight of the mantel significantly.
It is easy to install yourself yet has the look of a solid stone fireplace and the ambiance of a timeless piece that looks great in any era or design.
Interested in a fireplace remodel of your own? Here are some ideas to get you started.
