Updating the look of your fireplace wall and mantle doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little bit of creativity and some DIY spirit you can give your fireplace a fresh new look that will make it the focal point of any room.
Step 1: Choose Your Paint Color
The first step in updating your fireplace is to choose a paint colour that will complement your existing decor. You can go for a classic white or cream colour to create a bright and airy feel, or you can add a pop of colour to make a bold statement. Whatever colour you choose, make sure it complements the colours in your room and adds to the overall aesthetic. As I’ve stated before I really want my walls to be light and neutral but I wanted the fireplace wall to be bold. I chose “Little Black Dress” by Behr. I love how moody it is! Originally I thought about upgrading the mantle to a solid wood beam but that isn’t in the budget right now so I decided to paint the mantle the same black and I actually really like how it all looks together.
Step 2: Prep Your Fireplace Wall and Mantle
Before you start painting, you’ll need to prepare your fireplace wall and mantle. Remove any objects or decorations from the mantle and use painter’s tape to cover any areas you don’t want to paint, such as the fireplace surround or the floor. Sand any rough or uneven areas on the wall and mantle to create a smooth surface for painting. The previous owners had left a TV mount on the wall so there was quite a lot of patchwork and sanding to do.
Step 3: Paint Your Fireplace Wall and Mantle
Now it’s time to paint! Use a paintbrush or roller to apply the paint to your fireplace wall and mantle. It’s best to apply two to three coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Make sure to paint the edges and corners of the mantle and the areas around the fireplace insert. I removed the mantle from the wall and painted it separately.
Step 4: Add a Mirror
Adding a mirror above your fireplace mantle is a great way to make the room feel larger and more open. Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of space, making them an ideal addition to any room. You can choose a traditional mirror with a decorative frame or opt for a more modern, frameless design. I’m really focusing on bringing more natural tones into my home so I chose a mirror from Home Sense with a natural wood grain finish.
Step 5: Decorate Your Mantle Once your paint has dried and your mirror is hung, it’s time to decorate your mantle. You can use a mix of candles, vases, and other decorative items to create a display that complements your new paint colour and mirror. Just remember to keep it simple and avoid cluttering your mantle with too many objects.
Updating the look of your fireplace wall and mantle doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. By changing the paint colour and adding a mirror, you can create a fresh, new look that will make your fireplace the focal point of any room. So, grab your paintbrush and get started on your DIY fireplace update today!
Below are some before and after photos:
There’s still so much more I want to do with this space but I’m so happy with the end result! Keep checking back for more updates on this room!
