We have a very common, generic propane fireplace/ mantle/hearth that I would like to improve on it. I don't so much mind the mantle (despite it being the standard painted MDF mantle from a big box store), I mostly just don't like the tiles around the fireplace. The fireplace insert itself is very boring too, but I am not sure I want to spend the **$ to replace.
I need help on options / approach.
I was thinking of just removing the vertical pillars and tiling from the floor to the bottom of the existing mantle. A more interesting tile would distract from the boring fireplace insert, particularly if it was a slighly wider section of tiles. This would also allow me to avoid the extra cost and effort replacing the fireplace and leaving the existing mantel would mean less drywall repair (I'd tile the space left by the removed pillars).
The hearth is currently flush with the hardwood floor, if I replaces the hearth tiles with tiles of the same thickness, I could keep the hearth as is, but I suspect I could build a raised hearth. The bottom of the fireplace is 5.5" above the floor, so i could build a low-profile hearth?
I am trying to keep this a DIY project. Should I consider upgrading the mantle as well?
I am going to be really honest here and say that I would leave your fireplace as it is.
It sounds like you would prefer a more contemporary look, but what you are talking about is actually a pretty big project. And a pretty expensive project. And it will require some precise skill. And your fireplace is great already.
I think you might be focusing on the wrong thing for the room. Once you get the room furnished (I am assuming from what I can see that it isn't) and once the fireplace is accessorized it will seem more like a comfortable part of the space.
Please reconsider your plans.
And I am going to add that I have a hard time being so bluntly honest. But really, don't do what you described.
Go ahead and get rid of that tile, especially if you're keeping the battleship gray walls, but leave the hearth and mantle as is. You need some color in the room so hit the tile showrooms and find something that will take the eye off all that gray. Marble comes in lots of colors and can get expensive but you'll only be buying 15-20 square feet.
I'd also leave it "as is" structurally, but the stark white with the gray walls and tile seems a bit too dramatic. Have you thought about re-painting the mantle to a softer white or even a color?
Posts: 2544 | Location: usa | Registered: Sep 28, 2002
I see nothing wrong with the grey tile. The simplicity of the insert looks just fine. I agree with Sunny Daze on changing the color of the pillars & mantle. That stark white is overwhelming. It makes the mantle look top heavy. As to what color, that depends on the colors you use in the room. I like the charcoal walls.
I showed the photo to an interior designer friend. She suggested to use the lightest color of grey that "is in the tile" for the paint color for pillars & mantle. That way you are keeping it a color that will go with just about anything in the future.This message has been edited. Last edited by: noraj,
