Makeover Your Fireplace By Christmas

The fireplace is the heart of any holiday home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all to enjoy. If your fireplace is looking a little tired or outdated, this year might be the perfect time to give it a makeover. While most renovations take some time to plan and execute, there are ways you can update your fireplace for this Christmas. Here are a few easy ways you can create the perfect place to hang your stockings: 

​​Paint the existing brick. A fresh coat of paint is the easiest and fastest way to dramatically change the look of your fireplace. Consider painting it a bold color or whitewashing the brick. 

Install or change out your mantel. A mantel adds a decorative touch to your fireplace and provides a space to display artwork, candles, and of course serves as a place to hang your stockings. Choose a mantel that complements the style of your fireplace surround and the overall décor of your living room.

Install a fireplace screen. A fireplace screen is a must-have for safety and style. It will help protect your carpet and furniture from sparks, and it will also add a decorative touch to your fireplace. For added elegance, consider a glass fireplace screen. 

If you are looking for more of an overhaul, I’ve included a few ideas on more major renovations that will have your fireplace ready for next year’s stockings. 

Create a statement wall with floor to ceiling tile. In this mid-century modern, we made the fireplace a focal point by installing floor to ceiling marble tile. To keep the design sleek, we did not add a mantle or front hearth. 

Install built-ins around your fireplace. This is something that typically needs a professional to build so they look original to the space. You can also reach out to a custom cabinetry designer like Braemar Cabinetry if you are looking for additional storage solutions. 

Don’t have a fireplace? Add one! This is on my wishlist for next year. I currently stream my fireplace via Netflix to feel festive during the holidays, but I have my eye on a nice gas insert that will allow me to have a real fireplace without a chimney. 

Not sure where to start for this year or next? Reach out to Marks-Woods and our design team. We’d love to help!

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Kara Hill

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Kara Hill is the Director of Marketing at Marks-Woods Construction Services, an award-winning residential renovation and major addition general contractor and design-build firm serving Alexandria and the surrounding Washington, D.C. area. Kara joined the Marks-Woods team in 2018 as an independent consultant, and quickly advanced into her current position leading all marketing strategies and campaigns for Marks-Woods. Kara resides in Old Town Alexandria with her husband, infant son and two dogs.

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