Reader Project: DIY Fireplace Makeover

Before

My clients had asked me to update the fireplace in their family room. The room felt uninviting and dark.

Whitewash the Fireplace

I wanted to whitewash the fireplace to give it a new, updated look that wouldn’t break the bank. So I watered down some interior paint and brushed it on with a wet brush, wiping away with a rag as I went.

Live Edge Oak Mantel

Next I added a live edge oak mantel that I acquired from a local guy. I love getting lumber that is local to the area where I’m working. I stained it to match the flooring and I applied three coats of Polycrylic Clear (satin finish).

Shiplap

I wanted to add visual interest above the mantel, so I added shiplap. Then I painted the shiplap a warm white, with Behr Ultra’s Falling Snow, my favorite white paint. Plus: Check out these 12 incredible shiplap walls.

The Hearth

The hearth is just the old cement slab that was already there. I applied gripper primer and sealer first and then two coats of Falling Snow paint from Behr.

Trim and Baseboards

The trim and baseboards looked old and outdated. So I sanded, primed and used the same white paint on the baseboards and trim.

To learn how to prep wood trim for a smooth paint job, click here.

Faux Finished Brick

I faux-finished some gray tones onto the white brick to give it that worn/used look that the homeowners were looking for.

Painted the Walls

The homeowners had picked out a blueish-gray paint for the walls to finish the room. The color was the perfect match to compliment the warm, white trim and live edge oak lumber.