I love a 70’s ranch style home as much as the next interior design junkie. I see potential every where I look. They usually have beautiful deep moldings, hand blown light fixtures, large lots with mature landscaping and previously installed wood floors buried under four inches of shag carpeting. Another thing most all of them have in common is a red brick fireplace. If you are really unlucky, they also come with at least three walls of wood paneling. Mom, I’m talking to you too. Are you reading this?
The first thing I think of when consulting with a client about a fireplace makeover is lightening up the space. This is especially true if wood paneling is involved. There are lots of fabulous products on the market for professional faux finishers that can transform just about any surface. Without any demolition, we are able to work over top of the existing structure to create a totally new look. Here are some before and after photos of a recently completed fireplace that we faux finished to look like french limestone.
1970’s Brick Fireplace Wall Before
1970’s Fireplace with Faux Limestone Makeover
Faux Limestone Fireplace
Here is a fireplace that we faux finished right over top of Hardie backer board.
Hardie Backer Board Fireplace Before
Hardie Backer Board Fireplace with Faux Limestone Finish
This is a fireplace by my facebook and twitter friend, Darrell Morrison.
Darrell Morrison fireplace before
Darrell Morrison fireplace after makeover
He’s got a cool video HERE on his site that shows the process from start to finish. He is doing some amazing work in Vancover.
So, when you think fireplace update, don’t think demolition, think “makeover”.
Im glad you found my fireplace make over of value. As I’m sure you know lots of things come into play when working near high heat elements be sure to always use no combustible materials like lime plaster. Nice site and beautiful work keep it.
Cheers
Darrell Morrison
The limestone finishes are incredible – love them all!
Hi,
I like using what you have and improving on it. Love the fire place – what a difference some elbow grease and creativity will make. Love the fact that there is a video and you included it. The black mantle looks spectacular with the finish – well done!
Barb