Some projects begin with a grand vision. Others begin when you simply cannot stand looking at something for another day…
Our living room fireplace has been a work in progress for a while. And by work in progress, I mean it has been sitting there in its primer, waiting for me to decide exactly what I want to do with it.
I have ideas. Oh, I have ideas! Ever heard of Sophie’s choice?
But with Christmas decorating just around the corner, I decided that a little paint would be enough to make me happy. For now… hah! It certainly did transform my basement and my Martha Room, just a pop of color and voilà!
A LITTLE PAINT GOES A LONG WAY
I've been dreaming of adding some architectural details to the fireplace. Maybe mouldings, perhaps some beautiful tiles, and definitely a wider mantel that would give me more room to play with seasonal styling.
But those decisions can wait.
What I really wanted right now was for the fireplace to feel like it belonged in our living room, without taking over - it’s massive! So something fresh, warm and simple that would blend with everything I've collected over the years.
After considering a few warm whites, I opted for Sherwin-Williams Shoji White. It’s there and barely there, not too stark, not too creamy. Just a lovely, soft white that feels at home with the rest of my home.
AN EASY LITTLE HOME PROJECT
With my supplies ready, Dean Martin & I got to work!
Nothing particularly glamorous here. A little preparation, a coat of paint, some waiting around for (what always seems like forever) it to dry, and then a second coat.
The kind of project that doesn't require a complete weekend, a contractor, or even an actual plan.
And while I waited between coats, I was already imagining how lovely it would look with the fire going and Christmas garlands around it.
Priorities, always, obviously.
GOOD ENOUGH FOR NOW (AND I MEAN THAT IN THE BEST WAY)
Once everything was dry, I put our little treasures back in place. Family photographs, candlesticks, and a few collected favourites. And just like that, the fireplace finally felt like part of the room.
Is it my forever fireplace? Probably (read: absolutely) not.
I still love the idea of adding mouldings, tiles, and a wider mantel. Someday, when the right idea finally pops into my head. But I don't need to figure all of that out right now -
Sometimes a small change is enough to make a room feel good again. And sometimes buying yourself a little extra time is the whole point of an in-between project.
For now, I have a freshly painted fireplace, a cozy fire, and a blank canvas I get to decorate for Santa’s visit. And that makes me very happy!
P.S… Ok… I couldn't wait any longer: the Christmas garlands are officially up, and I think this little fireplace makeover looks even prettier dressed for the season. A little greenery, twinkling lights, and some ribbon. Just in time for the most wonderful time of the year! Ekkkk! Such a simple way to refresh last year’s Christmas mantel,
