Flames crackling in a fireplace are an instant mood setter, but what if your fireplace doesn’t work? Many chimneys, particularly in rentals, have been closed off as fire hazards; other people find fireplaces just too much of a hassle to use regularly. Still, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck staring into a dark void under your mantel.
Check out these creative ways to decorate a nonworking fireplace so it’s a centerpiece in your living area.
1. Install an intricate screen
Even if your fireplace isn’t working, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make it a feature in your living room, notes Anna Shiwlall, an interior designer with 27 Diamonds in Orange County, CA. Instead make it shine with a decorative fireplace screen.
“Look around to find one with an intricate design—it’ll add a lot of depth and sparkle to your room.”
2. Create a book nook
It’s unexpected—and it works.
“All you have to do is install a couple of simple shelves inside the fireplace box and then line up your books,” explains Lorena Canals, an interior designer from Hastings on Hudson, NY. Another uncommon approach is to place vases of varying shapes and sizes in this spot.
“You can go with different colors or stick to a monochromatic theme,” Canals says.
3. Showcase some art
Have a painting you don’t know what to do with? Or a large bust or other piece of sculpture? Both can take up residence in your fireplace.
“Remove the grate first, clean the area well, and then install the picture,” says Carol Marcotte, an interior designer with Form & Function in Raleigh, NC. Lean it on the outside to fill the opening, or prop it against a stack of books.
4. Bring in nature
A plant with full leaves is an excellent filler for a nonworking fireplace. Succulents and cacti are also smart in this space, because they’re low-maintenance and long-lasting. Smooth round rocks in varying shades of white piled into a cairn is another way to evoke the outside. Or choose a nautical theme, whether or not you live by the shore.
“A large piece of coral or a bunch of beautiful shells would be lovely here,” notes Marcotte.
5. Paint it a bold color
Bold paint also works well in a nonworking fireplace. Canals suggests painting the interior with a bright color or using wallpaper (it’s the perfect spot for that leftover roll you have laying in your closet). Or go a step further and consider installing tiles: A pop of pretty ceramics will brighten the whole room.
6. Lay a fire
Well, not with actual flames, but the logs themselves.
“I love to use faux logs, like the porcelain ones below, or real birch logs, which imply that the space could be a working fireplace,” explains Marcotte. Twinkly Christmas lights or candles are also nice (shop a few yard sales for a funky candelabra or other interesting candlesticks). Pillars of candles at different heights look fabulous. “This design is made even better (and safer) with the good-quality battery candles available today.”
Use crushed glass or rocks to fill the fireplace’s interior, and then add a bunch of electric candles to give it a romantic feeling.
7. Store kitchen overflow
Have a bunch of pretty bowls to stack or a tray to display? Here’s your spot. A beautiful platter can be placed in a nonworking fireplace with a plate stand behind it. This space can also double as wine storage, either with a rack inside or simply stand the bottles up. Or take a pretty basket and fill it with placemats, napkins, and tablecloths, and then stash it here for easy access when it’s time to set the table.
8. Lend it to a pet
Your pup deserves its own little clubhouse, so give it a chance in your nonworking fireplace. Place your pet’s bed and toys in the opening and let Fido curl up in slumber. If the spot is big enough, place a piece of fabric across the front that’s been hung on a spring-loaded curtain rod. You could also place the cat’s litter box behind this curtain and finally hide the dreaded container once and for all.
——
