Giving An Old Fireplace New Life - A Fireplace Face Lift!
From sad to stunning, a re-vamped mantel and fireplace is now the main
attraction in one 1905-era home.
To keep or not to keep; that was the question Robin Davis had to consider
many times in his 1905 home. The vacant house was set to be bulldozed
when Robin stepped in. As a general contractor, he recognized the beauty
of the 12-foot-tall pine ceilings and hardwood floors and the potential
for a stellar fireplace.
Saving and Improving
Robin ripped out the wall surrounding two coal-burning brick fireplaces
in the center of the house. He then removed the wall between the fireboxes
to create an open fireplace. The extra-tall chimney was in good shape,
so Robin, with wife Kat's input, sketched a design that would box in the
brick structure. The plan allowed for significant airspace between the
brick and new fireplace. "We wanted it to be larger than the original
chimney and fireplace, but not so massive that it would look out of place
in the room," says Robin. It was framed with gypsum drywall, and
new mantels and trimwork were added.
Finishing to Perfection
Working with interior designer Connie Crosby, Kat took the improved
fireplace and surrounding areas to the next level. They chose a warm
khaki for the walls and fireplace with white trim that pops against
the pine ceilings and floors. A large gold mirror and tall branches
nestled in black vases adorn one of the mantels, emphasizing the chimney's
height. Now wood-burning, the fireplace glows in the living and dining
areas.
Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Nov 2005
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved
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