Does Your Fireplace Lack Spark?

Q: Our house came with a fireplace, which we love. Unfortunately, it lacks luster, and the room it is in is small, to boot. Is there anything we can do to enhance it or add to it?
Marie Kaplan
Dayton, Ohio

A: For maximum appeal, stick to a natural look. The fireplace shown here is strong, simple and straightforward. The brickwork with the arch, the subtle use of multi-colored bricks and the simple mantel with its corbelled supports lend an authentic old-time country feel. To maintain this look, I would not be inclined to add to your fireplace surrounds, but rather subtract a few
elements to give the area more strength and presence. For example, here, the drying rack, with its herbs and candles, detracts from the fireplace and might work better in another room of the house. Remember: A fireplace should be a focal point in a room, and all the other elements should draw the eye to it. photo: Bradley Olman

Q: We desperately want to add a fireplace to our house. Of course we want it to look like it’s been there forever, but we don’t want to totally redo the room. What is the quickest solution that will also tie in effortlessly with our country décor?
Pat Greene
Norfolk, Connecticut

A: Check out this fabulous fireplace for inspiration. Because it was built with a classic material like stone (with an inside surround of stone, too), this strong, handsome fireplace makes a bold statement, and one’s attention is drawn away from the fact that it is not a traditional fireplace. The simple but interesting mantel adds to the strength; the light wood unifies the space and makes it work as a whole, whereas a darker wood might be distracting. In addition, the built-in cupboard in the same wood serves to tie the rest of the room in with the fireplace. The yellow walls are a nice contrast to white or off-white and add an inviting, relaxing element. The painted wooden panel over the mantel is a nice substitute for the usual mirror and works well with the rest of the room’s botanical theme. photo credit: brad simmons

Q: We have added a much-needed family room to our circa-1930 house. We use our fireplace all winter long, but come summer, it seems the room needs another point of focus. How can I decorate so that the fireplace is prominent, but not overwhelming?
Maxine Sweeney
Canton, Ohio

A: This photo is a lovely example of a fireplace that fits in perfectly with its surroundings. The placement of the beams spotlights the fireplace just-right; floor-to-beam bricks at the fireplace surround unify the space as well. The simple mantel is an excellent place to display family collectibles—all of which are suitable and in keeping with the room’s mood. The dark green walls lend a sense of stability and strength to the room, while the two sofas give a cozy feel to the conversation area. How often we forget that, by placing furniture at an angle (as with the desk), we can take away from the boxiness of a space. With so much going on in this room, it becomes the perfect country getaway—winter, spring summer and fall.
Editor’s Note: Margot Gunther, ASID, is a designer who has worked on residential interiors, country inns and restaurants. •