Don't you love fireplace renovations? Do you watch lots of HGTV too? And watch how the fireplace is often the major focal piece. And, watch the transition from just OK to something truly inspiring? Well, I had a chance to watch a fireplace transition. Live!
Background Story
The best part was that I didn't have to live through it. Actually, that wasn't the best part. The best part was that I met and got to know Gina. She made me miss my Italian friends. She's so awesome! I wonder if Italians have a gene that includes the ability to cook great food? And to be energetic, fun and just soooooo Italian!
Sooooo, back to the fireplace. Ummmm, ugly! If I were to call it dated, that would be too kind. My golf BFF called me one day to tell me her friend Gina was doing a fireplace reno. and it would be awesome for my blog. And, the fireplace was UGLY. It was big, and bold, and original to the house and just ugly.
The Planning
The original plan was that the rock removal would be a DIY. But, the size and weight of these stones made this a HUGE project and a little professional help was in order. Those were full sized rocks!
Implementing the Plan
The fireplace looked way better once the rocks were off! Even with the rocks off, it was a much cleaner, more modern look!
You know, old homes are just built so solid! Look at this fireplace built with all the cinder blocks. I know in my past new construction homes, we just had an insert, and then a mantle was slapped up, and it's done.
Next, some drywall was added. Just to totally change the look and totally clean it up!
I loved watching this come together. And I especially loved that I could breeze in, take some pictures and not have to live through this! There was a lot more renovating going on and I'll share more another day.
The Finished Look
So pretty!
Isn't it just beautiful? It is clean, fresh, and just a wonderful feature and focal point to the room. I love the mantle, the stone, and just how perfect this came together!
Before and After Reminder
Ewwwwww!
Ahhhhhhh!
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What an amazing renovation and such a beautiful fireplace!! I'm wishing the owner and her family many cozy winter nights in front of that fireplace!
**Originally published Oct. 14, 2019.
kisha Paul
How much was the total cost?
Susan Moncrieff
This project was done years ago and I don't have the cost information - sorry! It was not a project in my home.
Jenna
I also am more of a fan of the original than what it had been replaced with
momcrieff
Thanks for commenting! Yes, some people do like the original more. We all have different tastes and that's what makes home decor so interesting!
Andrea
Hello — I realize this post is a few years old - but I just bought a house - in Wisconsin & also have an ugly rock fireplace - different than this one but with giant stones that are out of the DIY realm - I’m wondering who was hired to remove the stones?
Rechel
I have a BIGGER rock wall (fireplace) like yours and it’s buklt in 1970’s. I searched for DIY’s in how to install a cabinet around it or how to clean it etc but I don’t wnag to get rid of the rock. I just want to add shelves and know how to clean it better. If you do know how to, please share it to me.
Thanks!
momcrieff
I would suggest speaking to a contractor. Find some pictures of fireplaces you like (on Pinterest?) and get a professional's opinion. I can tackle smaller DIY's, but I suspect this one is a bigger project.
amysinecox
How were the rocks removed? I know you said professionally but how without damaging the cinder blocks underneath?
Kazdot
Call me crazy, but I actually like the original fireplace best. Maybe I'd change the rest of the room to better complement it, and it may not fit in with the rest of the house, I don't know, but to me what's been created here is something sterile and boring by comparison. But that the homeowners like it best is what matters, I suppose.