Peach and the Willow

One of the most frequently asked decorating questions I get from clients is what to do with a fireplace wall, how to style the mantel and how to make them both become a “feature” and not a “flop.”  

You may have read my last blog post about my “coastal cool” kitchen renovation?  If not…click here and check it out!  When I was meeting with the couple about their kitchen, I looked into their living room (which is open from their kitchen) and noticed a very traditional fireplace mantel with a painted sheetrock wall the same color as the rest of the room.  Once the client explained the look she was hoping to achieve throughout the entire home, one that was much more coastal and contemporary, I immediately asked her if she was open to changing up the fireplace wall and mantel.  She agreed that she was and the resulting redo really set the tone for the interiors.  Check out the before and after…!

BEFORE…

AFTER…

The result is clean and contemporary with a splash of color.  The traditional mantel was removed, creamy white shiplap was wrapped around the fireplace feature wall and a floating mantel was installed…a real showstopper!

I use fresh florals and greenery in my decorating whenever possible, but when silk florals are this pretty, who can resist?  These potted Agapanthus were a Pottery Barn find!  So perfect atop the gorgeous chunk of rustic wood and in front of the crisp, white lines of the shiplap…and so realistic!

I hope this post inspires you to think outside of the box when renovating your fireplace wall and mantel!  The minimal cost of changing the look will pay off exponentially in the daily reward you will receive when looking at something so central to the aesthetic of your home.  xo

Thanks again to the Williams family for allowing me to showcase their pretty rooms on Peachandthewillow.com!

Shiplap and mantel craftsmanship for this project by Nic Roberson of Southern Made Crafting.  Check him out at http://www.facebook.com/SouthernMadeCrafting.