My husband and I are fortunate to have a real, woodburning fireplace in our rec room. It's great during the winter and especially cosy on Christmas morning. However, when it's not in use, the firebox is a gaping black hole that, frankly, looks creepy.
To ward off that gloomy feeling I place a decorative photo screen in front of the firebox when not in use. I also sometimes use a firebox-sized tea-light holder when I want to have a quick 'fire' without having to light the fireplace. One could also place a tray of chunky pillar candles in front of the firebox to create an instant 'fire' as well.
There are so many lovely tea-light holders available that would work in this area of the fireplace. An arched tea-light holder would be lovely in a fireplace with an arched opening. With any of the arrangements that you may choose to use in the firebox, adding a mirror behind the display will double the look and reflect much-needed light to the dark area.
When using candles, please remember to use caution around pets and children as the candles will be in reach of both since they are close to the floor. Ensure that you also have sufficient clearance above the candles. (Placing them right in the firebox might not be an option. Place them in front of the firebox to ensure safe burning.) Make sure there are no flowing draperies or other flammables near the candles and be sure to extinguish the candles before you go to bed. (I usually make myself a note because it's so easy to forget about candles burning in anther room.)
As you can see from our photos courtesy of Dulux paints, even a non-working fireplace can be a great focal point if treated with the right paint and accessories. The paint treatment used here is a Dulux product called River Rock, which is a texture coating available in many colours. Inside the firebox is an array of lovely accessories that can be changed seasonally or for special occasions in a snap. Of course, you can always place a stack of firewood in the box as a decorative element to replicate a real fireplace as well.
Fun for the holidays
For the holidays, a lovely poinsettia plant placed on the hearth will brighten up a dark firebox. If you have a non-working fireplace, you could create a pyramid of 'presents' in the firebox simply by wrapping boxes of graduating sizes in holiday wrap and ribbon. Large, clear containers filled with decorative ornaments are another way to cheer up a drab firebox.
For the kids, you could place a pair of Santa boots in the firebox area, indicating that old St. Nick is coming down the chimney. Use some white batting to replicate snow around the base of the boots for added fun. You can create a mini-Christmas scene using a small Christmas tree with lights, miniature furniture and other seasonal touches.
Create a mini-town square complete with skating rink and town tree. Simply cover a round or oval tray with foil and fake snow and use a mini tree for the focal point. Mini streetlamp posts and small skating figures will finish the look. Dig through the toy box for items such as figurines and cars.
A large, decorative sleigh filled with presents is another way to go. Check out the thrift stores. They are teaming with Christmas stuff right now. I managed to get my hands on a lovely, new (tag-still-on), large decorative sleigh for two dollars not too long ago. You can't go wrong at those prices.
Other times of year
When the fireplace is not used during the warmer months, there are many ways to keep the drab firebox area visually appealing. Make a small decorative folding screen out of foam core or cardboard and cover it with fabric, wallpaper or paint for use in front of the firebox. Make a decorative, freestanding fire screen using items like lattice, paint-able wood, decorative tin (punched tin, old tin ceiling tiles) or salvage architecture items.
An arrangement of fresh flowers from the garden will brighten up the area during summer months. Even a dried flower arrangement would work. Create a staggered look by using three or four small floral arrangements in varying heights. A battery-operated water fountain is a great way to add drama and soothing sounds to the firebox area. Add a few tropical plants to the mix for a summery vignette.
Enjoy your cosy fireplace this holiday season, whether it works or not. It can be a lovely focal point to your holiday festivities.
Connieoliver@shaw.ca
