The Design Files: Cover a dated fireplace with paint or plaster

Here's a subject that was raised at the recent Seattle Home Show by a reader who stopped by the Seattle P-I booth: "What are my options for changing the look of my 1950s brick fireplace and raised hearth?"

Not surprisingly, this is an issue that comes up frequently regarding brick fireplaces installed from the mid-'50s through the '70s. Often overwhelming the space, they can be the elephant in the room that nobody wants to talk about.

The answers to this question range from simply making the fireplace visually disappear to enhancing it and having it contribute aesthetically to the overall design of the room.

In the make-it-go-away camp, we have the obvious solution of simply painting it out. However, even simple solutions require thought, so you want to be sure to choose the appropriate shade for the room.

If you are one of those people who do not believe in painting brick, then stop reading here!

Once you've chosen the wall color, select a paint color for the brick a couple of shades deeper. Many people make the mistake of painting the fireplace white -- but this only works well in very traditional or highly modern settings. A deeper hue will help the "hulking mass" recede into the background.

Another paint consideration is the sheen level you should use. In most cases, a satin or semi-gloss is appropriate. Flat presents maintenance issues, particularly when it comes to removing soot, and the higher gloss paints reflect too much light.

Don't forget that you can create a wonderful focal point by painting the fireplace in an accent color. This will camouflage the color of the brick but allow its texture and geometry to contribute to the overall aesthetic of the room.

If you'd rather blow up the brick, why not resurface the area?

There is usually no value in removing the brick, but you can choose from several different looks by simply covering it with materials such as wallboard, tile, plaster, etc.

For those situations where there is a protruding hearth, you can build over it as well, or you may be able to remove it.

Once you've decided on the solution that best suits your room and needs, don't forget that there are two additional elements that contribute to the appearance of your fireplace.

One is a mantle (or lack thereof) and the other is your screen and fireplace tools. No matter what you do, you will never make a fireplace completely go away, so attention to detail is important.

While we are on the subject of focal points, let's talk about furniture arrangement.

Fireplaces don't necessarily need to be the focal point of a room. Oftentimes they are better used as a backdrop, particularly if you have a view or a television.

Ask us

Send your questions to info@thedesignfiles.com.

Robin Daly, a third-generation co-owner of Daly's Paint & Decorating in Seattle and Bellevue, can be reached at 206-633-4200 or robin@dalyspaint.com. Christian Ursino, a Seattle-based interior designer, can be reached at 206-264-0450 or design@quidnunc.net.

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