Boho mantel styling is my favorite kind of “collected over time” decorating—warm, a little imperfect, and packed with texture. Layered Frames and Leaning Art Layered leaning wood frames create an easy, lived-in boho mantel focal point. When I style a boho mantel, I start by leaning 2–3 wood frames in overlapping layers so it looks easy and lived-in instead of stiff. I’ve learned that mixing one larger print with a smaller sketch keeps it casual…
A DIY fireplace wall is one of those projects that instantly makes a living room feel finished and intentional. I’ve built a few in my own spaces and for workshop clients, and the magic is always the same: add depth, add texture, and give the room a real focal point. Symmetrical Bookcase Built-Ins Symmetrical oak built-ins framing a minimalist fireplace—adjustable shelves for effortless styling. Full built-in bookshelves flanking the fireplace are classic for a reason—they…
A rustic corner fireplace can turn that awkward, unused angle of a room into the coziest spot in the house. I love how wood and stone in a corner setup instantly create a warm, grounded focal point without eating up your whole floor plan. Stone Corner Fireplace With Built-In Wood Storage Scandi stone corner fireplace with tidy wood cubbies—rustic warmth, minimal and chic. Tuck firewood cubbies into the base of a corner fireplace and it…
A good mantle garland can make your whole living room feel pulled together in about ten minutes. I love how one lush drape of greenery softens all that brick, stone, or wood and instantly turns the fireplace into the cozy focal point. Garland Framing a Large Mirror Emerald garland hugs a handcrafted oak mirror—minimal mantel magic with cozy contrast. Try running the mantle garland up and around a big mirror so it looks like the…
A great fireplace facade turns a basic firebox into the thing everyone stares at (in the best way). I’m sharing my favorite facade ideas I’ve built or helped friends build—starting with the classics and ending with a few “how is that even possible?” moments. Moody Black Facade for Contrast Moody matte-black fireplace facade with a light oak mantel—instant contrast and drama. A deep charcoal or true black fireplace facade is pure drama, and it makes…
A cozy fireplace isn’t just about the flames—it’s about everything you frame around them, from warm wood tones to soft layers you can’t wait to sink into. Dark Painted Brick for Moody Coziness Matte charcoal brick + warm flames—an oak mantel adds Scandinavian calm with cozy drama. I’ve painted brick fireplaces a deep charcoal when the room needed drama, and it makes the flames look even warmer by contrast. If you’re nervous, start with a…
Floating shelves next to a fireplace are my go-to trick for turning awkward side nooks into a polished, built-in look without bulky cabinetry. I’ve built and styled a lot of these setups, and the right shelves can make your fireplace feel bigger, warmer, and way more personal. Floor-to-Ceiling Shelf Column A floor-to-ceiling floating shelf column beside the fireplace for a taller, airier look. Running floating shelves nearly floor-to-ceiling beside the fireplace draws your eye up…
A transitional fireplace is my favorite kind of “best of both worlds” project: classic warmth with clean, modern lines. Built-In Cabinets for Symmetry Simple Shaker built-ins flanking a black fireplace add instant balance and a finished look. Any time I’ve added built-in cabinets flanking a fireplace, the whole room instantly feels finished and balanced. Keeping the doors simple (flat or lightly Shaker-style) is my go-to transitional move. A few suggestions: DIY Cabinet Hardware Jig: Ensure…
A modern corner fireplace can turn that “awkward” angle into the coziest spot in the whole house. I’ve found the secret is making it feel built-in on purpose—especially with warm wood accents and a clean, airy backdrop. Bold Tile Pop in a Clean Corner Frame Statement tile in a clean oak frame makes this modern corner fireplace the effortless wow moment. If you want the corner to be the focal point, I’ve had great luck…
A raised fireplace with a no hearth design is one of my favorite ways to keep a room feeling open, modern, and easy to clean. Hang the Firebox Like Wall Art Floating firebox, zero hearth—mounted like wall art for a clean, modern raised fireplace. The boldest raised fireplace idea I’ve done was a wall-mounted unit with nothing touching the floor, so the no hearth look turned into a true floating sculpture moment. It instantly modernizes…
