Low horizontal bookcases around a fireplace
When we installed these low horizontal bookcases around a new fireplace mantel, it totally transformed this little living room and created a cohesive feature on a once-boring wall.
The original room was pretty, but the individual elements were isolated, with the windows floating away from the mantel. Plus, the mantel was an odd "builder grade" shelf that simply stuck out into the room, and although it was sturdy enough, it looked flimsy and out of place.
Our client also wanted to install a pair of bookcases, but it was hard to tie them into the odd little mantel. During our design consultation, she also requested a balance between a traditional style (which was her boyfriend's preference) and modern (which she loved). This "transitional" style would also work well with the room, which had a blend of plain modern window trim and classic baseboard.
The challenge with this design was that due to fire codes, the mantel had to be shallower than the bookshelves. In most designs it's the other way around, with a chimneybreast that makes the fireplace deeper than the shelves.
We came up with a corbeled design that went beautifully with the plain trim but still evoked a classic silhouette.
The challenge with this design was that due to fire codes, the mantel had to be shallower than the bookshelves. In most designs it's the other way around, with a chimneybreast that makes the fireplace deeper than the shelves.
We came up with a corbeled design that went beautifully with the plain trim but still evoked a classic silhouette.
Then to everyone's delight, we took out that weird mantel-shelf.
The new fireplace surround made the existing tile really stand out beautifully, taking it from "blah" to "beautiful." It just goes to show that sometimes a seemingly dated element just needs the right context to shine again.
Our client chose an oak top which tied in well with the existing floors and stair railing. It also looked great with the pale blue walls.
The homeowners eventually plan to hang a TV above the fireplace, so the low horizontal bookcases will house their electronics and double as an entertainment center.
This is a classic project that could work with any decor. Here a Swedish-modern style (with birch logs, black-and-white photos and colorful books) sets off the clean lines... but the next homeowners could just as easily restyle it with a more romantic look.
If your fireplace is still stuck at "builder grade," give us a call. We'll add the "wow" factor.
If your fireplace is still stuck at "builder grade," give us a call. We'll add the "wow" factor.
