How do You Decorate a Closed Chimney Breast?

Transforming a closed chimney breast from a plain wall feature into a stylish focal point is easily achievable by focusing on the key areas: the mantelpiece and the hearth.

A closed chimney breast offers unique opportunities to add character and visual interest to any room, even without a functional fireplace. Decorating it effectively involves treating it as a central design element.

Key Areas for Decoration

Based on effective decor strategies, you can enhance a non-active chimney breast by focusing on these two main areas:

1. Installing and Decorating a Mantelpiece: If your closed chimney breast lacks a mantelpiece, adding one instantly creates a display surface. A mantelpiece provides a perfect shelf for arranging decorative items.
2. Styling the Hearth Area: The space where the fireplace opening would typically be (the hearth) can be filled with creative displays, turning this often-empty space into a curated nook.

Decorating the Mantelpiece

Adding a mantelpiece is the first step if you don't already have one. Once installed, it serves as a versatile platform for various decorative elements.

• Layered Artwork: Lean different sized framed prints or artwork against the wall on the mantelpiece for a relaxed, gallery-style look.
• Decorative Objects: Arrange vases, candlesticks, clocks, or sculptures to add height and texture.
• Plants: Potted plants or trailing greenery can bring life and color to the display.
• Mirrors: Placing a mirror above the mantelpiece can make the room feel larger and brighter by reflecting light.

Styling the Hearth

The hearth area of a non-active chimney breast is ideal for unique and eye-catching displays. Consider placing items directly inside the opening.

According to decorative approaches for non-active chimney breasts, you can place a variety of items in the hearth. This includes:

• Flowers: Large bouquets or potted plants bring freshness.
• Logs: A neat stack of logs, even if not for burning, adds a rustic, authentic fireplace feel.
• Ornaments: Decorative sculptures, large vases, or other statement pieces.
• Books: Stacked books or a small bookshelf fitted within the opening.
• Bunting: Stringing bunting across the opening can add a festive or whimsical touch.
• Artwork: A single large piece of artwork or a collection of smaller pieces placed inside the hearth.

By combining elements on both the mantelpiece and in the hearth, you can create a balanced and attractive focal point that enhances the overall design of your room.