Gate is there currently because we have a baby. I gravitate towards traditional style and all of the fireplaces I've saved on Pinterest have a white mantel (2nd pic for context). Will i regret painting this wood? Should i stain it a bit darker? Regrout the brick? Would eventually love built-ins and ripping up the carpet (there's definitely wood floors underneath but unsure of condition) but that's not in the budget currently. Would love some ideas/advice!
by RecipeBubbly3778
6 Comments
I’d go with staining it darker and regrouting for now. Excited for your wood floors!!
I would leave it alone for now. Is there anywhere well that the tv can go? The frame style looks awkward resting on the mantle and it’s too high up there anyway. I get keeping it out of the way for the child, but I’m thinking longer term.
Removing the carpet will be nice! Hope you get lucky.
How old is your home?
Personally… I know wood is making a comeback… but I love the white mantle… the thing is… if you paint it going back to the original wood and staining will be a huge pain… maybe you could get a gel stain that makes the wood less orange… good luck!
I’d [white wash](https://casolia.com/whitewash-brick-fireplace-ideas/) the brick, and then if the mantle still looks too orange stain that a darker color.
You seem to favor some “old fashioned” design elements, like the silhouette cutouts and the candlesticks, so I’d say “leave it” for now. It would help to see the rest of your room.
That’s a TV over the mantle? I had thought it was a painting. Also old-fashioned! If it _were_ a painting, I’d say center it vertically between the top of the mantle and the ceiling, but a TV probably shouldn’t be that high.
The modern ottoman and the matching chair or couch clash styles really glaringly. Something like a granny square afghan would help it blend in, of course, I’m old …
I LOVE your painting above the fireplace