In June, I focused on our fireplace, transforming it into a modern beauty. This modern fireplace with floating shelves design has given our space a new vibe that feels refreshing and relaxed. Check out all the details and design that went into curating this work of art.
As of July 4th, 2019, we have been in our house for 3 years, which is the longest we have ever lived in a home. We LOVE moving; I know we are CRAZY! While I do have the itch to move and build our dream home, the timing just isn’t right, so I am working on making this house feel like home. Slowly but surely, things are coming around.
The Before
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Modern Floating Fireplace – Design Phase
When designing permanent elements for a home, there are a few things I always consider before I get to the drawing board;
Scale, Function and Aesthetics
These are three crucial aspects that can make or break a good design. I consider these basic guidelines then sit down with my sketchpad and architectural ruler to get started. I feel it is essential to create something timeless yet unique. I never want to design something that is already out there for the masses. I like to create original designs that force me to think “outside of the box.”
I had some architectural elements I don’t necessarily love, but had to integrate those aspects into the new design since I wasn’t willing to spend money on changing them.
Aesthetics
Be YOU! I can’t stress that enough. Instead of trying to duplicate what you see on Pinterest, use it as inspiration to create something you haven’t ever seen before. The focal point (and center) of the fireplace wall is approximately 3” deeper than the other parts of the wall, which called for brainstorming that overwhelmed me many, many times.
Adding different textures was essential to achieve the unique design I was dreaming of. The stained 8” beam resting atop the painted structure integrated something original that sets this modern fireplace apart from other designs I have seen. What made the aesthetics even more unique was carrying the stained beam across the main structure over to the floating shelves side of the fireplace.
PRO TIP: Be sure to have cabinets and other millwork stained for a professional finish.
My hesitation with adding floating shelves was the fact that I would need to style them with accessories… meaning more items to dust. “It will be worth it” I kept telling myself; this was true. Selecting paint colors (exact colors listed below) is always tricky. Make sure you choose colors with undertones that work well with your existing materials (tile, other colors, fixtures, etc.).
Scale
The area to the right of the original fireplace always felt off-balance and insufficient. I continually tried to add décor (fiddle fig, chair, etc.) to compensate for the lack of balance. When coming up with the new design, this was something I hyper-focused on to eliminate this problem. With the addition of floating shelves that seamlessly connected to the focal point of the fireplace, I was able to utilize the space but also add that unique design; I knew the area deserved.
The original fireplace had a traditional and builder-grade appearance but was also too small for the wall. To determine the height of the fireplace, I considered the average male height (5’9″) and made sure that the top of the fireplace was above that. I love when pictures are taken in front of a fireplace, and the people appear tiny because of the scale of the fireplace. Mission accomplished!
Remember the center wall that is 3″ deeper than the other walls? Well, I needed the new fireplace to be the width of this instead of having blank space as I did before. I carried the mantle from edge to edge, making sure the wall felt to scale. The total length of the fireplace was 112″, that’s what I call grand fireplace design!
Function
Technically it’s Christmas in July right now so don’t judge me for bringing up my next point. How will my new modern floating fireplace work during Christmas? Where will I set up my tree(s)? These are important questions to ask yourself… if you ask me! Think long term when designing your new space. You will utilize this area year-round, so be sure to consider all aspects when it comes to function.
I needed somewhere to store blankets, so I thought floor space under the shelves left the perfect space for me to style a basket with throws. During the winter, I will lay on the floor in front of the fireplace, enjoying the heat while I nap, also important. Consider your wants AND needs before designing something for your home.
An important factor for our modern fireplace with floating shelves was simply curating something that utilized the space well but also became a stunning focal point for our living room. The floating shelves were set from the arched entryway approx. 5″ leaving no risk of running into them and making sure things didn’t feel crowded. I left 12″ of space between each cabinet so that there was room for accessories that wouldn’t feel puny; I needed some height and volume within each setting, see my go-to rules when designing or styling any shelf.
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Details
Marble
Stain
Paint
Before jumping into your next home project, be sure to consider scale, function, and aesthetics, so you create something balanced, works well, and is uniquely beautiful.
Something I didn’t mention above; I was forced to also think of the aerial view of the fireplace since you can see the top of the mantle from our landing area upstairs. That aspect inspired me to extend the mantle past the traditional point of the fireplace over to the right side. Such an exclusive design that I have never seen before.
Sketch out your design (to scale), so you can consider all elements before construction begins. I made sure to note precisely where electrical outlets were so that I didn’t interfere with them. Don’t forget light switches, accurate measurements, and walk space.
The After – Modern Fireplace with Floating Shelves
Just looking back, WOW, this room has made quite the transformation since this time last year. Transforming a space can take time and a whole lot of patience and then some more patience, but I promise if you commit to taking on a fireplace remodel it will be worth it.
I am ecstatic with the transformation of our modern fireplace with floating shelves. It went from a drab and somewhat dated fireplace to a grand modern fireplace. I am signing off for a bit, to enjoy the last week of our vacation, but can’t wait to share all the details when we return!!
Thoughts?
YOUR COMMENT