What To Do With A Closed Off Fireplace

There may come a time when you decide to permanently stop using your fireplace. When this happens, one of the questions our Chimney Solutions Indiana customers ask is “What to do with a closed-off fireplace?” Below are some of the more popular ideas we’ve run across or seen our customers do with their fireplaces after they’ve stopped using them.

What is a closed-off fireplace?

First, a closed-off fireplace is one that is no longer practical to use. This may be due to extensive structural damage or a general home remodel that negates the need for the system. A closed-off fireplace is not one you’ve stopped using for the summer. It will not be turned on again.

With that in mind, here are six ideas on how you can use that space once your fireplace is closed-off for good.

Turn it into a bookshelf

We love this idea: buy some shelving and professionally install it. Then, store your collection of books within your fireplace. This makes it easy to track down that favorite novel or showcase your library to family and friends.

Create an optical illusion

Another idea is to purchase a “fake” set of logs and create an optical illusion of a working fireplace. Often, these have lights under them which, using spinning mirrors and other tricks, gives the appearance of a burning fire without any heating element.

Paint the walls, then make it into a shadowbox

Whether you want to bring some woodland nature scenes or even an underwater vibe, one idea is to paint the walls of your fireplace. A closed-off fireplace makes a great shadow box, so use this to store greenery or other nature-based elements. Then, install a pair of doors to create the shadowbox effect.

Use it as a mini wine cellar

While we understand that this isn’t going to keep your wine cold, some homes don’t have a basement. You could grab a few wine racks and use the firebox as a place to store your collection of merlot, chardonnay, riesling, or rosé for that next special event.

Create a focal point

This is an open-ended tip, as there are many ideas here. You can:

• Cover the firebox completely, essentially creating a wall. Then, decorate it.
• Get a screen or replacement door and put decorative kindling in it.
• Make it into a sitting area or photo-centric part of your home.

And so much more!

Decorate it seasonally

After having Chimney Solutions Indiana clean your fireplace for the last time, decorate it for each season. Add fir trees at Christmas, ivy in May, and patriotic decorations around the Fourth of July.

Before you get started, schedule a sweep and inspection

While you may be preparing to say goodbye to your fireplace as a functional heat source, you will still want to have it professionally swept and inspected.  This will help to ensure that your chimney system is free of leaks and structural damage that would harm your home. Would you like to get on our calendar? Then call the Chimney Solutions Indiana team at 317-757-6979 or send us a message via our website contact form.