Fireplace Project

 Since moving to Floida 3 years ago we have really missed having a fireplace to read by, sit around, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. Last month we took the plunge and bought an electric fireplace unit to be inserted into our living room wall. This project  took less than 2 weeks to complete. Peter started by opening the wall to build a box for the fireplace to fit into.

The first layer cut.

Pretzel loved the new shortcut through to the kitchen!

Once the opening was done Peter had the job of boxing in the hearth and  wall.

Ready for the electrician to run a wire for the plug.




 







After the fireplace is inserted into the wall we found a granite warehouse nearby to choose a piece to have cut and polished for the hearthstone.  Next came the mantle installation and tiling around the fireplace.  



We had some conflict over what color to paint the mantle. We loved the neutral look of  unfinished wood but once you polyurethane it it would darken and not match any woodwork in our room.  So we chose a neutral beige color which we are happy about.  After living with this color for a few weeks we will paint the finish coat on if we still like it.  Jane then moved all the living room tables into the garage to refinish the tops. After years of use the finish had scratches and marks which needed to be redone.  It took a full week to allow drying time between stripping, staining, and 3 coats of polyurethane but we are really happy with the results. Peter made this furniture (solid cherry) years ago so we wanted to keep it. 

Old scratched surface

Newly finished surface...priceless!





Everything is now done...and we love the finished product!!