Do you have an old fireplace in your home, one that perhaps sees no real use anymore? Maybe it is just a dark opening, or it feels like a bit of a leftover from another time. For many folks, a fireplace that does not work or is just there can feel like a spot of wasted potential. It can also be a source of drafts, or simply not fit with how you want your living area to look right now. So, what can you do with this feature that just sits there, you know, taking up room?

This situation is actually quite common, it really is. People are always looking for clever ways to make their homes feel more open and more useful. An unused fireplace, especially one that has been bricked up or simply left empty, offers a unique chance to rethink a part of your house. It is about seeing that space not as a problem, but as a blank canvas, sort of, for something new and interesting.

You might be wondering about the best ways to tackle this. We often talk about things being "covered" in different ways. Is it "covered with" dust, or "covered by" a new piece of furniture? When we talk about a **covered up fireplace**, we are thinking about how to transform that spot, making sure we have, in a way, "covered all the angles" of design and practicality. This guide will help you explore some really good ideas for that spot.

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Table of Contents

• Why Consider a Covered Up Fireplace?
• Exploring Ways to Cover Your Fireplace Opening
  • Simple Solutions for a Quick Change
  • More Permanent Transformations
  • Creative Design Angles for Your Fireplace
• Preparing Your Fireplace for Its New Look
• Decorating Your Newly Covered Fireplace Area
• Common Questions About Covered Up Fireplaces

Why Consider a Covered Up Fireplace?

An unused fireplace, for many folks, can feel like a bit of a burden. It might just be a dark hole, or a spot that just does not quite fit with the rest of the room's feel. But thinking about a **covered up fireplace** opens up a whole lot of possibilities for your living area, you know, making it feel fresh.

One of the big reasons people choose to cover up a fireplace is to save space. That area, which once held burning logs, can take up a fair bit of floor space or wall space. By covering it, you can create a new flat surface or a recessed area that is actually useful. It is like reclaiming a little bit of your home, so it is.

Another common concern is drafts. Old chimneys can be quite leaky, letting cold air in during winter and sometimes even warm air out in summer. This can really affect your home's comfort and your energy bills. A properly **covered up fireplace** can seal off those drafts, making your home feel much more cozy and efficient, very much so.

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Then there is the look of the place. An outdated fireplace can really make a room feel old. Maybe the bricks are not the right color anymore, or the style just does not match your modern furniture. Covering it up allows you to update the aesthetic completely, giving your room a fresh, current appearance. It is a way to transform the whole vibe.

Safety is another good point. If you have little ones or pets, an open fireplace, even an unused one, can be a spot where things might fall in or where dust and debris can gather. Covering it up removes that concern, making your living space safer for everyone. This is a practical step, actually, for peace of mind.

Exploring Ways to Cover Your Fireplace Opening

When you think about a **covered up fireplace**, there are so many ways to go about it. Some solutions are quite simple, good for a quick change, while others involve a bit more work for a lasting transformation. It really just depends on what you are hoping to achieve with the space.

Simple Solutions for a Quick Change

For those who want to change the look without a lot of fuss, there are some really easy options. You could, for example, place a decorative screen right in front of the opening. This is like putting a nice piece of art there, something that looks good and also hides the dark spot. It is a very quick way to get a new feel, you know.

Another idea is to lean a large piece of artwork or a mirror against the opening. This works especially well if the mantelpiece is still there. The art becomes the focal point, drawing your eye away from the unused fireplace. It is a simple trick that makes a big difference, very much like adding a new picture to a wall.

You could also place a piece of furniture directly in front of it. Think about a small cabinet, a storage chest, or even a cozy armchair. This literally "covers" the opening with something useful or comfortable. It is a practical way to use the space, and it can also add a nice touch to the room, so it can.

For a bit of greenery, you could fill the opening with potted plants. Ferns or tall, leafy plants look quite striking against the dark background. This brings a touch of nature inside and makes the area feel alive. It is a really refreshing change, and it makes the space feel more vibrant, too it's almost.

More Permanent Transformations

If you are looking for something more lasting, there are ways to create a truly **covered up fireplace** that blends seamlessly with your wall. One common method is to use drywall to close off the opening completely. This gives you a smooth, flat surface that you can paint or wallpaper just like the rest of your wall. It is a bit more involved, but the result is a clean look.

Another popular idea is to build custom shelving or a built-in cabinet over the fireplace opening. This turns a wasted space into valuable storage or display area. You could have shelves for books, or a cabinet to hide away media equipment. It is a really smart way to make the most of that spot, and it can look quite elegant, too.

You might even consider putting in a decorative fireplace insert that does not produce heat. This could be an electric fireplace that gives off a cozy glow without needing a chimney, or even just a decorative facade. It keeps the idea of a fireplace but changes its function, so it does. This is a good choice if you still like the look of a hearth.

Some people choose to brick up the opening completely, matching the existing brickwork if possible, or covering it with a new material like stone veneer. This creates a solid wall where the fireplace once was. It is a very permanent solution, and it can give a strong, unified look to the wall, you know, making it feel complete.

Creative Design Angles for Your Fireplace

When you are thinking about your **covered up fireplace**, you can really get creative with how you use that newly transformed space. It is about seeing all the possibilities, sort of like "covering all the angles" of what that spot could become. You can make it a true design feature.

Consider creating a recessed niche. If you have covered the opening with drywall, you can cut out a smaller, decorative alcove within that new wall. This niche can then hold a special sculpture, a vase of flowers, or a collection of small items. It adds depth and interest to the wall, and it is a really unique touch, that is for sure.

Another idea is to turn it into a hidden storage spot. With a bit of carpentry, you could install a flush door that blends into the wall, revealing a small cupboard inside. This is a brilliant way to hide away remotes, magazines, or other bits and pieces that tend to clutter a living room. It is quite clever, actually, and very practical.

You could also make it a spot for a small art gallery. If the area is covered flat, you can hang a series of small framed pictures or photographs, creating a curated display. This turns the old fireplace area into a personal statement, reflecting your tastes. It is a lovely way to personalize your space, and it makes the wall feel quite special.

Think about using lighting to highlight the area. Even if it is just a flat wall, a carefully placed wall sconce above it, or even some LED strip lights around a new frame, can draw attention to the spot. This creates a nice ambiance and makes the **covered up fireplace** area a focal point, even without a fire. It is a good way to add warmth to the room, too.

Preparing Your Fireplace for Its New Look

Before you get started on any of these ideas for your **covered up fireplace**, there are some important steps to take. Proper preparation means your new design will look better and last longer. It is about making sure everything is ready for the change, very much so.

First, give the fireplace area a really good clean. Remove any soot, ash, or debris from inside the firebox and around the hearth. A good vacuuming and a wipe-down with a damp cloth will do wonders. This removes any lingering smells or dust, which is quite important for a fresh start, you know.

Next, you should address any drafts. This is a big one for many homeowners. You can seal the flue by installing a chimney balloon or a top-sealing damper. For the opening itself, you might use rigid insulation board cut to fit snugly, or even a heavy-duty plastic sheet. This stops cold air from coming in and warm air from escaping. It is a smart move for comfort and for saving on energy, honestly.

It is also a good idea to check for any structural issues. Look for loose bricks, cracks, or signs of moisture. If you find anything concerning, it might be best to have a professional take a look. Making sure the structure is sound before you cover it up is a really important step for safety and for the longevity of your new design, so it is.

Finally, consider the ventilation. Even if you are not using the fireplace, a little bit of air circulation can help prevent musty smells or moisture buildup inside the chimney. Some people install small, discreet vents if they are completely sealing the opening. This is a detail that often gets overlooked, but it can make a difference, apparently.

Decorating Your Newly Covered Fireplace Area

Once your fireplace is successfully **covered up fireplace**, the fun part begins: making it look amazing! This is where you can really let your personal style shine. The newly flat or transformed space gives you a fantastic opportunity to create a new focal point in your room, you know, something special.

If you have covered the opening with drywall, consider painting that section a contrasting color or applying a textured wallpaper. This makes it stand out as an accent wall. You could also hang a large, striking piece of art or a decorative mirror right over the former opening. This immediately draws the eye and makes the space feel intentional, very much so.

For those who built shelves or cabinets, fill them with things you love. Think about books, small sculptures, framed photos, or decorative boxes. Mix textures and heights to create visual interest. A few well-placed plants can also add life and a touch of color. This makes the area feel curated and personal, so it does.

You can also use lighting to highlight the area. A stylish table lamp on a new shelf, or perhaps a pair of wall sconces flanking the space, can create a warm glow. This is especially effective in the evenings, making the area feel cozy and inviting. It is a simple way to add ambiance, actually, and it makes the space feel more finished.

Even if you have just put a screen in front of the opening, you can still decorate around it. Place a beautiful rug in front of the area, or arrange a couple of comfortable chairs nearby to create a cozy reading nook. The idea is to make the entire zone feel inviting and purposeful, you know, like a true part of your living space.

Remember, this transformed space is an extension of your home's personality. Don't be afraid to experiment with different arrangements and items until you find something that feels just right. You can always change things up later, too, if you want a different look, that is.

Common Questions About Covered Up Fireplaces

What can I put in front of an unused fireplace?

You can put many things in front of an unused fireplace. Some popular choices include decorative screens, large pieces of art or mirrors, potted plants, or even a small piece of furniture like a cabinet or a storage chest. The idea is to make the space look appealing and to hide the opening, you know, in a nice way.

Is it OK to cover a fireplace?

Yes, it is generally fine to cover a fireplace, especially if it is not in use. However, it is important to ensure the chimney is properly sealed to prevent drafts and moisture issues. If you plan to use the fireplace again in the future, make sure your covering solution is reversible. You should check local building codes for any specific rules, too, just to be safe.

How do you seal an old fireplace?

To seal an old fireplace, you typically start by cleaning out the firebox. Then, you can use a chimney balloon or a top-sealing damper to block the flue. For the opening itself, you might use rigid insulation board, plywood, or even brick it up permanently. Ensuring a tight seal helps with energy efficiency and stops drafts. For more information on sealing techniques, you might look at resources from home improvement sites, such as HGTV's guide on sealing an unused fireplace.

Learn more about home design solutions on our site, and link to this page for more ideas on transforming unused spaces.