Fireplace Makeovers Add Extra Warmth

Before: This brick fireplace needed an update and some character.

After: The brick was covered in sheetrock which received a glazed, lime plaster finish. The mantel, from a Shanghai palace ca. 1890 or so, received a fresh finish with bronze highlights on its details and lighting in its carved openings. The Imperial Brown granite hearth finished the project.

Before: A standard builders' grade fireplace did nothing to enhance this Bridgewater, NJ family room.

After: After a faux cherry finish with gold details, this fireplace is now the focal point of the room.