What to Do With Your Fireplace in Warm Weather

The fireplace is used to being the center of attention as millions of homeowners enjoy the warm atmosphere that a glowing fireplace brings to a living space in the winter. Now that the flames have been extinguished for the season, you’re probably wondering what you can do with your fireplace to make it just as inviting in the warmer months. In the summer, the fireplace is like a blank canvas. With a little creativity, you can turn it into a visual centerpiece. Here are five decorating ideas for your fireplace in warm weather.

Inspection and Cleaning

With the excitement of summer, you’re probably anxious to jump right in and decorate your fireplace. Although cleaning the fireplace may not be on the top of your list of summer activities, it’s a great time to have your chimney sweep inspect and clean the chimney. Annual chimney inspection and cleaning are necessary to ensure that the fireplace and chimney will operate safely.

Cleaning the chimney removes the creosote, soot, ash, and other contaminants that pose a risk of fire. It will also eliminate the pungent odors that can fester in warmer weather. You’ll have a clean canvas for decorating, and you will avoid the rush later in the year. If the technician discovers that some chimney repairs are necessary, you will be able to get it fixed so that your fireplace will be ready when cooler weather arrives.

Botanical Garden

Dressing the fireplace with a mix of greenery to create an indoor botanical garden is a great way to liven up the living space. Just be sure to choose plants that don’t require a lot of sunlight like Begonias, Snake Plant, Philodendron, and Chinese Evergreen, to name a few.  When you’re ready to use your fireplace again, you can relocate the plants to other rooms in your home.

Stacks of Logs

Arranging several different stacks of logs in alternating positions to creates an interesting rustic visual presentation. It works exceptionally well with wood and neutral color furnishings. You can mix and match different types of wood pieces and species to customize the appearance even further.

Hang a Mirror

Hanging a mirror above the fireplace will make small and dark spaces appear larger and brighter. It’s not just the mirror, but the frame that will also bring out the beauty of a stone or brick masonry fireplace and complement your living space. For example, there are many different frame styles in a variety of materials like wood, metal, and brass to choose from. Be sure to select a mirror that is not too big or too small.

Fireplace Screen

A fireplace screen that is used as a decorative element is a simple and elegant way to draw attention to the surround and mantle rather than the fireplace opening. A fireplace screen is also a much-needed safety accessory that will keep kids and small pets away from the fireplace all year long. Fireplace screens are available in a variety of styles and ornamental designs to create the perfect summertime ambiance for your home.