How to Create a Rustic Fireplace Look

A rustic fireplace can evoke the feel of a cabin, farmhouse, or country estate.

A rustic fireplace can add drama to any home. Incorporating natural elements like stones, rocks, and hand-hewn wood and metals, these fireplaces are admired for their artistry as well as their function. Rustic fireplaces fit in with lots of decorating styles, such as country home, mountain cabin, Craftsman, Tuscany, and even some contemporary schemes.

Things You'll Need

• A fireplace ready for a facelift
• Faux stones/rocks
• Paint
• Decorative accessories

Instructions

1. Add faux stones. When you think of a rustic fireplace, you probably envision something crafted from rock or stone. But you don't have to rebuild your existing fireplace to get a rustic look. Instead, create a stone look with faux stones. This lightweight building product is sometimes called stone veneer. A variety of styles and colors are available, but best of all, these stones are easy on the back, making it perfect for a do-it-yourself project.

2. Paint it. Not all rustic fireplaces need to be stone. Color can add a big impact, especially if you stick with a natural palette. Brick, paneled wood, and stucco fireplaces can easily be painted. Just make sure to follow nature's cue to achieve a rustic look. Think woody shades of brown and gold, but also shades of stone gray or moss green.

3. Replace or reface the mantel. Rustic fireplaces tend to have stout mantels of hand-hewn wood or stone. If your existing mantel is on the wimpy side, beef it up by cladding it with rough-sawn lumber or age-worn reclaimed boards. Another option is to replace the mantel with an old solid-wood beam or a hollow wood box made to look like a beam.

4. Accessorize it. Even if you can't change the overall appearance of your fireplace, you can achieve a rustic look by adding accessories to the mantel and hearth. Add collectibles and antiques. Heavy iron fireplace tools and andirons are both rustic and useful. And don't forget candles or other types of lighting, like oil lanterns.

Tips & Warnings

• No fireplace. No worries. Freestanding electric fireplaces come in many styles, including a rustic stone look. They are easy to install and just as easy to maintain.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish