As part of the same family room remodel project where we built a new desk, we built a new fireplace that also serves as the new entertainment center.
before
The existing fireplace was a gas unit framed with cabinets and bookshelves. The owner, a client we had worked with several times before, wanted to eliminate the clutter and give the room a new look. The solution, however, needed to include a new gas fireplace, a flat panel television, and large surround-sound speakers.
initial concepts
We studied a few options and settled on a fireplace that the owner came across in an idea book borrowed from Margaret Carter Interiors. Working from the photo, the final solution was melded to accomodate actual dimensions of the space, television, fireplace, and speakers to be installed.
preliminary design
After one more round of revisions based on an on-site mock-up, we settled on the final design below:
finished fireplace
The fireplace surround is fabricated from hand-selected slabs of Brazilian soapstone. This dark colored stone is very smooth with a matte finish and helped blend the black frames of the fireplace and electronic equipment. Triple-laminated sections form the mantel, hearth, and capping piece. While it's a contemporary design to complement the client's home, it draws on traditional typology that one would associate with images of hearth, fireplace, and mantel.
It's become common to mount a television above the fireplace. While not my first choice, some rooms just don't have another surface or area in which to place a large, flat-panel television. This room was such an example. As a bit of a shrine for the fireplace and television, we were all very pleased with the way it came together.
Credits:
Margaret Carter Interiors -paint selection, carpeting, and concept photo
International Marble and Granite -soapstone fabrication and installation
Marble Systems, Inc. -stone wholesaler and supplier
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