You don’t see many fireplaces in the kitchen these days, but in Colonial times they were the center of the home; where meals were prepared and how the home was heated. I’ve always loved the idea of having a fireplace in our kitchen. Recently, Kirk and I looked at fireplaces and inserts, which got me dreaming of a kitchen fireplace, again. While we were looking I realized that I pretty much have a fireplace that extends off my kitchen — in an area that could easily be considered a kitchen space. Our fireplace has great potential to be a kitchen fireplace – especially with a little upgrade. Until we get to the fireplace project which is on the “list” I did a little re-arranging here.
Changing and redecorating our mantel (and other rooms) is a common practice for me. In fact, change is the one constant in our home. This time I took on the mantel with a totally new look in mind for the fireplace. I aimed for a seamless transition from the kitchen to the fireplace area. The fireplace isn’t really part of the kitchen or the rest of the room for that matter. It is awkwardly situated and not the primary focal point. It is behind the recliners which face the television in the great room and not really “in the kitchen.” Currently, an antique children’s table and chairs occupy the area providing a perfect spot for the grandkids to explore their creativity with coloring, paint, playdough, and eating at the table.
When we remodeled our kitchen (many years ago), we had matching cabinets made for either side of the fireplace. Looking back I’m so glad we did that — it makes the fireplace feel more like an extension of the kitchen – which really was my intention at the time, even if I did forget.
To incorporate the fireplace into the kitchen area, I pulled out some of my ironstone pieces and started arranging them on the mantel. I tried to keep it a more relaxed and less formal look. Next, I added the greenery for a little color and hung an enamel pitcher.
Adding dishes, food (avocados and limes), my mom’s cast iron trivet, some wicker and even cutting boards helped claim the space as a kitchen area.
For the other side of the fireplace, I shopped the house and moved the antique scale from its perch on top of the fridge, and placed it on the vintage picnic basket. Adding a vintage crock with a plant and some more breadboards kept the area looking more like a kitchen space.
Now, this challenging space – the small fireplace area feels and looks like it belongs with the kitchen. Keeping items like produce on the side cabinets works nicely for me as I try to keep the countertops relatively clear. I’m enjoying having more of my ironstone on display and find that I use it more when it is easy to access. This new way of thinking and incorporating this area into the kitchen has opened up more useable kitchen space instead of just being a place to stack some books or a set a basket. While I like the vintage mirror, I’m keeping my eye out for some type of vintage or even modern art for over the mantel.
We plan to upgrade this current gas fireplace, but first, we have to decide whether we want a wood-burning insert or another gas fireplace. Both of us could be convinced either way. I love the idea of wood burning, but the cleanliness and simplicity of a gas fireplace are enticing too. As much as I would love an open firebox, Kirk says “no,” because they aren’t energy efficient, so we will choose an insert or a wood burner.
When we do this change, regardless of the type of fireplace, I’d like to raise the firebox up so it would be more visible from other areas in the great room. Here are some of my inspiration photos …
I’d love to hear your ideas and recommendations on fireplace options. Anyone else have a kitchen fireplace?
