How do you transform an old ugly bulky fireplace into a small one?

Hello there,

knock the bricks out starting from the very top. Lay Dust Sheet down first though to catch everything........

Get rid of that bulky mantel and knock out the bricks. You will have to wait and see what is the behind the bricks before you decide on a design.

Why? I like it. I know, you don't. Gee, what a mess you'll have.

You are going to have to take the bricks out, and it is going to be a job. then you will have to frame it out, sheet rock and put in tiles. It is not going to be an easy job.

Here are some videos to help you

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/knock-down-brick-fireplace-29461.html this one is a step by step tutorial

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYMcrU-VKS0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1iryeWSL7U

You could remove the bulky, wooden mantle and the bulky, brick hearth on the bottom. Paint solid white or whitewash the brick fireplace facade (face). Then you can add your personal finish on the top/mantle area, and along the bottom, front. Not a total makeover, but easier and less messy than knocking down the entire thing!

I’d try something easier than ripping it out. Perhaps paint everything white, lighten it visually. Put a large gold framed mirror centered on the newly painted mantle. ( find a large mirror at Goodwill, if it’s not gold , spray paint it!) keep junk off the mantle.