Fresh paint in the kitchen gave us a chance to see the room with new eyes and inspired us to take the fireplace to the next level. We’ve mentioned before that we want to build out the mantel and retile the painted-over tile hearth, and now that other parts of the room feel upgraded, we’re ready to focus on this side too.
The fireplace has already improved since we moved in: we removed the old stove and painted the surround, which helped a lot. Still, with shiny penny tile running all the way to the ceiling on the opposite wall, this side of the room feels like it could use a parallel upgrade to balance the space and tie everything together.
We found plenty of inspiration online. A few fireplace makeovers we’ve admired for years kept popping up in our bookmarks and gave us ideas for building something architecturally interesting over the existing fireplace—adding a more substantial mantel and framed side columns to create a stronger focal point. Another favorite source featured tiled hearths that prompted us to consider incorporating tile here, too, since the other side of the kitchen already has a lot of it.
With those images as a starting point, Sherry and I grabbed the tape measure and got to work planning. I sketched a to-scale drawing to help us figure out proportions. The plan is mostly wood construction, but the inner frame that sits right around the firebox will be a sleek tile surround. Seeing the process on paper made the build feel much more manageable; as we construct it we’ll be able to share clearer photos and details of each step.
We debated tile options—more penny tile, a luminescent mosaic, or something more classic—and then we spotted an affordable marble subway tile that felt both timeless and budget-friendly. We wanted a tile that would complement the gray penny tile on the other side of the kitchen without matching it exactly, and marble subway tile fit that brief. It’s a classic choice that won’t date quickly, so it seemed like a safe, stylish option.
Rather than lay the subway tile in the traditional stacked or offset pattern, we decided to use a herringbone pattern to give the surround a fresh, interesting look. The herringbone will add visual texture and a slightly more elevated feel without overwhelming the rest of the room. We’re excited to try a classic material used in a less expected arrangement.
Luckily, a few gift cards helped cover most of the tile cost, so the project started out affordably. But tile is only a small portion of the materials list—the majority of the work will be wood framing and decorative trim. We planned for boards to build the base out, 1×2 pine pieces for trim details, miscellaneous molding, backer board for the tile, and masonry screws to secure everything.
We also had leftover tiling supplies from previous projects, which saved us from buying tools we already own. With tile, wood, trim, backer board, and fasteners all on hand, we were ready to begin. The plan is to build a sturdy, well-proportioned wooden mantel and surround, then finish the inner frame with the marble herringbone tile for a refined centerpiece.
Under the current paint job is a weird broken-tile texture that we painted over; that texture is still there, but it won’t be for long once the refacing begins. The new surround will conceal the existing finish and give the fireplace a cleaner, more intentional look.
If everything goes smoothly, we expect to be back with a completed tile update soon—possibly within the week. We’ve already started making progress and are looking forward to sharing the full build as it comes together.
What have you been planning or sketching lately? Any tile projects on your horizon, or finally using up a holiday gift card? We’d love to hear what you’re working on.
P.S. There was a little Clara celebration at school, so here’s a quick note about that—also, Sherry’s hair is down for once.