Hearth Room Decorating

Hearth rooms were historically spaces near the kitchen that featured a fireplace. In modern times, they are distinctively casual family rooms where the focal point of the decor is still the fireplace. There are several ways to highlight the hearth area to create a space that is comfortable and functional. The room often features overstuffed furniture and country-style accents, giving the space a cohesive, casual look. By incorporating a few simple decorating items and accentuating the fireplace focal area, you can create a family-friendly design. The final result is a timeless decor to entertain family and friends throughout the years.

Furniture Arrangement

Create a conversation area around the hearth focal point of the room. Place a large, braided area rug on the floor to visually anchor the furniture grouping. Face the couch several feet away from the hearth and position it parallel to the fireplace. Arrange two upholstered chairs on each side, facing each other, halfway between the hearth and the couch. Add a coffee table in front of the couch and an end table on each side for a basic furniture grouping with optimal decorating appeal and balanced visual weight.

Mantel Decoration

Decorate the mantel and hearth to visually amplify its importance as the major focal point in the space. Hang a large painting, decorative wreath or rustic mirror above the mantel to coordinate with the room's decorating style and color scheme. Flank each side of the mantel with a wood-based candlestick and colorful candle to give the display a symmetrical look. Place a nonflammable area rug on the floor in front of the fireplace to extend the visual weight of the entire hearth area. Display an assortment of firewood in a twig basket next to the fireplace to serve as a functional and decorative accent.

Fabric Selection

Incorporate casual upholstery materials in the hearth room decor to create a space with comfortable style. Choose large, overstuffed couches and chairs in fabrics, such as chenille and leather, to give the room a casual appearance. Add pillows in checked country prints, and drape a crocheted throw over the arm of a couch to further the informal feeling of the room. Comfort is key in a hearth room decor, so select fabrics with a soft feel and simple look for best results.

Decorative Accents

Accessorize the hearth room decor with a few country items. Add decorative accents to the hearth room decor to give it character and dimension. Group a collection of vintage birdhouses on an accent table. Display a grouping of twig picture frames on a shelf with family photographs. Hang vintage tools on an empty wall. Place woven baskets on a basket display tree. Keep accents to a minimum for a fireplace room design that has a comfortable and serene final appearance.



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