Focal Points in a Home

For me, the focal point in my living room is a fireplace on a corner wall. It was very plain and, well, ugly -gray 12x12 tiles which outlined a gas fireplace insert. There was nothing custom or inviting about it. It was not my style and it definitely was not matching the tan walls! I decided when I first moved in that this would be my first DIY project. (Disclaimer: DIY typically involves assistance from my Dad and sometimes my Mom.)

I was in need of inspiration for the fireplace. I had an idea in my head but needed a visual to assist me in determining what my final product would look like.  So, I poured through magazine after magazine looking for my inspiration.  I wanted something simple with clean lines and nice detail, but not overwhelming detail. As usual, there were things about each one that I liked but no single fireplace was "the one". So, in true Wedded Cottage fashion, I took the things I liked about each one and wedded them in to one, beautiful, custom-made mantle with a seating area.  (Thanks for the great idea, Mom!)

Here are some photos of the project (Disclaimer: I refuse to wear make up, matching clothes or contacts, when I am DIYing)

The Original Fireplace. 

It's looking like a real fireplace - almost!

The final photo is coming!  I'm working on mantle decor.  It's harder than you think with a TV above the fireplace!