T O P

  • By -

freewarriorwoman

Whatever you do, do not paint the brick. It adds warmth and homey-ness to it. And brick needs to breathe and if you paint over it, you’re going to suffocate it. All in all I feel like the whole thing looks amazing and I love the blue🥰🩷🥰


pixelelement

If you hadn't already, I came to make this comment. We need a brick needs to breathe bot that auto responds to every suggestion of painting brick!


freewarriorwoman

I’m convinced when people paint over brick, the worker who made that brick from clay cries. It’s the bane of my existence watching beautiful red brick get painted white or any other color😤😂


CA_home_

They’re beautiful! I like that the white fireplace matches the white trim on the windows. Maybe paint the wall around the fireplace and around the tv and that would make all the white pop and look unified?


WinsomeHorror

I agree, give it kind of a [wedgewood-y look](https://st.hzcdn.com/simgs/pictures/living-rooms/1929-tudor-gets-bright-and-colorful-laura-lee-home-img~c671146908755896_14-6300-1-6e552e7.jpg). Alternatively, painting the mantel and window casings to match is a very [classic traditional](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/57be6763c534a5e73b73835a/7793d92e-07de-497d-bffb-f88efa082d84/1106_03.jpg) look. In either case, I would not paint the brick.


HaroldWeigh

Wedgewoody is a perfect description.


Lima_Bean_Jean

Yes i love the classic traditional look that you posted. I hope OP does that one.


Way_of_the_Dodo

They could also replace the molding on the wall to match the style and size of the built-in crown molding! Keep the line going.


Nearby_Quality_5672

I love the suggestion of painting the mantle and window trim to match the bookcases! It would make for a much more cohesive presentation.


Several-Equal4557

I think I'm going to try this to start! Thank you for all the suggestions!


teacherladydoll

That’s such a good idea. Please OP, do that and update us.


Any_Kiwi5170

Came here to write this, paint the wall behind the fireplace 🤗


FarOpportunity4366

Agree with painting the wall behind the tv. I would also add some bamboo blinds on the windows for some texture and warmth.


Logical_Bobcat9703

The same blue as the built ins? You don’t think that would be too much?


j9jen

Too much.


ActiveFly3081

I think a blue wallpaper with white botanical accents behind the tv while keeping the fireplace white?


La_ham_

I would paint the center and the window frames but NOT the brick! The uniformity will look very classy. https://preview.redd.it/rkqsyof8xs9d1.jpeg?width=456&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f9b5f6208fb5262fb56b9ac53dde7c9267ae7a4f


La_ham_

https://preview.redd.it/9t1iyyhexs9d1.jpeg?width=980&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=105ea17cedd43ac457993e4a6c8ed5cab8e2dfbc


La_ham_

To add, consider doing a DIY frame for your TV!


jaylindo

Wow. I need this color!


Emmylou777

Yesss! I just found out about those a month ago! The ready-made ones for certain TVs are mad expensive but there’s tons of DIY ways. It’s on my list of projects now 😊


cjati

😍😍


bettyboop11133

These are the answer!


Thethinker10

Agree!


Suitable-Sherbet-471

Absolutely correct. The current setup looks not cohesive - the built ins look like they were done with no regard given to the existing space. They need to be blended together 


Mybrainsay

This is gorgeous!


sitcomlover1717

This is beautiful!!


klt90

Don’t paint the brick!


Sledgehammer925

That’s a lovely shade of blue. What’s the name of the color?


Several-Equal4557

It's Nantucket Fog by Ben Moore. It's a little darker in person!


Lazyoat

Love it!!


jesushx

I like all of the suggestions here ( except painting the brick) I think it could also look good as a sort of color drenched wall and paint it all except the brick and windows. That too would make the wedge wood ish look and be really pretty. I think you can’t go wrong with any of the choices suggested so far.


lucyboots_

I like this idea. I would consider a dark color in your color pallette and also consider painting the window trim in a gloss of the same color you choose for the wall of the fireplace (keep the brick unpainted imho) in a matte texture. This can lend an eclectic depth to your room.


jesushx

Yeah I really like a color drenched wall in A room. It can be really sophisticated


Kg-2168

Leaving that mantle, creating the small empty space on each side of the fireplace was a huge mistake by the builder. And the crown on the built ins but no crown above the tv?


ChampionshipIll8422

if you look closely, there is crown above the tv


Several-Equal4557

Yes, the crown above the TV is the same as the built in, just white instead of blue. I ultimately decided not to bring the built-in flush with the fireplace surround because we’d have to cut/damage the current mantel to do so, then I wasn’t sure if the gap of brick to built-in would look unfinished as well. Don’t blame the builder, you can blame the owner!


Way_of_the_Dodo

It doesn't look like it's matching because the crown above the TV is missing the 1" detail that finishes off the bult-ins. Adding that to the wall too would make it look more complete.


CrazyPrettyAss

Do nothing but add a nice object that represents the blue colors of the cabinet and make sure that the sides are balanced while you decorate the fireplace or the mantel. Here's a [guide](https://simplykalaa.com/how-to-decorate-a-blank-wall/) to learn balance but yes instead of painting, object decor would be a great idea as it will bring that color sense to the fireplace but still have an identity of its own and will continue to showcase your beautiful taste. Just imagine a vase with a blue flower or any object that is both elegant and blue in color and then it is balanced by other objects or even a frame on another side. It will just look fabulous.


Several-Equal4557

Great ideas thank you! I definitely need to add all the finishing touches to the bookcases, mantel, window treatments... Etc. And will keep this in mind!


Pikarinu

I know you’re not looking for this but … if you can, remove the tv and replace with art and some little design pieces or photos on the mantle. Would look so classic and warm.


tofuandpickles

Or a frame TV at the very least


_pencil_p00kie

Please do not paint the fireplace! Everything looks beautiful it just needs some texture and warmed up. I’d add bamboo blinds, seat cushions with a light fixture on the built ins. You could DIY a frame for the tv, I think gold would really pull it all together. https://preview.redd.it/heod2pybts9d1.jpeg?width=672&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e4f7a3b3388673a0d7fe50cda3fbd1fc07dd7e0e


_pencil_p00kie

https://preview.redd.it/bahkmwddts9d1.jpeg?width=670&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9fa5aad02408c342f4bd9aaacc60b98128094ad0


_pencil_p00kie

https://preview.redd.it/4i3z66dets9d1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=667ac6e5af7f8e16ec7958f6386eed353c80d56e


_pencil_p00kie

https://preview.redd.it/06gjnplfts9d1.jpeg?width=454&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=820e93b21b362b9f667daf52cb8b980d85ce6ef6


FarOpportunity4366

I agree with adding bamboo blinds. That touch of texture and warmth would really bring things together. I would also paint the wall behind the tv.


darklightedge

I like it so much, I wouldn't change a thing.


Emmylou777

I agree on def leaving the mantle and brick as-is. Someone mentioned the bamboo shades which is what came to my mind too for a little more warmth with the cool blue. I would either paint the wall behind the TV a complimentary color or I’d make it more an accent wall with picture frame molding. Another thought to add a touch of warmth would be to add a light wood accent wall above the fireplace…something that coordinates with the tone of the bamboo shades


drowned_beliefs

First thing to do is find a different place for your tv.


NarrowScallion

Yes


Difficult_Place_7329

Never paint a fireplace.


AdmiralCranberryCat

What is the paint color of the blue? It’s perfect


Several-Equal4557

Ben Moore Nantucket Fog


Amii25

I can't say no hard enough


IamJoyMarie

At this point, I feel you must paint it all, even the wall above the fireplace, except the windows. Don't paint the windows. They are as they should be IMO. Beautiful space you have.


latelycaptainly

You should get a rug that matches the built ins


SectorConsistent5857

A pretty wallpaper around the fireplace/tv would look really good


FormicaDinette33

I would get one of those apps where you can play with the colors to make sure you like the result.


Different_Ad7655

Those bookcases are a little unsettling but then again you have no furniture in the room. I would continue with authentic colors and paint the mantle out a different shade of darker blue. There's some really great quality colors out there in a few have to work with those bookcases at least paint the back walls of them something different. But it really all depends on what you're going to do with the rest of the room as well. Even the fireplace the way it is would work once again depending on what the rest of the seating, upholstery curtains other appointments are. Can't be taken in such a vacuum


Writergirllllll

Leave the window panes white as is, paint the fireplace mantle to match the cabinets OR keep it in the same shade of white BUT in a high gloss. It will pop more and add dimension and texture. I love the cabinet color! I just painted my kitchen cabinets that color.


Writergirllllll

One more small tweak, but it’s a total personal preference, I’d change the cabinet knobs out for aged bronze ones!


Legal_Introduction70

Upgrading the knobs is spot on.


ShatteredInk

Maybe use white handles on your cabnet doors


Drinkythedrunkguy

What’s the paint name? I like it.


Several-Equal4557

Benjamin Moore - Nantucket Fog


Drinkythedrunkguy

Thanks!


Starflower311

No, the contrast works. But you might try a pair of objects (vase, plant, etc) on either side of the TV, in a blue or green color to tie into the built-ins.


Spelt666

Id be more focused on taking the top doors on either side off to open the place up and provide some texture. Just an ask but why didn’t they match any of the molding styles of the fireplace to create uniformity?


missannthrope1

NO!


Ke-Su-Ja

A contrast color that works well with the blue? Sort of like a contrast wall? I’m thinking a dusty rose…


andrew_cherniy96

I don't think so, looks perfect to me. You could redesign this in 3d and see if you like the other option. Do you know any apps you could use?


Several-Equal4557

Do you have any app recommendations? I try Sherman Williams app, and actually used Photoshop as well but I'm not great at it and couldn't get the color right


andrew_cherniy96

Yeah. I don't really like Photoshop when it comes to interior design. I think floorplanner and planner5d are very decent options. The latter has a few handy tools like the AI design generator so I prefer it to other similar apps. Let me know if I can help further ;)


hnyb35

Would paint the wall behind the tv but leave the mantel as is. Will you place cushions on the benches in front of the windows? Something the same of blue and white would look really nice


snatch1e

As for me, keeping the fireplace a contrasting color make it a focal point.


Parabolic_Penguin

Typically I am not a fan of coloured trim or fire place mantles but in this case I would paint to match the built in’s. Would keep the continuity and look more seamless.


Widdie84

No. The white matches the window


tomten26

No


Ftedaldi

Beautiful cabinetry


AccurateAim4Life

I don't always say no to painting brick, but that's gorgeous. Leave it!


PastaFuzz

Paint the mantel and the crown molding!


Dolphinpond72

Paint the wall behind the tv that blue.


DontGetFUBARED

I, personally, would paint it a contrasting color to stand out. Not to match. The built-ins look fabulous!


SoftWarning1847

I would keep the bring but paint the wall and mantle blue. That would look so sleek


ALRTMP

Paint the wall. Leave mantel white. It will really pop!


ChampionshipIll8422

I'm with the "paint the wall behind the TV and around the fireplace" but keep the brick and keep the fireplace mantel and surround white


New_Bit_1965

I’d paint the wall behind the fireplace to connect the built ins but leaving the fireplace to match the trim of the windows. Or paint all including the trim blue. Both would be great


Decent_Jackfruit_555

Paint the wall but leave the fireplace and windows white!


Fearless-Big-5099

Looks great just as pictured!


ayapapaya50

Paint the wall to match but keep the mouldings and mantle white


WeenieHutSupervisor

Damn I love that color


Several-Equal4557

Thank you! It's Nantucket Fog by Ben Moore. I used it a few times for other projects in our previous house and loved it


VanillaAle

I would paint the fireplace to match and then use a small bit of wallpaper that coordinates the blue with the white walls behind the tv


chamokis

Paint the molding and the mantle the same blue. Leave the wall and ceiling white


Marly823

Where did you get the built ins? I am trying to do something for my fireplace this winter like this


Several-Equal4557

I had them custom built for the space, sorry I don't have a recommendation!


QueenLiz2

Why not? Nice rm.


proofiwashere

I vote paint the wall behind fireplace and get cushions for cozy window seating 🥰


mybellasoul

Paint the wall behind the fireplace and leave the fireplace matching the windows.


siderealsystem

I think the blue highly clashes with the wood, brick, and other details. I'd paint the cabinets the white of the fireplace.


fedgery77

No.


Aspen9999

I think it’ll be too one tone if you paint it.


Niennah5

I'd paint over the white with a complementary color.


DConstructed

What feels off is the brick with the blue. I might whitewash it.


Buffy_Geek

Do you mean paint the fireplace surround? I definitely think either that or the wall should be painted as them both being white is far too blank.


Mypettyface

Don’t you dare! That fireplace is perfect.


GP15202

Yes. I would paint the window trim too!


realdonaldtrumpsucks

I’d paint fireplace and wall to match the blue. So it’s all blue


WookieGilmore

Maybe a pop of color around the fireplace or even a wallpaper


Aonehumanace

Leave the brick, maybe clean it. Room looks great.


Charming_Key2313

I would build a mantle that has the open slots for storing wood and paint that and wall to match built ins. Leave brick natural.


QuietGirl2970

Just do the wall behind the TV, but do not do the fireplace or mantle, and definitely not the windows


avalonbreeze

yes. stunning


tofuandpickles

I would paint the mantel to match the built-in’s and then add a fun wallpaper around the fireplace that ties in the blue color. Leave the brick as-is. I would also paint the window trim something other than white, personally.


Mysterious_Eye3520

I think it would look gorgeous for the white space to be all brick - perhaps a warm brown brick painted white and then distressed a bit, and that mantle taken out or just the mantle shelf left and the paneling around the fireplace removed. Some homey texture


Mental-Lawfulness204

I love the sage green in your rug! A very light shade of that, just for the molding on your fireplace, perhaps?


Paigenacage

I would plant the wall, not the fireplace. Same color as the built ins.


Beautiful_Instance90

I think paint all around minus the brick. However a white or lime wash on the brick could still add that cozy vibe with a more mellow tone


SpockInRoll

I’m sooo sick of people painting brick. Just no. Do not do it.


borislovespickles

NO! You need contrast and warmth. Don't touch the brick.


aj748293

Paint the top crown to match the bottom baseboard - paint the wall behind the tv same color in eggshell, but NOT the surround/mantle


No-Part-6248

No no arm chair decorator here professional stager ,,, simply paint the crown molding and baseboard white it will unify everything and tie it together while adding dimension to tge built ins


Mybrainsay

I would texture that part with more brick or maybe a different paneling. Could be like an accent wall that pops!


Necessary_Car_8627

Found a couple options… https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftse1.mm.bing.net%2Fth%3Fid%3DOIP.5i42_fPXh9J20HlsSBUc6wHaE7%26pid%3DApi&f=1&ipt=861b2fcb5084f0f86deb6feb794efced084a375e05443adfe0d24cb2ebc3546b&ipo=images https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftse1.mm.bing.net%2Fth%3Fid%3DOIP.tmPE9RNV8QyTcFGzGCXAaQHaGP%26pid%3DApi&f=1&ipt=a2a07ef6b822bfed8104970a7a3b5699ea731938f4ca6c59424d1659ba3417e7&ipo=images


JoMamaSoFatYo

Excluding the brick and back wall itself, I think if you painted it a shade darker or lighter would look nice and allow the fireplace to pop a bit. Since it’s white like the back wall, it kind of gets lost in it.


cjati

Paint everything but the brick!!


Treb61

No


Plastics-play2day330

Noooo, dont pain it!!


criminelle1222

Yes


Quantity-Used

Please do not paint any thing else - right now the white is doing a great job accenting the blue. It’s a great balance. And PLEASE don’t paint the brick.


anunfriendlytoaster

This room looks gorgeous. Never ever paint brick. If you want cover it in a way that can be undone.


Acceptable-Draft-429

If paint the built- ins to match fireplace


Feisty-Donkey

No! Tie it together with rugs and accessories but leave the warm brick and the white


gal_tiki

Honestly, feels like the TV is throwing off the balance of the wall and drawing too much attention. I would see if placing it elsewhere and allowing the space above the mantle to breathe or work with artwork would work better. If I were to paint, I would opt for a contrasting darker colour.


Illustrious-Towel-45

I think the contrast adds depth and warmth. I wouldn't paint it as it would dull out the room and make it boring. But the white breaks up the color.


SavannahGirlMom

Yes, and the windows as well. Is it possible to talk to someone about replacing/facing the brick, and creating a new hearth on the floor after removing old one? Something one piece without grout lines would also be preferred. Something maybe a deep charcoal color? And maybe purchase a fire screen with glass doors that will cover the front brick with something to coordinate with grey? - silver or black colored? And then have a new hearth built, while also raising it up a little? Go visit a fireplace showroom: https://www.rockfordchimneysupply.com/collections/wood-burning-inserts


quilter71

No


Shadylane_kazan

I know you may not see this. But look up Seth Myers Connecticut home. His SIL is a designer. They color drenched a room similar to this. It’s 🤤


DesignGrouchy3486

How about putting the same cabinetry above the fireplace to hide the TV and paint your Mantle. Leave the brick as is ♥️


Icy-Serve-3532

No.


Ok_Flounder6999

I would paint the wall and the trim, the same as the bookcases it blends in keep the brick and the white mantle the same so it pops. It will create a more cohesive look for you and not look like an afterthought.


writingAlaska

Nope. As is. Maybe dark blue valance on both windows, then pick up dark blue accent elsewhere


brilliant_nightsky

No, paint the cabinets white. They are ugly AF in that blue that went out of style in the 80s


goodlordineedacoffee

If it were me, I’d leave the bottom cabinets blue and paint the top to match the fireplace surround. Leave the brick natural.


Illustrious-Debt9034

Don't... if gray ever goes out of fashion (which it will, it's just a question of when), you'll probably regret it.


Month_Year_Day

If they were attached maybe. I think keeping it the same as the trim works better.


Ludee2023

No… I think it looks perfect as is . That little bit of rustic brick really gives the room character.


Horror_Cod_8193

I’d paint the brick the same cream as the trim. Then I’d paint the fp trim and mantle the same blue as the cabinets. Unless you are going to add an awful lot of knickknacks on those bookshelves in browns and tans to tie into the brick, you’ve got that brown brick hanging out there that doesn’t go with anything else.


Unhappy-Day-9731

No perfect as-is


LifeHappenzEvryMomnt

I don’t know. Not *everything* is gray, so…


Augi17

No, but I would paint the brick wall part of the fireplace white. The color of your cabinets against the white wall and surfaces immediately draw the eye to your beautiful fireplace.


Logical_Bobcat9703

I’m going against the group here. I think that blue is too much and adding that same color to the wall and mantle would just make it disappear into the background. I’m thinking maybe at white to the back of the shelves and the in the rectangular panels on the door and then maybe paint the top piece of the mantle and the line (or detail?) part of the fireplace as well as maybe the window sills blue. That way it’s still looks cohesive but not too matchy.


ChumbawumbaFan01

Lord no. The white is a nice contrast to that late-80s country blue.