An off-center fireplace can be a challenge for even the most savvy home decorators.

There is hope for making an off-center fireplace work in your room.

Take a look at these DIY tips to help you get some decorating ideas.

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Mount the TV over the mantel for easy viewing and establishing a warm cozy area to relax.

A sectional sofa and a couple of small chairs are a good choice.

Visually Extend the Fireplace Wall

Decorate with neutral colored accessories and a natural wood mantel.

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Using the same colors and neutral accessories keeps the theme consistent and extends the monochromatic visual across the fireplace.

Mirrors are a good choice to use as well as large candlesticks and vases.

Symmetry can create an orderly look that can make the off-center unit look more inviting.

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Another way to balance the off-center fireplace is to add identical bookshelves on both sides.

Choose a size of the shelves to fit your room size larger rooms need larger shelves.

Use open shelves for a smaller space and larger custom built-ins if your space is large.

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Hanging a large painting can add a pop of color and add interest to the space.

Another idea is to install a longer mantel that extends across the entire length of the fireplace.

If your fireplace has a built-in log holder, use it to your advantage.

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Fill the space with real wood to create an interesting visual.

Then place a decorative tool set and baskets filled with pine cones or fire-starter wood near the opening.

Another idea is to place a desk along the back of the sofa and create an office area.

Lay down a drop cloth in front of the fireplace to protectwood floorsor carpeting.

Sweep out the firebox and use a dustpan to dispose of any debris left over from previous fires.

Use a small brush broom to sweep off the brick to remove any loose mortar.

Next, fill a bucket with soapy water.

Use a scrub brush to clean the brick.

Dont worry about any stains that wont come off easily since the paint will cover them.

Rinse the area and let it dry.

If the paint is flat, you could paint right over the painted surface.

If theres oil-based or semi-gloss paint, youll need to lightly sand to rough up the surface before painting.

Note: **You will not be able to whitewash your fireplace if its been previously painted.

But you will be able to paint a solid color or use the Brick-Anew paint system.

Light gray, tan, or a creamy shade of white are good choices to make yourroom lightand bright.

Use a brush to apply thelatex paint.

Brick-Anew Paint Kit

Brick-Anewis a fireplace remodeling system that gives the look of real brick.

you might choose from 3 color choices.

Each color comes with several shades of paint that when applied together mimics the look of real brick.

A tool kit comes with the paint so you have all the materials you need for your project.

Then paint your wall a light complementary color.

Whitewashing

Whitewashing involves taking a light colored latex paint and mixing with water in a 50:50 ratio.

The most common color of choice for this technique is using a shade of white.

Use a brush to apply the thin, watery mixture over all your brick.

Take an old rag and use it to wipe off excess paint until you get the look you want.

you’re free to always add more paint and wipe off again to get a different look.

FAQs

How do you arrange furniture when a fireplace is not centered?

This is a common problem.

When designing with an off-center fireplace, furniture placement is key to creating the illusion of symmetry.

Center furniture over the fireplace and add asymmetrical pieces.

A symmetrically arranged set-up.

The fireplace becomes the true focal point and the symmetry of the room is balanced and attractive.

Does furniture have to be centered around fireplace?

This gives the focal point of interest off center, which adds interest and depth to your room design.

Should a fireplace be in the Centre of a room?

The focal point of a room is where all the other furniture and decor should lead your eye.

What do I do if my fireplace is off center?

You could turn it into a decorative element by placing an accent table on either side.