Summer Fireplace Makeovers

The fireplace tends to be overlooked in the sultry summer months, at least mine use to be.  During the cold autumn and winter months it is filled with glowing embers, crackling logs, and promises of cozy evenings.  In the summer, however, my fireplace tended to look and feel like a big, black empty hole.  This spring, when I cleaned out the ashes and washed down the fireplace, I decided to bring joy to the could-be black, empty hole of a summer fireplace.

Having leftover wood from last winter, I decided to put some in the fireplace and then draped them with globe lights. In the evenings, it adds coziness and provides an unexpected focal point.  I've also placed several plants near the fireplace to bring in some green into the space (and because I am up to my ears in houseplants).

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A collection of tall and beautiful vases brings a touch of elegance to anyone's fireplace. Here tall and slender shapes bring interest to the small, square frames, vases on the mantel, and side table. A great way to show off some flowers from your garden - just be careful of kids and pets.

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This is my favorite fireplace decoration.  You know all about my love of sticks (you can read a little about it here or here) and this is a great way to add texture, nature, and warm color to a room.  I've also seen birch branches used which is also beautiful.

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Candles are a traditional way to bring light and warmth to a cold fireplace. Interest is added when you bring in varying heights of candles and many people use candelabras.  In a sense, candles allows fire to be burned all year long and gives those with non-working fireplaces a way to enjoy the warmth and firelight.

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Greenery and plants are a great way to summer-ize a fireplace. I like the juxtaposition of a winter-loving fireplace playing home to summer plants. Don't forget to add varying heights with the incorporation of some small stools or plant stands.

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I love this fireplace stuffed full of blooms...I'm picturing baby's breath or hydrangeas. Notice that it provides a little interest but allows the mantle to really shine. 

What have you done to summer-ize your fireplaces?