At a friend’s house over the holidays, I noticed that they had decorated the inside of their non working fireplace with beautiful logs wrapped in white Christmas lights. In lieu of a fire, the string of lights provided a beautiful glow in the room! Whether you have a non working fireplace or a working one that you’re not currently using, you can make use of the space with these creative and decorative ideas for non working fireplaces.

1. Candles
Candles are an instant way to add the flicker or a flame.

2. Logs
Or you could fill the opening with decorative logs, either natural or painted.


3. Shadow Box
The firebox can also be used as a giant shadow box to highlight your favorite items in a large-scale vignette.


4. Bookcase
If you add a few shelves, you can make it a unique bookcase.

5. Canvas
Close it up and paint it with chalkboard paint and you’ll have an instant canvas to showcase your creativity!


6. Seasonal
You can always rotate out the decor and dress it up seasonally!


7. Collections
You can also use it to showcase your collections.


8. Pet Bed
Looking for a cozy spot for your pet! Try turning your fireplace into a pet bed.

9. Planter
A plant {or even several} can add some color and organic texture to an otherwise sterile space.

10. Wood
And when all else fails, just add a few logs and no one will know the difference…

Which of these ideas for non working fireplaces would you be willing to try in your home?

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I love the first one pictured as I have a corner in my dining room that I have never known quite what to do with. I live in the desert and do not have a fireplace. Frankly, people who do, only use them once in a blue moon. I would love to know how to get something like the first one, A little less ornate, but I love it! My house is shabby chic! Thanks!
Stunning & phenomenal article. Just brilliant & lovely. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful article. Keep this up.
I absolutely love the fire wood stacked within the hearth! Great feature!
xo. Leslie
Segreto Finishes
Kim,
What original ideas for a fireplace opening. We have a fireplace and I love it. We burn real wood and during the winter months I use it nearly nightly. Still, I have a very good friend that has a fireplace that cannot draw properly. The candle idea is wonderful and just as warm and glowing as a fire. I also like the idea of the twinkle light lit logs.
xo,
Karen
I absolutely adore the idea of setting up candles in the fireplace, looks so romantic and elegant. I found the doggy bed idea cute as well, I just hope the vent was closed off so the dog stays warm. :) Thank you for sharing!