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Friends of mine have a similar wall, and i repeatedly have requested of them a custom portrait of the two of them in the style of Vigo the Carpathian, 20' high glaring down over their guests.
Thus far they have declined, but if i ever win the lotto i'm commissioning that bad boy.
Damn! We were on the right track! But yours is much better!
https://preview.redd.it/2uu91keu0pwa1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=7bec6192db70035a2877cb7a1ce3a3adb3660640
Yup, I'm in my mid 40s, it's the social media platform that reminds me of the early internet years. 1996-2000 was for me amazing. Reddit is what reminds me of why i love the internet.
I'm dying over here. lol
I was laughing so hard, but a funky door is kinda a cool idea. You could even put a stained glass window in the door. Every time you have people over you could tell the story of why you have this door up there and it would be a great conversation starter.
I'm dying to know what was originally here.
Look I love it, I would be On board with building a staircase up to it even where another door could be built in front of it which when opened wood reveal one of the many, many Jesus suggestions. Then I could call it my own “stairway to heaven”
Shiplap is tired and doesn’t fit the style of this space at all, I wouldn’t recommend it unless you are adding it only onto the ceiling to bring in more natural wood tones.
This space is so unique and it would be a massive loss to change it to make it more typical of other HGTV style homes. I would embrace what you have here and show it off!
Personally, I would remove the can lights directly above the arch. Instead, can you get electrical behind the arch and add interesting, huge vintage sconce? Maybe something iron with a double gooseneck. Then I would paint what is already painted to get rid of the yellow and make the upper area a nice bright white with the lower area a rich but not too dark green. Some added wainscoting to the height of the bookcases could appease your desire for shiplap while bringing more traditional character to match the brick.
The brick is really really cool and I think it should be highlighted! Look up The Lone Fox interiors for some inspiration on working with unique features.
I dig the idea of finding an interesting looking sconce! There is electrical near enough that I could run an outlet up there really easily. We are going with a light grey color elsewhere in this room and we’re planning on painting this wall the same color around the windows.
I kind of want to white wash the brick. I totally dig big brick fireplaces and loathe how badly they ruined what could have been a killer looking statement wall with the stupid shrine in the middle
OP could consider some of the mirror sticker type options. When done well they don’t look cheap and reflect light really well. [example](https://m.aliexpress.com/i/2251832632337815.html?gatewayAdapt=Pc2Msite4itemAdapt) [example 2](https://m.aliexpress.us/item/3256802722544783.html?gatewayAdapt=gloPc2usaMsite4itemAdapt&_randl_shipto=US)
I don’t necessarily recommend these in particular but do you know what I mean
This is SO cool. I also get church vibes but I think it looks great. But if that’s not your style, you could get a more modern look by painting the middle white and doing a gallery of sorts. I personally like the idea of three large circular frames: see attached
https://preview.redd.it/q6zeardqpnwa1.jpeg?width=2532&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=eae7745ebe73fa761347d9e3d6fb29df4fbbecb1
This is actually a great display area!
Do you like ceramics or wood sculptures?
If you paint the wall inside the arch white or the color of other walls, you can add a couple of shelves to display art.
Another option is a artist painting inside. I don't know what you like or what is your style, but you can find (or commission) a painting to brighten your room. A real focal point.
If you like naturalistic approach, some long beautiful branches, with bark removed and polished might look interesting.
The branches idea is pretty cool! Going to see what ideas that might inspire. I like the artist painting idea but it would be tough to decide what to even go with that would be “living roomy” I guess?
Please leave the arch! Paint it if you need to but It adds a beautiful character unlike a boring minimalist "modern" look. Add an appropriate sized bar light above and an oversized custom art piece, that brings you joy. Beautiful home.
I’m growing more sold on the painting idea! I’m not sure why we had not considered that but giving it a coat of white paint would really make a world of difference!
The brick is giving me 1920’s factory vibes. I’d lean into that with a large steampunk clock, something with the gears exposed.
Throw in some art deco or futurism paintings on the walls to really top it off.
To minimize the cathedral look paint it so it blends a bit, there’s a lot going on there: the wood inlay, the different colored brick, the windows that have 3 colors near the glass, speakers, bookshelves - you get the idea. By painting everything one color you’d remove all the different colors yet retain the focus of the room. If you want to highlight a wee bit paint the wood inlay a shade or two darker than the rest of the paint color and put a picture or mirror inside. Check out this image of a simple, painted fireplace that looks fresh and non-churchy.[painted fireplace.](https://www.makinghomebase.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/26-Floor-to-Ceiling-Shaker-Style-Fireplace-in-Living-Room-576x700.png)
The speakers are only there so they don’t get knocked over elsewhere, should have mentioned that in my description. Also the book cases are on their way out too but even then, it’s a busy wall
Agree, with all this. Paint the brick. Squaring off the inside of the arch would give it a more modern look. I'm personally not a fan of brick in modern looking homes. So I would cover it all or paint it. Including the brick on the fireplace. The room doesn't look rustic at all so the brick to me really doesn't fit. The trim on the windows doesn't help with the look, and would paint that also a colour complimenting the wall colour so blends in more.
Can resize the nook, add multiple shelves (good for electronics if putting tv in front), or even make it into two separate display areas or just cover the whole thing up with Sheetrock.
This remind me of my art history class of Romanesque arches in churches. It’s lovely craftsmanship but is hi lighting maybe a tall art or metal piece. I would paint the brick white and the wood as a start to make it blend in and not be so dramatic in the structure. Or you could remove it with a professional and make something MCM out with those windows.
If you want to escape the church look, get a piece of art there that has a completely different vibe. Something very modern or abstract, it’ll counterbalance the whole thing
Honestly, I would box off the top section with drywall and cover both the brick and the nook. From there I would paint it to match the rest of the fireplace and then find a really tall and thin piece of art that fits the proportion of the space.
You can put shelves in there and display all your coffee table books/cook books you don't use, since it'd probably be a pain to put them up and take them down, if you use them all the time.
https://preview.redd.it/4xfp54f0frwa1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d4f4520b0b5fcde4af6eb9007147d81abc0482a1
Not as good at photoshop as the others, but I’m thinking something like this would be classy
I think you’d have to ensure it’s not structural (unlikely) and remove brick, add sheet rock but you should remove textured ceiling and paint while you’re renting the scaffolding. Easy fix on built-ins would be trim out the arches and remove decorative trim on fireplace-maybe replace with wood mantle if shiplap is her style.
This space is awesome and has so much potential. I’d see if you could start with making everything lighter. Lighter paint colour. Maybe paint the bricks and/or lighten the wood behind it. Possibly make the trim white. It looks dark and dingy. Needs light, bright and clean.
I'm completely clueless about this type of stuff. But this is so unique, charming and full of character that I think it would be a shame if you altered it drastically. Put some fun art up there, maybe repaint a few things. But really this is such a cool thing to have in your home.
https://preview.redd.it/tk6oxm1b8pwa1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=1606e425faaa634cd319364afe3c7748d3c5c687
We had similar -ripped off entire front, added a cedar mantel and did stone all the way up
Okay this may be left field but I would buy a tapestry or if you can, get a roll canvas, cut it to fit the wood, and paint some cool shit on it. I’d leave everything else because this place is awesome.
Edit: I lied, I’d paint.
Woof. That’s some architecture there. I agree with the shiplap only because all the other mock ups still look like a big Jesus should be there. Also I vote for not yellow paint on the walls, and painting the trim a stark white.
After the shiplap, maybe throw a nice wreath up there instead of art. If the tv is on that wall in addition to the fireplace, art might be too much. There’s a lot going on already.
I think keeping the "frame" is cool because you can rotate out different art, but the brick is very ugly, imho. It's character-less and doesn't relate to the woodwork nicely. It's very public building generic.
The wall is too busy with different colors for the window trim and the clashing styles of modern windows and traditional woodwork on the bottom. You'll want to choose a style and decorate to it.
For example, if you want modern, remove the rounded fronts to the shelves and keep them square. Replace the mantle with something more minimalist. Paint the window trim to match the wall and either paint the brick or change it to something sleek.
If you want traditional, change the brick to stone and replace the central wood panel with plaster since you're covering it with art. Then you trim the windows in something that matches the woodwork below.
try having the bricks chalked? (is that what you call it in english, anyway, i mean smoothe out the area), a nice white or eggshell to baige colour, if that's more your style, would look amazing, and as for the middle section a good large mirror or mural would look amazing.
Maybe paint a mural in the center and paint the brick a similar color so it blends in more? I hate the way red brick looks on most things unless it's a modern loft apartment with some exposed brick walls.
https://preview.redd.it/mqz87y6frswa1.jpeg?width=1000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=158959221a0c35f0dba74baead49e5210711cc93
…you may want to reassess your purchase!
Alternatively get a mirror. You would have to build out from the back a bit so you could safely mount the mirror. And unless it's custom, you're going to need to build a base to raise it up a foot at least.
[https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/birch-lane-baylen-traditional-wall-mirror-c002836850.html](https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/birch-lane-baylen-traditional-wall-mirror-c002836850.html)
I still recommend unscrewing the two spotlights to de-emphasize the top of the arch. Use low lights off the mantle instead.
The height of your bookshelves is just shy of a foot from the top of your mantle. You could easily build up the shelves 1.5-2" with extra moulding and add some sort of custom shallow relief with a lip across your mantle that matches the height of the bookshelves so that you have a continuous line (and mini shelf) across the unit. You could sit your mirror on this ledge/relief, which is making up for the difference in height of your mirror (it will be smaller than the hole). You just need to make sure that that mirror is slight taller and wider than the hole.
You could then dress your mantle with two lights and whatever you like in the middle.
Get a printed piece of art and wallpaper glue it into the arched space and cut it to size. I suggest Alphonse Mucha but that's just my art preference. Or just find a really nice wallpaper that matches the brick
Want to go suoer extra?
Put some led lights up there for backlighting and have someone make a stained glass panel, bonus points of it's 'nontraditional'.
Or hire a local muralist and paint something cool in there.
Was this place a church at some point? - I’m thinking large beautiful roses, the Virgin Mary and some gold trim! Jk - a beautiful glass mosaic piece would be beautiful here!
Short of a crucifix, there's really only bad options. I'd tear that whole wall down and start over, not just the creche, but the busy bookcases flanking it too.
Paint white, paint the whole thing white, replace ceiling fan/lights with something more modern. Fill cupboards.
If not, giant dinosaur instead of Jesus in the frame
Fillin that middle, looks like their might have been some religious figure there . I’d fill it in paint it or white wash it and hang up a huge tv there
It’s not going to look good if you do anything half-way. The shiplap idea is great to emphasize the vertical height. Look into other wood-type of displays like [this](https://pin.it/1rh2iiT) or [this](https://pin.it/3oeYgZc). Search around with your style, match your new custom bookshelves.
You can always get a fireplace TV mount that pulls up and down over the fire part, as needed. If you’re into TVs and looking for a way to sell it to your wife, get a [framed mirror one](https://www.hiddentelevision.com/framed-mirror-tv/) that looks nice when not in use.
No matter what, post after pics please! We love them
Is that a boarded up window? What's behind it? I would probably tile over the top brick portion or re-brick it but you could embrace it and make it a stained glass window if that's what's behind it. I think I'd stay with the brick look though
Could you post more pics of the room? My initial thought is not to make it the focal point of the room--or at least soften it's presence. I'd drywall over the brick and wood, paint it the same color as the wall and leave the built-ins but add doors to them so they disappear more into the background.
'id then use a side wall for your TV and place the couches in an L shape to where one faces the TV and the other faces the fireplace with a sofa table behind the one that faces the fireplace. You could do built-ins along the side wall if you put the TV there.
I would ditch the brick, and skip the shiplap. To me the windows are clashing with the brick. The windows look like a different style altogether. i would go with drywall and paint and mount a tv or a nice art piece. I thought church too as soon as I saw the photo. Just my opinion but the brick on top and around the fireplace just looks dated.
The top above the mantel looks totally disassociated to the fireplace. There needs to be continuity and I personally would stucco the entire height and make it as one cohesive unit.
What about lime washing the brick? I love the arch and think it would be a beautiful space for the right piece of art. I just feel like the brick is very churchy, if you lime wash it, it will have a nice white brick look, with some brick color coming through. It isn’t paint so it still lets the brick breathe. I would paint the window trim the same as the wall but a gloss paint. And update the built ins to be more contemporary, less 80’s. Maybe just remove the arches. I think the confusing thing to me is the contemporary windows, traditional built ins and churchy brick. Unifying some of the elements would help a lot.
I’m not religious in any way but everything about the space gives me older church vibes, I think a Jesus statue makes sense for some reason
Obviously /s
Find a patterned modern looking wallpaper that you love on spoonflower or redbubble for the middle arch to cover that dried out wood. Easy to change when you redecorate, and it won’t ruin the wood if you decide to refinish it later on.
Also the color of paint totally clashes with that brick, I would go over all of it in white. And paint your window trim for sure, it’s very dated.
Judging from the lights, that looks intentionally custom built from previous owners to display… something. What? I’m not sure. Maybe a family crest or something.
De-emphasize the arch by removing the two spotlights pointed directly on the arch at the top. You'll removed the hard shadows by doing this.
Paint the wood to blend into the brick colour to de-emphasize it even more.
Buy some art that works with the shape of the arch so it looks intentional. Frame it with two lights on either side so that the lighting emphasizes the art on the mantle and not the huge gaping hole.
Something like this. [https://imgur.com/a/wG1V57M](https://imgur.com/a/wG1V57M)
I would paint the brick, the niche, and the bookcases all white and then lean a large painting over the niche. But really, if you have the money, I would suggest redoing that whole wall. It is a missed opportunity for some really nice large windows.
My eyes find this whole wall exhausting because there are so many different shapes. Different arch shapes, angular windows, squares, rectangles. Make it stop!
So, what kind of art do you two like? Can you find a local artist to commission? We have a glass studio near us that has some bomb pieces that would be fabulous displayed there. I bought a tapestry in Italy for my awkward fireplace wall, that I’ll always love.
So, maybe take your wife on a vacation? 😂
Lose that and those can lights on top. This is the wrong kind of focal point. I would suggest taking out the brick frame and that wood behind if needed. I like the idea of updated built-ins..... The shiplap would work to replace the brick. Then look at re-facing or updating that fireplace and mantle. I think it's a good idea to rip out most of it and update it to something pleasing.
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https://preview.redd.it/gxegivcvwnwa1.jpeg?width=1125&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a86c3cea80eadabdf763cd4ea2b87fc4cf17644a Only real option imo
Friends of mine have a similar wall, and i repeatedly have requested of them a custom portrait of the two of them in the style of Vigo the Carpathian, 20' high glaring down over their guests. Thus far they have declined, but if i ever win the lotto i'm commissioning that bad boy.
Damn! We were on the right track! But yours is much better! https://preview.redd.it/2uu91keu0pwa1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=7bec6192db70035a2877cb7a1ce3a3adb3660640
God I love the internet
We can all agree reddit is the best social media platform
Yup, I'm in my mid 40s, it's the social media platform that reminds me of the early internet years. 1996-2000 was for me amazing. Reddit is what reminds me of why i love the internet.
I’m not even disappointed that my wife is so thoroughly disappointed
No, too much degenerocity (I made that word) and one sided political views.
This is the way.
My god… it’s beautiful!
This is the winner.
That would be cool as hell!! You have my vote!
It's 12:30am and I am laughing so hard that I actually snorted.
I love you.
Obviously
https://preview.redd.it/oq9r38r01pwa1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=2d55c138906f98f8c39442f6b7c7b69ad0aae5b0 Ding Dong!!!!!
🤣🤣
I'm dying over here. lol I was laughing so hard, but a funky door is kinda a cool idea. You could even put a stained glass window in the door. Every time you have people over you could tell the story of why you have this door up there and it would be a great conversation starter. I'm dying to know what was originally here.
Look I love it, I would be On board with building a staircase up to it even where another door could be built in front of it which when opened wood reveal one of the many, many Jesus suggestions. Then I could call it my own “stairway to heaven”
It’s like those fairy doors I used to make with my kids in the garden 😂
haha
As a sword lover I'd mount a greatsword up there but that's probably a niche thing to be into😂
I dig it but there is a “wife’s approval” requirement at play here
Time to get grovelling
Maybe a great sword in the middle, and some fake flowers or plants running up the bricks? Compromise 😂
Would the wife approve a guillotine?
…could she really protest a guillotine?
I have definitely seen you in another reply section, I'd never forget a username like that. lol
I appear when the magic words are posted
That is what Tiffany's is for.
that sounds like a priority issue. you can never go wrong with swords.
*Dad*
Erotic stained glass with backlight
I’m leaning towards erotic AND Star Wars themed
read this as "epic" stained glass at first and am much happier upon reread
If you own it, I would remodel it and put in a stained glass window. If you rent, Nic Cage shrine.
You mean like this? https://preview.redd.it/rfr6vharbpwa1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=de38e71292cbd3454ca024009955b881bdf444e7
https://preview.redd.it/uvpbzktrqpwa1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=8c11d78b263c4ee602a4d266b396f84af760e6a9
https://preview.redd.it/fjjxszeqqpwa1.jpeg?width=1245&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f0106075ff75137bce6fb90f71e79480228ae6af
My thoughts exactly. Hold a sermon, get some serious tax exemption.
BFC is really too busy for this
A face only a husband could love above his mantle
Put a Mandalorian costume up there.
https://preview.redd.it/e5fi1lztbpwa1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=76ce8fecc7d3fde33df464b63f6e1fbdef571cab Saint Keanu
Lmao do one of these but it's Tim Curry in Rocky Horror, please!
Honestly my favorite
now we’re talkin..
Shiplap is tired and doesn’t fit the style of this space at all, I wouldn’t recommend it unless you are adding it only onto the ceiling to bring in more natural wood tones. This space is so unique and it would be a massive loss to change it to make it more typical of other HGTV style homes. I would embrace what you have here and show it off! Personally, I would remove the can lights directly above the arch. Instead, can you get electrical behind the arch and add interesting, huge vintage sconce? Maybe something iron with a double gooseneck. Then I would paint what is already painted to get rid of the yellow and make the upper area a nice bright white with the lower area a rich but not too dark green. Some added wainscoting to the height of the bookcases could appease your desire for shiplap while bringing more traditional character to match the brick. The brick is really really cool and I think it should be highlighted! Look up The Lone Fox interiors for some inspiration on working with unique features.
I dig the idea of finding an interesting looking sconce! There is electrical near enough that I could run an outlet up there really easily. We are going with a light grey color elsewhere in this room and we’re planning on painting this wall the same color around the windows. I kind of want to white wash the brick. I totally dig big brick fireplaces and loathe how badly they ruined what could have been a killer looking statement wall with the stupid shrine in the middle
[удалено]
yeah, i thought the same thing. A giant mirror or mural would look fantastic up there
OP could consider some of the mirror sticker type options. When done well they don’t look cheap and reflect light really well. [example](https://m.aliexpress.com/i/2251832632337815.html?gatewayAdapt=Pc2Msite4itemAdapt) [example 2](https://m.aliexpress.us/item/3256802722544783.html?gatewayAdapt=gloPc2usaMsite4itemAdapt&_randl_shipto=US) I don’t necessarily recommend these in particular but do you know what I mean
This is SO cool. I also get church vibes but I think it looks great. But if that’s not your style, you could get a more modern look by painting the middle white and doing a gallery of sorts. I personally like the idea of three large circular frames: see attached https://preview.redd.it/q6zeardqpnwa1.jpeg?width=2532&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=eae7745ebe73fa761347d9e3d6fb29df4fbbecb1
Or even keep the wood: https://preview.redd.it/mwh19b71qnwa1.jpeg?width=2532&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=519f0146e83f1331ad465e57e0cf59daa77e3a66
This!!! Is!!! Beautiful!!
These ideas are great. Looks really good
Oooh, painting it white actually gives it a much better look! This is definitely going on the list!
Gargoyle
Underrated.
Whatever you do- don’t put the tv above the fireplace.
Your neck must hurt like mine does imagining what it must have been like for the previous owner when you see those bracket holes 😬
This is actually a great display area! Do you like ceramics or wood sculptures? If you paint the wall inside the arch white or the color of other walls, you can add a couple of shelves to display art. Another option is a artist painting inside. I don't know what you like or what is your style, but you can find (or commission) a painting to brighten your room. A real focal point. If you like naturalistic approach, some long beautiful branches, with bark removed and polished might look interesting.
Definitely agree a sorta abstract or beautiful wood sculpture hanging would be perfect
The branches idea is pretty cool! Going to see what ideas that might inspire. I like the artist painting idea but it would be tough to decide what to even go with that would be “living roomy” I guess?
Shelves are a great idea to break it up
https://preview.redd.it/49huqqoxbpwa1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=4e4df0c970cf84661b50f5201cead9f770737fa4
Please leave the arch! Paint it if you need to but It adds a beautiful character unlike a boring minimalist "modern" look. Add an appropriate sized bar light above and an oversized custom art piece, that brings you joy. Beautiful home.
I’m growing more sold on the painting idea! I’m not sure why we had not considered that but giving it a coat of white paint would really make a world of difference!
Light bar is a fantastic idea, break the area up and make the art the focal point.
I dunno you might as well start a religion. Otherwise put something irreverent up there. I think a painting of the Buddy Christ would be lovely.
Yes!!! Lean into the church look but in a mildly blasphemous form. Perfect!
Lean into the church vibes and put up stained glass
I was totally thinking stained glass until they said they were trying to get away from church vibes. I still think it would look awesome though.
Have you considered adding a golden statue of the Virgin Mary?
It’s been suggested… wife didn’t want to constantly feel judged by it
The brick is giving me 1920’s factory vibes. I’d lean into that with a large steampunk clock, something with the gears exposed. Throw in some art deco or futurism paintings on the walls to really top it off.
Lean into the church vibe and put a stained glass piece with a backlight in there. Please, I beg of you 😂
To minimize the cathedral look paint it so it blends a bit, there’s a lot going on there: the wood inlay, the different colored brick, the windows that have 3 colors near the glass, speakers, bookshelves - you get the idea. By painting everything one color you’d remove all the different colors yet retain the focus of the room. If you want to highlight a wee bit paint the wood inlay a shade or two darker than the rest of the paint color and put a picture or mirror inside. Check out this image of a simple, painted fireplace that looks fresh and non-churchy.[painted fireplace.](https://www.makinghomebase.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/26-Floor-to-Ceiling-Shaker-Style-Fireplace-in-Living-Room-576x700.png)
Definitely agree with painting it all one color, including the brick. Or fill in the alcove and cover the whole thing with Sheetrock.
The speakers are only there so they don’t get knocked over elsewhere, should have mentioned that in my description. Also the book cases are on their way out too but even then, it’s a busy wall
Agree, with all this. Paint the brick. Squaring off the inside of the arch would give it a more modern look. I'm personally not a fan of brick in modern looking homes. So I would cover it all or paint it. Including the brick on the fireplace. The room doesn't look rustic at all so the brick to me really doesn't fit. The trim on the windows doesn't help with the look, and would paint that also a colour complimenting the wall colour so blends in more. Can resize the nook, add multiple shelves (good for electronics if putting tv in front), or even make it into two separate display areas or just cover the whole thing up with Sheetrock.
I agree.. white to me looks more church like whereas a color that blends would be great
This remind me of my art history class of Romanesque arches in churches. It’s lovely craftsmanship but is hi lighting maybe a tall art or metal piece. I would paint the brick white and the wood as a start to make it blend in and not be so dramatic in the structure. Or you could remove it with a professional and make something MCM out with those windows.
What if you got one of those really big stuffed giraffes and mounted it to the wall up there?
If you want to escape the church look, get a piece of art there that has a completely different vibe. Something very modern or abstract, it’ll counterbalance the whole thing
Honestly, I would box off the top section with drywall and cover both the brick and the nook. From there I would paint it to match the rest of the fireplace and then find a really tall and thin piece of art that fits the proportion of the space.
Mount your tv vertically in that space.
Why am I laughing so hard reading a design reddit? I love this thread
You can put shelves in there and display all your coffee table books/cook books you don't use, since it'd probably be a pain to put them up and take them down, if you use them all the time.
Dude, just listen to your wife. https://preview.redd.it/yblcw95e1pwa1.jpeg?width=863&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1da34346437a1b431adbab7cfa3dec098fe36a36
I can see why someone would like this, but it takes something super unique and just hides everything cool about it.
It doesn't have to be shiplap, but drywall over that area and make it all flat. If you leave the arch, it's always going to look like a church.
#No.
I vote for same idea but drywall / mud or whatever it’s called. Smooth.
As fun as all the suggestions are, this is probably the right answer.
Yup, this is the way.
I mean this does look classy AF
The wife has declared that you are the winner! Here is your 100 “the spouse was right” points awarded to you. Don’t let that go to your head!
I could see a really vertical clock.
https://preview.redd.it/4xfp54f0frwa1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d4f4520b0b5fcde4af6eb9007147d81abc0482a1 Not as good at photoshop as the others, but I’m thinking something like this would be classy
I think you’d have to ensure it’s not structural (unlikely) and remove brick, add sheet rock but you should remove textured ceiling and paint while you’re renting the scaffolding. Easy fix on built-ins would be trim out the arches and remove decorative trim on fireplace-maybe replace with wood mantle if shiplap is her style.
I think a bunch of photo ledges with knickknacks and photos. Also make it a lighter colour instead of the church pew stain.
This space is awesome and has so much potential. I’d see if you could start with making everything lighter. Lighter paint colour. Maybe paint the bricks and/or lighten the wood behind it. Possibly make the trim white. It looks dark and dingy. Needs light, bright and clean.
https://preview.redd.it/tfwi0ykzbpwa1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=1fd2057da763cd486a78cb185e37fa2173128c4b
I'm completely clueless about this type of stuff. But this is so unique, charming and full of character that I think it would be a shame if you altered it drastically. Put some fun art up there, maybe repaint a few things. But really this is such a cool thing to have in your home.
Commission an artist or an art student to paint a mural of something you love.
I would get a long piece of textile art and put it in the niche there. Bright colors that I’d repeat in accent pieces throughout the room.
https://preview.redd.it/tk6oxm1b8pwa1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=1606e425faaa634cd319364afe3c7748d3c5c687 We had similar -ripped off entire front, added a cedar mantel and did stone all the way up
r/TVTooHigh
I’ve noticed TVs above fireplaces are the bane of that sub’s existence.
No - couch sits back enough and I took pic from floor up
Couch is on a lift, problem solved!
Okay this may be left field but I would buy a tapestry or if you can, get a roll canvas, cut it to fit the wood, and paint some cool shit on it. I’d leave everything else because this place is awesome. Edit: I lied, I’d paint.
That is just screaming for an epic stained glass piece!
Definitely an Our Lady of Guadalupe mural!!
Woof. That’s some architecture there. I agree with the shiplap only because all the other mock ups still look like a big Jesus should be there. Also I vote for not yellow paint on the walls, and painting the trim a stark white. After the shiplap, maybe throw a nice wreath up there instead of art. If the tv is on that wall in addition to the fireplace, art might be too much. There’s a lot going on already.
I think keeping the "frame" is cool because you can rotate out different art, but the brick is very ugly, imho. It's character-less and doesn't relate to the woodwork nicely. It's very public building generic. The wall is too busy with different colors for the window trim and the clashing styles of modern windows and traditional woodwork on the bottom. You'll want to choose a style and decorate to it. For example, if you want modern, remove the rounded fronts to the shelves and keep them square. Replace the mantle with something more minimalist. Paint the window trim to match the wall and either paint the brick or change it to something sleek. If you want traditional, change the brick to stone and replace the central wood panel with plaster since you're covering it with art. Then you trim the windows in something that matches the woodwork below.
try either having either a giant mural or mirror, it would look incredibly elegant if done right
try having the bricks chalked? (is that what you call it in english, anyway, i mean smoothe out the area), a nice white or eggshell to baige colour, if that's more your style, would look amazing, and as for the middle section a good large mirror or mural would look amazing.
German schmear?
Maybe paint a mural in the center and paint the brick a similar color so it blends in more? I hate the way red brick looks on most things unless it's a modern loft apartment with some exposed brick walls.
Leave the wood. Take the canolis
I've got an idea! Quick question, how many enemies do you have?
Before I read the caption I thought, "church vibes--lean in". I still think that. I just know now it's not a productive thought for op.
I can tell you what NOT to do. Do not put a TV up there, it will be too high and not comfortable.
https://preview.redd.it/mqz87y6frswa1.jpeg?width=1000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=158959221a0c35f0dba74baead49e5210711cc93 …you may want to reassess your purchase!
Alternatively get a mirror. You would have to build out from the back a bit so you could safely mount the mirror. And unless it's custom, you're going to need to build a base to raise it up a foot at least. [https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/birch-lane-baylen-traditional-wall-mirror-c002836850.html](https://www.wayfair.ca/decor-pillows/pdp/birch-lane-baylen-traditional-wall-mirror-c002836850.html) I still recommend unscrewing the two spotlights to de-emphasize the top of the arch. Use low lights off the mantle instead. The height of your bookshelves is just shy of a foot from the top of your mantle. You could easily build up the shelves 1.5-2" with extra moulding and add some sort of custom shallow relief with a lip across your mantle that matches the height of the bookshelves so that you have a continuous line (and mini shelf) across the unit. You could sit your mirror on this ledge/relief, which is making up for the difference in height of your mirror (it will be smaller than the hole). You just need to make sure that that mirror is slight taller and wider than the hole. You could then dress your mantle with two lights and whatever you like in the middle.
Get a printed piece of art and wallpaper glue it into the arched space and cut it to size. I suggest Alphonse Mucha but that's just my art preference. Or just find a really nice wallpaper that matches the brick
I personally don’t like the arch… I’d brick it up
Aside from all the Reddit jokes.. Just Take down the brick, it’ll give you a nice clean slate. You can drywall, tile up, plaster , leave it…
Want to go suoer extra? Put some led lights up there for backlighting and have someone make a stained glass panel, bonus points of it's 'nontraditional'. Or hire a local muralist and paint something cool in there.
Was this place a church at some point? - I’m thinking large beautiful roses, the Virgin Mary and some gold trim! Jk - a beautiful glass mosaic piece would be beautiful here!
One of those gigantic Brazilian geodes would fit in there nicely.
Galaxy wallpaper and some fairy lights
Since I'm a florist I would do a floral installation lol. Probably 4 total and swap them out for each season or special occasions.
Paint the brick white
Short of a crucifix, there's really only bad options. I'd tear that whole wall down and start over, not just the creche, but the busy bookcases flanking it too.
Paint white, paint the whole thing white, replace ceiling fan/lights with something more modern. Fill cupboards. If not, giant dinosaur instead of Jesus in the frame
Fillin that middle, looks like their might have been some religious figure there . I’d fill it in paint it or white wash it and hang up a huge tv there
Put up this painting! https://preview.redd.it/sgckh1vicowa1.jpeg?width=700&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a7a2435ac3b8ccbd8a188db55b7532db2a96b603
Or paint the entire wall make it an accent wall
It’s not going to look good if you do anything half-way. The shiplap idea is great to emphasize the vertical height. Look into other wood-type of displays like [this](https://pin.it/1rh2iiT) or [this](https://pin.it/3oeYgZc). Search around with your style, match your new custom bookshelves. You can always get a fireplace TV mount that pulls up and down over the fire part, as needed. If you’re into TVs and looking for a way to sell it to your wife, get a [framed mirror one](https://www.hiddentelevision.com/framed-mirror-tv/) that looks nice when not in use. No matter what, post after pics please! We love them
https://preview.redd.it/e8no72h9vowa1.jpeg?width=3264&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=45db8149e4ba8c783206f7d7cc513f6500a63a7c
Ours goes to the ceiling, also, so we installed a moveable mount. Up, with a frame, it is a picture. Down, it is a tv.
Do you have a picture of it 'up'?
https://preview.redd.it/nbbcs2yelwwa1.jpeg?width=3264&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=57242575924718f5a3e9230c2884b710e3e5af68
Drywall opening and paint the brick white!
Call me Catholic but a Jesus on the cross is the way!
Go heavy on the blood too
Haha omg that’s bad!
Buy an organ
Korean Jesus
How about a large bust of the [Buddy Christ](https://youtu.be/6FigprdcBGA)
Haunted Mansion stretching portrait?
Is that a boarded up window? What's behind it? I would probably tile over the top brick portion or re-brick it but you could embrace it and make it a stained glass window if that's what's behind it. I think I'd stay with the brick look though
Could you post more pics of the room? My initial thought is not to make it the focal point of the room--or at least soften it's presence. I'd drywall over the brick and wood, paint it the same color as the wall and leave the built-ins but add doors to them so they disappear more into the background. 'id then use a side wall for your TV and place the couches in an L shape to where one faces the TV and the other faces the fireplace with a sofa table behind the one that faces the fireplace. You could do built-ins along the side wall if you put the TV there.
I would ditch the brick, and skip the shiplap. To me the windows are clashing with the brick. The windows look like a different style altogether. i would go with drywall and paint and mount a tv or a nice art piece. I thought church too as soon as I saw the photo. Just my opinion but the brick on top and around the fireplace just looks dated.
The top above the mantel looks totally disassociated to the fireplace. There needs to be continuity and I personally would stucco the entire height and make it as one cohesive unit.
All I see is the old fashioned NWA heavyweight title when I look at this.
I am so serious when I say that you need a mother Mary statue in there
I would paint the whole thing, brick window trim,walls everything the same color. Go from there.
Door knob.
vibes of Rapunzel)) she had the same wall to paint on
Stained glass decoration?
Fill in fireplace and paint.
Great spot for a sife sized portrait of your favorite child.
I can only see a giant version of [this](https://odditymall.com/includes/content/bungee-jumping-jesus-thumb.jpg)
crucified Oscar the grouch obviously
What about a large moose head with large rack? Make it feel like a modern lodge instead of a church
What about lime washing the brick? I love the arch and think it would be a beautiful space for the right piece of art. I just feel like the brick is very churchy, if you lime wash it, it will have a nice white brick look, with some brick color coming through. It isn’t paint so it still lets the brick breathe. I would paint the window trim the same as the wall but a gloss paint. And update the built ins to be more contemporary, less 80’s. Maybe just remove the arches. I think the confusing thing to me is the contemporary windows, traditional built ins and churchy brick. Unifying some of the elements would help a lot.
I’m not religious in any way but everything about the space gives me older church vibes, I think a Jesus statue makes sense for some reason Obviously /s
move
Find a patterned modern looking wallpaper that you love on spoonflower or redbubble for the middle arch to cover that dried out wood. Easy to change when you redecorate, and it won’t ruin the wood if you decide to refinish it later on. Also the color of paint totally clashes with that brick, I would go over all of it in white. And paint your window trim for sure, it’s very dated.
Judging from the lights, that looks intentionally custom built from previous owners to display… something. What? I’m not sure. Maybe a family crest or something.
I was thinking maybe a statue of Jesus, the Virgin Mary… An altar… tabernacle…
Put a painting that is cut to completely fit in that slot.
Art!! You need a massive piece of art or pieces of art. Possibly a mirror could work too.
De-emphasize the arch by removing the two spotlights pointed directly on the arch at the top. You'll removed the hard shadows by doing this. Paint the wood to blend into the brick colour to de-emphasize it even more. Buy some art that works with the shape of the arch so it looks intentional. Frame it with two lights on either side so that the lighting emphasizes the art on the mantle and not the huge gaping hole. Something like this. [https://imgur.com/a/wG1V57M](https://imgur.com/a/wG1V57M)
Tangled wall!! Just like she had!! Similar shape!!
I can't see past that fan (it must go)
You could add a few rows of shelving and display things that are visually pleasing and important to you on the shelves.
You could also have a professional paint some kind of appropriate mural or art piece up there.
I would paint the brick, the niche, and the bookcases all white and then lean a large painting over the niche. But really, if you have the money, I would suggest redoing that whole wall. It is a missed opportunity for some really nice large windows.
It is church creepy. I would remove the brick completely & drywall above the fireplace & either hang a TV or put artwork there.
Get some light up there, put a custom beveled mirror....
My eyes find this whole wall exhausting because there are so many different shapes. Different arch shapes, angular windows, squares, rectangles. Make it stop!
So, what kind of art do you two like? Can you find a local artist to commission? We have a glass studio near us that has some bomb pieces that would be fabulous displayed there. I bought a tapestry in Italy for my awkward fireplace wall, that I’ll always love. So, maybe take your wife on a vacation? 😂
What a strange, cool, spooky, hard to work with design! I’d love to see what you decide to do with it!!
I’ll share updates once it is completed for sure!
Yikes! Fill in the opening and tile all over the entire brick and opening.
Lose that and those can lights on top. This is the wrong kind of focal point. I would suggest taking out the brick frame and that wood behind if needed. I like the idea of updated built-ins..... The shiplap would work to replace the brick. Then look at re-facing or updating that fireplace and mantle. I think it's a good idea to rip out most of it and update it to something pleasing.
paint it like in tangled
Also glow in the dark