Sometimes all a fireplace mantel needs is a fresh coat of paint. Our dark gray mantel went from tired and cold to warm and elegant with this creamy historic color. Here’s our warm & classic mantel makeover!
I was really beginning to wonder if this old mantel would ever see the day when it was go to go. For about a year now I have been throwing the idea around of repainting it. Almost three weeks ago I woke up and decided it was time to take the plunge. I have purchased a few sample colors but was super curious as to what was under that paint. When we purchased our home the mantel was painted white. It was chipping and the color had yellowed quite a bit. At the time we had so many irons in the fire that I couldn’t take on one more. I opted to simply repaint the mantel and move on. We chose a dark gray almost charcoal color called Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams. At that time we wanted to make sure the mantel was the main focal point of the space. We really loved it for a time but after a couple of years we grew tired of the dark color. I was ready for a fresh look and something much warmer and muted.
Here’s a look at the mantel before –
This post may contain affiliate links. You can read the full disclosure here.
Here it is today in a creamy new color!
First I used Citrus Strip to strip the paint. The oat wood underneath is quite beautiful but unfortunately we discovered some damaged that would have really shown up if we had left it stained. Once we realized that repainting was really our only good option, we opted to strip the white paint from the brick to allow the natural brick to add warmth. We used Citrus Strip for that was well and a simple wire brush and scraper. It was surprisingly easy. That may vary from person to person depending on the paint that was used.
I tried a couple of different colors but Jogging Path by Sherwin Williams won out. I love the tone on tone affect and the elegance it adds to the space. In our laundry room renovation we also used Jogging Path for the cabinet and shelving. It’s a very calming color that has a historical look to it. It’s truly a classic color!
The mantel now has just enough beige undertones to pair beautifully with our wall color, simply white by Benjamin Moore. The previous color was slightly too cold and did not flatter the walls as well.
Some simple mercury glass votives give the mantel some understated glam.
I know so many loved the gray mantel. I’ve been a big fan of the grays and even more so lately. I just like the feel of warmer neutrals. This is just a personal preference. There are so many beautiful color schemes and homes out there. Find your personal favorites and roll with them. I’m so glad I went with my gut on this project. The mantel is now a better reflection of my style. It’s even crossed my mind a few times to paint the trim in the same creamy color in this room… we’ll see!
Extra Room Sources
Wall Color – Simply White by Benjamin Moore
Mantel Color – Jogging Path by Sherwin Williams
Trim Color – Valspar’s Plain White Trim Paint
Sectional – Ikea’s Extorp with Lofallet Cover
Armchair – Ikea’s Extorp with Loffallet Cover
Botanical Prints – My Free Download is Here
Gold Frames – Ikea
Urn Planters – Homegoods (a couple of years ago.)
I LOVE how it turned out!! I have to admit, I was a fan of the gray – it was so pretty and made such a bold statement! However, this new color is absolutely stunning!! Thanks for sharing…..
Thank you so much friend! I loved the gray too, just grew tired of it. Over the years I’ve discovered I grow tired of bolder colors much more quickly than muted and soft colors. To each their own, I suppose. We’re loving the new color. It’s been such a serene place to sit.
Oh this is great ! It’s always amazing how paint transforms a room. Classic and fresh !
Isn’t it great, Deborah? Paint is so affordable and really does make such a big difference. 🙂
It looks beautiful! I have been following the process. I especially love that you restored the original brick. Perfect choices all around!
Thank you, Holly 🙂 I love how the brick turned out. It adds such a warmth that the room really needed. I’m one of those who will always think natural brick is timeless.
Looks fantastic! It is such a classic look that is timeless. I absolutely love your couch, where did you purchase it at. I have had such a hard time finding a good quality couch that sits well.
I love it! Both colors were pretty, but I like the lighter shade better as it seems more in sync with the overall style you have. Your home is so lovely. It inspires me with its harmonious, easy look. Sometimes I think decorating can be looks that look like a lot of work to arrange and live with. ;). I like easy and not cluttered or fussy looks. Your home is so restful in a good way – not by any means unattended to, but not “over decorated” or so many competing elements going on. It is simple in a wonderful way. I have set a goal of decluttering and simplicity for my home.
I have a small hutch I bought and painted white drying on my porch, and I plan today to do its second coat of paint and once dry get my nicer dishes onto it and move a shelving piece I have used as a baker’s rack to the guest bedroom to act as a bookcase. To be honest, I could display and utilize my storage better for dining items with what furniture pieces I have and in my kitchen cabinets. The small hutch will be more suited and has beautiful chicken wire heart doors on its bottom shelf. I want fewer visible items and also have been gifting or donating anything not my favorite of whatever item I have. Simplicity already feels better than clutter!