The fireplace in the family room of this Richmond Hill townhome was a beast. It was massive, dark, heavy and completely overpowered the room.

I wanted it to remain the focal point of the room but it had to be toned down in both size and colour. I convinced the clients to let me take down the shelving unit above and paint the mantle and surround white. I know that some people think that painting wood is blasphemy but there are times (many) where it is the right thing to do.

Still the focal point but so much less intrusive.