This DIY project has been one of my most impactful home transformations to date. When we were building our house, I was determined to design a living room with fireplace that would serve as a stunning focal point. I had always loved two-story living rooms with open staircases because they make a home feel elevated and spacious. However, this design choice came with one challenge: one very large, empty wall that felt intimidating to fill.
Our builder offered standard fireplace options, but I wanted something unique that would stand out in this large, open space. After some planning, I decided to tackle the project myself. Here’s how I brought my vision to life and created a living room with fireplace that’s both modern and functional.
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Planning and Preparing for Your Fireplace DIY
The first step was planning the layout. I actually used the iPhone’s photo app to make a simple sketch of the wall. Did you know you can draw
straight lines in the app? It made visualizing the fireplace dimensions so much easier! Once I had a clear idea of the layout, I ordered the necessary materials from Home Depot, including 2×4 boards in 10-foot lengths. Since my fireplace was going to be 5 feet wide, having 10-foot boards cut in half saved both time and waste.
Pro tip: I placed my order online, and when it was ready, I called the store and asked them to cut all the boards into 5-foot sections. This made transporting them in my car a breeze and saved me from doing all the cutting myself.
Framing the Fireplace Wall
I started by framing the bottom half of the wall. The first pieces were attached horizontally across the wall, anchored securely into wall studs. This ensured that all subsequent pieces had a stable foundation. For the framing, I used a Kreg pocket hole jig along with wood glue to secure everything.
Next, I framed out the area for the fireplace insert, essentially creating a large box 5 feet wide and 2 feet deep. A quick tip: always account for the width of your 2x4s (1.5 inches each) when calculating the depth to make sure your measurements are accurate. For example, 2x4s are 1.5 inches deep, so if you want a total depth of 2 feet, you’ll need to subtract 1.5 + 1.5 from your depth. I was thrilled that my fireplace insert fit perfectly on the first try!
Then it was time to work my way up! I put vertical pieces not only for stability but also to have a stud to attachthe drywall to. I knew we were going to mount our frame TV, so I created a small platform and opening for the box that goes with it. We had our builder install an outlet knowing this was our plan. I built a lot of the pieces on the ground, specifically the side pieces that created the depth, and then just attached them to the already existing studs. I also kept in mind how far the TV mounts needed to be from one another. Then, I finished placing the vertical pieces in the top portion.
Installing Drywall
Once I got all of the framing done, it was time for drywall! In the planning for the fireplace, I had considered the length of drywall. Sheets are typically 4×8. Since my width was going to be 5 feet (because this was easiest with the 10 foot 2x4s), I made my depth 1.5 feet. So, 5+1.5+1.5=8. This assured that I could use one full piece without a bunch of leftover. Since the wall was about 15 feet high, I divided 15/4= 4 total pieces. Drywall isn’t as scary as you may think! After measuring, just use a razor blade and straight edge to score your drywall (make a few repeated cuts) and then snap the piece on the line. Voila! Attach to the studs using drywall screws (remember- all materials linked below). I used a drywall knife to cut along the framing for the opening of the fireplace insert.
Mudding and Finishing
Next came taping and mudding the drywall. I’ll be honest—I’m no expert, but practice makes perfect! The process involves applying drywall mud over tape and screw holes, letting it dry, sanding, and repeating until you achieve the desired smoothness. Since I planned to cover the fireplace with Roman Clay, I didn’t need a perfectly smooth finish. The textured finish actually works beautifully in a living room with fireplace, giving it a cozy, high-end look.
Adding Roman Clay and Final Touches
Once the drywall was ready, I applied Roman Clay for a textured, elegant finish. This material adds a luxurious feel to a living room with fireplace and is surprisingly easy to work with. I also added a fluted mantel to frame the fireplace, completing the transformation and creating a striking focal point in the room.
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Supply List
- Drywall
- Drywall Screws
- 2x4s
- Miter Saw
- Construction Screws
- Drywall Mud/Joint Compound
- Drywall tape
- Sanding Blocks- 80 grit
- Sanding Blocks- 120 grit
- Sanding Blocks- 180 grit
- Kreg Pocket Hole Jig
- Kreg Pocket Hole Screws
FAQs: DIY Living Room with Fireplace
1. How can I design a living room with fireplace to make it the focal point?
A living room with fireplace becomes a true focal point when you plan the surrounding wall carefully. Use framing, textured finishes like Roman Clay, and a mantel or surround to draw the eye. Consider incorporating built-ins or space for a TV above the fireplace for a functional and stylish setup.
2. What materials are needed to build a DIY fireplace wall?
For a DIY living room with fireplace, you’ll need 2x4s for framing, drywall, drywall screws, mud and tape, sanding blocks, and tools like a miter saw and Kreg pocket hole jig. Depending on your finish, materials like Roman Clay or a decorative mantel may also be used.
3. How do I safely frame a fireplace wall?
Start by anchoring horizontal pieces into wall studs and then build vertical supports. Ensure that the framing is level and sturdy, especially if you plan to mount a TV above the fireplace. Always double-check measurements and follow fire safety guidelines for clearance around the fireplace insert.
4. Can I install a TV above a living room fireplace safely?
Yes! In a living room with fireplace, you can mount a TV above the fireplace as long as you account for heat and proper ventilation. Using a small platform and ensuring outlets are installed behind the TV will make the installation cleaner and safer.
5. How do I finish a DIY fireplace for a polished look?
After drywalling, tape and mud the joints, then sand to smooth any rough areas. For texture, finishes like Roman Clay add a professional look without needing a perfectly smooth wall. Finally, add a mantel or decorative surround to complete the aesthetic.
