Fireplace Evolution

Since we moved in almost 2 and a half years ago, our fireplace has been a steady but SLOW project to progress.  Although we are still not quite done, we saw some major progress over the weekend that has totally changed the way it looks and functions.

Our fireplace, through the years...

Simply in place.

In place and functional.

In place, functional, and covered up.

In place, functional, covered up, and ready for scratch coat.

In place, functional, covered up, and scratch coated.

In place, functional, covered up, scratch coated and countertops installed (had to wait for IKEA for these).

In place, functional, covered up, scratch coated and countertops installed, doors hung.

What's left on the list?  An oak mantel that is currently in our basement ready for sanding and hanging, some millwork to truly make the "built-ins", built in, the rock that will cover the entire face and sides as well as some shelving for the non TV side.  Still a decent amount of work but will we chip away at it as time and budget allows.  The doors and countertop installation this past weekend is a huge addition since now the mass of toys on the right, and mass of wires on the left are finally tucked away and out of sight, something I have been looking forward to ever since we moved in.

The holidays list for us around here is short, as we are focusing on spending time with family and loving on little ones rather than working on the house.  We will however build and drywall the second bedroom downstairs so that our visitors all have their own space at night, as well as hopefully install the mantel to the fireplace before Christmas.  I have a couple of art projects on the go as well that I should be able to complete this week in time for the big day.  8 days - GO!