Next, we add shiplap to complete this fireplace’s rustic look. We used 1/4-inch Lauan Plywood, which is affordable, popular, and available at the home center.

And we make it match in this recessed area in the living room, too:

Add faux beam to living room

 

Installing a faux beam breaks up the family room ceiling’s monotony and adds dimension and visual interest to an otherwise blank space.

Post-Production Thoughts

 

“Today’s Homeowner” hosts Danny Lipford and Chelsea Lipford Wolf visit with Crystal and Trent Gatlin.

Crystal and Trent have a beautiful home and the family room was already attractive; it just didn’t suit the style and unique personality of their family.

So we started with the focal point of the room — the fireplace. By removing the basic “kit mantel” and plain ceramic surround, we gave ourselves a blank canvas to work with.

The split bricks we used for the surround brought in plenty of rustic charm while Chelsea’s German Schmear finish added a touch of modern design and brightness to the surface.

The “faux shiplap” that we wrapped around the fireplace makes it unapologetic about its role as the focal point in the room, and the simple corbel and beam maple mantel add both warmth and sentimental value to the space.

The new beam overhead is simple and clean but it helps balance the room by drawing some attention to the enormous vaulted ceiling.
And the shiplap in that nook up above seems to give that area a little more purpose.

Plus we only spent a little over $500 for all the materials to complete the project.

Other Tips from This Episode

Simple Solutions with Joe Truini:
How to Prevent Clamps from Damaging Wood

Working in the shop? This simple modification will prevent clamps from damaging wood your projects.Watch video.

Best New Products with Jodi Marks:
Stylish, Soundproof & Durable Flooring

This floating wood-look floor features an innovative, closed-cell foamed PVC core for rigidity and strength, yet it’s lightweight and easy to handle.Watch video.

Watch and Learn:
How to Install a Faux Beam

Want to add rustic charm to your home? Here’s how to install a faux beam to add visual interest.Watch video.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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