ADVICE

Reader's question:

"I would like suggestions on how to make the fireplace nook in my home feel cozy. The room has hardwood flooring, timber windows and wood crown moulding. The fireplace is covered in ornate stone veneer"

Our recommendations:

In designing this space, we drew inspiration from the warm and cozy atmopshere of bistro lounges, where friends can enjoy each other’s company by the fire.

You can build a floor to ceiling set of oak bookcases and cabinets flanking the fireplace. The bookcase checkerboard pattern matches the fireplace stone veneer. The lower part of the bookcase on the right features a log holder.

A radiator cover with a brushed, silver-colored anodized aluminium grille can safely and stylishly cover the unattractive below the window. Wood venetian blinds give a natural and warm feel to any contemporary or traditional interior. Oak venetian blinds are a truly versatile solution for the window near the fireplace.

You can place two brightly upholstered ottomans in front of the radiator for people to sit closer to the fire. High-back uphostered benches provide additional seating. They feature cantilever tables in oak wood finish, which slide along a rail attached to the lower part of the benches. The simple coffee table and the square pattern rug under the table create a warm and friendly atmosphere in the fireplace nook. You could complete the design by installing two wooden frames along the walls and ceiling, and placing spotlights between them.