There is something so warm and inviting about a fireplace. Growing up, my family had a ritual of making a fire in our fireplace and hanging out in front of it almost every night during the winter. It is one of my favorite memories from my childhood. 

Well when Kris and I bought our house in Fort Lauderdale, I noticed that our new living room had the most perfect space for a fireplace. My request for a real fireplace was promptly rejected given the fact that the average temperature in our city averages about 75 degrees year round. However a few days ago we decided that it would be perfect to have a decorative fireplace instead...and we are going to attempt to build it ourselves! I am nervous to undertake such a large project but I think it will really pay off. I can't wait to have a place to hang stockings at Christmas time and a mantle to decorate! There are several great tutorials on how to build a faux fireplace from HGTV here and here, which should be helpful. 

Here are my inspiration pictures for this project...

 
Amazing built in shelves with a faux fireplace.
I love mixing beautiful decor with practical spaces.
{via apartment therapy}

 
I love this traditional brick mixed with the clean bright white
{via here}

 
This molding is beautiful, and I love the shell wreath/chandelier!
{via here}

 
We are thinking about adding a wood beam
at the top of the fireplace like in this picture 
{via here}

This entire room is perfect. I love the fireplace, chairs, pillows, etc.
You have to check out the entire room at the link below. 
{via here}

I hope you all had a wonderful Monday!