This is the story of a very sad room.

It had been left just as it had been pulled together in the 80’s. And there it sat.

With its plaid couch, textured wall paper, oak cabinets, tired rug and a wall that needed to go.

And so the journey began to make it a happy room.

Contractors were hired to paint the trim. The carpet was pulled out and replaced with hardwood floors.

And the biggest change?

The wall between this room and the kitchen was knocked down.

New furniture and accessories were purchased and carefully laid out.

But it still wasn’t right.

Can you see why?

Yup, it was the brick fireplace. It was throwing off the whole room.

Now, every step of this project was hard fought change for the home owner and this was the end of the project.

I really thought me telling her the fireplace had to be painted would put her over the edge.

The compromise – she would agree if it was cheap.

Which meant - I was doing it.

So her son pulled the front grates off and I spray painted them with heat safe black spray paint.

And then I showed up one afternoon with this product, an open afternoon and my iPod with a great mix of music.

I am thankful she was not home to hear my singing.

And a few hours later….

The room was serene and peaceful.

And all of the pretty furniture and accessories made sense.

And the room was happy.

I always love a story with a happy ending.

And this one has a lesson in it too.

Sometimes, it really is okay to paint a brick fireplace.

Wishing you a great day and thanks for reading.

April 02, 2013 — Laura Putnam