HI Sarah I love what you have achieved. Many congrats for embracing what you have and creating something that totally enhances the placement of the fireplace. The space looks like it was made for the placement of that perfect chair and you've done a gorgeous job with your selection and placement of art . I am moving with considerable grief from my gorgeous arts and crafts bungalow to an early1970s small house. I have to say this style of architecture in NZ wasnt exactly a highlight. But I set myself a challange to embrace the architecture and look to enhance rather than fight it . That challenge shifted me off my despair track and now I am excited and hopeful and thinking about space and colour and the amazing light pouring in (a quality of houses of this time)..and textures . i feel so cteative in new and diffetent ways...and it's so exciting. seeing what you have achieved - it is very affirming for me I love what you have created.

Hi, into only taken 2 years ..but finally finished the room, the box to the right of the fireplace we found out housed gas pipes so ripped all that out, couldn't put in a wooden 1930's fireplace if I wanted a burner due to fire regulations, so opted for a concrete wooden effect beam, with a natural slate underneath , we stripped the walls, replastered and finally painted... just waiting on my new curtains and I can shop for a nice new rug possibly :) before and after ...

The rest of the house is nearly restored and we are down to one of the final stalling points, what to do with the main fireplace. I've attached some better photos. Since taking them I have made a start on stripping it back. I've removed all the old fabric from one of the chairs and sanded a section back. The dark finish is not ingrained in the wood so sands of relatively easily. I'm thinking I may as well have a go at painting it before my wife makes me take it out! Its not the main living room so we won't be using the room very often. Therefore I don't think it matters that it's not really practical.

Hi Keeley, I haven't seen the fireplace or its context in the room but as a rule of thumb, fireplaces are usually a great feature to have (even if they aren't being used) and in most cases, a shame to lose. But of course, it all depends on the space and what you want from it. If you have a photo to share I would be happy to help give a more informed opinion. Best, Caetana