Adding a Fireplace to a Blank Wall

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Here's a solution to a blank wall that you may want to cozy up-add an electric fireplace. Here's how we did it.

If you’re following me on Instagram, you know we were trying to get our basement renovation done in time for our son’s high school graduation. In the end, we got it 90% done. One of the main features of our basement is the fireplace wall with built-ins. We had absolutely nothing on the wall to begin with, it was a blank slate. But I knew I wanted a fireplace in the basement, and an electric one made the most sense. Let’s dive into the before and after.

The Before

When we built our house 7 years ago, we left the basement unfinished. We have a ranch-style home, so the basement is the same size as our main level, and we couldn’t afford to finish it at that time. But the time has come to finally finish the basement. We started with the “main room”. This room will be another family room/living room, but it will also have a small kitchen/bar area. I envision a gaming area as well, with another section for seating.

The “fireplace wall” was only studs and insulation when we started. We had to create a new wall for the fireplace and built-ins with more studs. Andy built the rough-in for the fireplace based on the dimensions. We also added the electrical for the fireplace.

During

We went with the Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace Forte 40″. It is a recessed-mounted fireplace with several ember and color options. The greatest part is that you can have the heat on or off and enjoy the look of the fireplace. The fireplace is controlled by a set of buttons right on the fireplace, or with a remote or Alexa. It has log and crystal options, as well. We went with the log because I wanted it to look more realistic.

After

Can you believe this is the same space? We completed this portion of the basement in about 5 months. Handy Andy built the mantel, and we added a marble-like tile around it. The mantel is painted the same color as the rest of the basement and trim (SW Alabaster), and the fireplace wall with built-ins is BM Intrigue. I just love how it turned out!

Conclusion

I’m so glad we went with the Touchstone Electric Fireplace. It was an easy install, and the fireplace works amazingly. I cannot wait to have Christmases in the basement around the fireplace. I love the option to have the heat on or off. In the winter, we will definitely have the heat ON. Until next time Treasure Hunters!