I’ve always wanted to build a fireplace in our living room.
The space was practically begging for it and I just knew it would add so much warmth and coziness to this space where we all spend the most time together!
But we had one big problem… called baseboard heaters….
Unfortunately we have baseboard heaters that line the walls of almost our entire home. Which means that to make this project happen, I had to get reaalllly creative and figure out how to somehow build this fireplace around them so it doesn’t trap in the heat or you know… start a fire and burn our whole house down. You know, only a little important right?
Not going to lie, building it so far off of the wall wasn’t my original vision, BUT, I realized that it added the most perfect opportunity for some hidden storage!
I can’t wait to show you how I built this fireplace and how you can too … all without burning out your budget or your spirit!
Supplies I Used:
- 2×4 Lumber (for the framing)
- ¾” Plywood (for the main structure, front, and side panels)
- Drawer Slides (for smooth sliding hidden doors!)
- Select Pine 1×2 and 1×3 (for the trim)
- Pocket Hole Jig (because I wanted this thing to be as strong as possible!)
- Wood Glue
- Nails
- Wood Screws
- Measuring Tape
- Level
- Stud Finder
- Drill & Circular Saw (or table saw if you want to feel super professional)
- Jigsaw ( to cut the fireplace opening)
- Sandpaper or Power Sander
- Wood Stain or Paint (for that gorgeous finish)
- Clamps (because you only have 2 hands and you way more!)
- Wood Finish
Step 1: Building the Frame of the Fireplace
Start by cutting out all of your framing pieces for the whole thing with 2x4s. This is your skeleton, and no, it won’t haunt you at night unless you forget the pocket holes later. 😱
Since I had to build around the baseboard heaters, I designed a frame that sat out in front of the baseboard and then screwed the back into the wall. So it was kinda like little feet in the front and it kinda floated above the heaters in the back.
I also cut my framing pieces to create a spot for the fireplace insert to go after triple checking the measurements of the insert I chose. The biggest thing here is making sure that your frame will have enough strength to support the weight of the insert.
HOT TIP: Use your level as a guide throughout to make sure everything is straight. A slanted fireplace might be charming in cartoons, but in real life? Not so much.
Step 2: Pocket Holes (The Secret Sauce for Strength)
Something else I did that I am sure some people will say was overkill but I am glad I did it, is I used pocket holes to connect all my frame pieces along the back wall so they didn’t just attach to the wall, but they were also connected to each other to add extra strength.
The pocket hole jig will become your new best friend, allowing you to drill precise, strong joints for the pieces. Using the pocket hole jig, drill holes on the ends of the 2x4s and then use wood screws to attach everything together. This is the foundation of your fireplace—it’s got to be sturdy!
And by using pocket holes, you get a clean connection without any visible screws on the outside. Trust me, the last thing you want is to be explaining why your DIY project looks like a board game gone wrong.
Step 3: Installing The Fireplace Frame
Now that you’ve got your basic frame, it’s time to make sure it stays standing.
Attach the vertical 2x4s to the horizontal pieces, and when you’re attaching the frame to the wall, use a stud finder to locate the studs for a secure attachment. This is key to making sure that your fireplace doesn’t collapse when you inevitably end up piling random stuff on top of it. 😅
Step 4: Adding the Hidden Storage in Our Fireplace!
Okay this is probably my favorite part of this project! The hidden storage shelves!
I used melamine sheets, cut them down to size and slid them into each section of the 2×4 frames from the sides. These will become our hidden shelves that are inside of our fireplace frame!
I chose melamine for this because it’s smooth and easy to clean. And now these shelves are perfect for stashing extra blankets for when you’re Netflix-and-chilling by the fire.
Step 5: Closing Up The Frame!
Plywood is your best friend here—especially the ¾” plywood.
This stuff is sturdy, reliable, and perfect for creating the outer shell of your fireplace!
Just use your tape measure to mark where the plywood needs to be cut. Then attach the cut plywood panels to the front of the frame using wood glue and screws.
I chose screws over brad nailing it because its pretty much a full 4×8 sheet of plywood on the front of mine and its super heavy!
Step 6: Building the Hidden Storage Doors
It’s time to hide your stash!
Use ¾” plywood to create the side panels or the sliding doors of your storage compartments on the sides of your fireplace.
I did this by measuring the sides and cutting the plywood to size first. Then, I installed the drawer slides on the 2×4 frames on the side. This creates a sliding panel that reveals your…. hidden storage shelves!
Now a little warning! This part was definitely a two person job! I had my husband hold up the plywood as I slid out the drawer slide and attached it to the plywood. But I definitely learned this the hard way. So just save yourself the trouble and make sure you recruit a partner in crime for this part!
Step 7: Trim Work (The Cherry on Top)
Ah, the trim—the pretty part of any woodworking project.
For this, I used Select Pine 1×2 and 1×3. But here’s the twist: I ripped the 1×2 pieces in half, making them thinner for a more modern, refined look. Then, I alternated 3” and 2” pieces to give the trim a patterned, dimensional look.
HOT TIP : Attach the trim to the side panels first. THEN, attach the trim to the front on the edges and make it so it’s covering the edge of the trim from the side panels.
For the trim on the front edges, DON’T attach it to the plywood. This will lock your hidden storage on the closed sides. Only attach it to the trim that is on the sides. This ensures the sides can slide open while still maintaining a clean, seamless appearance. The trim will overlap the front of the side trim, creating a sleek, framed appearance.
Step 8: Cut Your Fireplace Insert Opening
Next up, we get to the heart of the project—making space for the fireplace insert.
Now remember, we already built the frame to actually support the insert, but now we need to cut a hole out of the plywood shell so that the insert can slide into place.
Using a jigsaw, carefully cut out an opening in the front panel that will fit your actual fireplace unit. Measure twice, cut once—seriously.
Once your insert fits perfectly, sand the edges to smooth out any roughness.
Step 8: Time for Paint & Stain!
Once everything is assembled, it’s time for the final touches.
Apply a nice wood stain or paint (the world is your oyster) to your fireplace.
I went with a rustic brown stain for that warm, inviting look that screams “I’m cozy and stylish, but not trying too hard.”
Use a matte finish to keep it low-key , or if you want a more glossy finish, go ahead, you do you!
Step 9: Installing the Fireplace and Electronics
Once your stain or finish is dry (patience, grasshopper), slide in your fireplace insert. Check the fit—this is not the moment for wiggle room. Then secure everything in place.
This is also a good time to go ahead and install your TV if you plan to have one above your fireplace, along with any electronics for the tv like routers, game consoles and video players ( THANK YOU HIDDEN STORAGE!)
HOT TIP: If you’re installing electronics near the fireplace, make sure to leave room for ventilation, or your Wi-Fi router might overheat and start giving you the side-eye.
Step 10: Final Touches
Now for the fun part: styling!
Add a mantel or some decorative touches. Maybe a couple of candles, a framed photo of your favorite holiday gathering, or a cute sign that says “Stay Cozy.” The possibilities are endless.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have room to add a mantel which is why I wanted to build this in the first place – bummer…
I’m so excited to share this project with you. It completely transformed the vibe of ur living room and the hidden storage is just … ( chef’s kiss!)
But as much as I love the result, I am the most excited about sharing it with you and hopefully giving you the inspiration and encouragement to build one of your very own! Because if someone tells you that you need to spend thousands on a pre-built fireplace, just smile and nod. I know you’ve got the skills and the tools, and you have this handy blog to prove it. 😏
And as always, if you need more help or have any questions about this project, drop them in the comments below! And for more ideas and DIY projects, keep reading the blog!
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