From Outdated Pre-Fabs to a Coordinated Fireplace Wall Redesign
Many older prefab fireplaces were installed as builder-grade features designed more around basic function than long-term performance or room design. In this Ellicott City home, both the family room and master bedroom fireplaces no longer matched the layout or appearance the homeowner wanted, and the surrounding wall configurations limited how the spaces could function visually.
The homeowner wanted to modernize both fireplace areas while improving the layout, storage, lighting, and overall appearance of the rooms without completely rebuilding the surrounding spaces. Priddy Chimney Solutions was brought in to remove the existing prefab fireplaces, coordinate the structural and electrical updates, and create a cleaner, more intentional fireplace design throughout the home.
A Coordinated Fireplace Redesign in Ellicott City, MD
This project involved work on the front right chimney serving both the family room and master bedroom fireplaces. Rather than treating the fireplaces as isolated upgrades, the project included coordinated framing, venting, cabinetry, electrical, finish work, and chimney modifications to support the overall redesign.
Fireplace Before Redesign
The Opportunity: Modernize Both Fireplace Spaces While Improving the Overall Layout
- Removing the outdated prefab fireplaces
- Creating a cleaner family room fireplace wall
- Framing the wall to accommodate a 60” slim TV layout
- Adding built-in storage and shelving
- Updating lighting and electrical infrastructure
- Improving the appearance of the master bedroom fireplace
- Completing the work cleanly while coordinating multiple trades throughout the home
Our Fireplace Conversion & Redesign Process
Demo & Removal of Existing Prefab Fireplaces
The project began with the removal and disposal of both existing prefab fireplaces connected to the front right chimney system. Removing the original units created access for the framing, venting, electrical, and finish work required for the redesign.
Family Room Fireplace Wall Redesign
In the family room, the existing hearth stone was kept while the surrounding wall was reframed to support a new 60” slim TV layout above the fireplace. Tile was installed across the front facade wall to help modernize the appearance of the fireplace while maintaining a clean, balanced layout within the room.
The redesign also included:
- Installation of (2) 42” base cabinets with drawers
- Construction of custom shelving above both cabinet units
- Additional built-in storage integrated into the fireplace wall layout
These updates helped turn the fireplace wall into a more functional focal point within the family room rather than simply a standalone fireplace opening.
Master Bedroom Fireplace Updates
The master bedroom portion of the project focused on updating the existing fireplace while maintaining portions of the original surround. The throat area was closed with plywood, and a new Orion Traditional 42” fireplace unit was installed while preserving the existing surround configuration.
Additional work included:
- Ordering a new filler piece for the lower section after final measurements
- Running a dedicated 120V electrical line to the fireplace area
- Completing ceiling and wall painting throughout the upstairs hallway
- Replacing the bathroom door with a new 24” 6-panel door using the existing hardware and hinges
These updates helped improve the overall appearance and functionality of the upper-level fireplace and surrounding spaces while keeping portions of the original layout intact.
What This Project Required Behind the Walls
This project required coordinated work behind the finished walls to support both the fireplace redesign and the surrounding room updates. The family room wall was reframed to accommodate the new fireplace layout, built-in cabinetry, shelving, and 60” slim TV configuration, while electrical work included a dedicated 120V line for the fireplace area and the addition of (8) recessed lights throughout the room. The master bedroom fireplace also required dedicated electrical planning along with plywood installation to close underneath the chase area and modifications at the chimney top, including a new chase cover and chimney closure work.
The Resolution: A More Functional & Modern Fireplace Layout in Ellicott City
What began as two outdated prefab fireplace installations became a coordinated redesign involving fireplace removal, framing, cabinetry, electrical upgrades, chimney modifications, and finish work throughout multiple areas of the home.
The completed project provided:
- Cleaner fireplace wall layouts
- Updated built-in storage and shelving
Improved lighting and electrical infrastructure - Modernized fireplace appearances
- Better integration between the fireplaces and surrounding room layouts
Rather than performing isolated cosmetic upgrades, the project focused on creating more functional and intentional living spaces built around the updated fireplaces.
Ready to Plan a Fireplace Redesign in Your Home?
Priddy Chimney Solutions works with homeowners throughout Central Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC to transform outdated fireplace systems into cleaner, more functional designs built around long-term performance and modern living spaces.
