HGTV's Mike Holmes Shares Tips For A Stunning Fireplace Feature Wall

When the winter chill sets in, and you find yourself spending more time by the fireplace, it's only natural to start dreaming of ways to give the space a stylish upgrade. The fireplace often serves as the centerpiece of a room, offering endless opportunities for creative design. If you've been wondering how to give that wall a touch of HGTV-level magic, you're in luck. HGTV's Mike Holmes has shared some genius tips for creating a fireplace feature using gypsum drywall, mortar mix, and paint to create a chic brick wall. This lightweight and easy design might be exactly what you need to transform your fireplace into a stylish and inviting focal point.

Before you stock up on all the must-haves to update your fireplace, consider starting with Holmes' tips to get a polished look that's not only functional but also elevates your entire space. Whether you're aiming for a cozy vibe or a bold statement, these ideas could be the perfect foundation for your fireplace makeover.

Mike Holmes shared his expert tips for creating a chic brick fireplace wall in a video on his Instagram, proving that achieving this timeless look is easier than it seems. The trick? He uses gypsum and a mortar mix for a lightweight, fireproof design that's both stylish and practical. Gypsum is a material in drywall that is naturally flame-resistant, making it a great choice for use in a fireplace feature. In the video, Holmes discusses the benefits of this material, explaining, "It's very easy to work with and it's also lighter on the wall itself."

To get the finished look, he suggests attaching gypsum panels to the wall with regular tile adhesive so they're securely in place. Next, you can fill the preset grout lines with real mortar mix to give the look of authentic brickwork. Once the mortar is fully dried, you can apply a paint finish of your choice. The best paint finish for painting a brick fireplace is a matte finish, but semi-gloss can work if you want a more polished effect. If you've been inspired by creative fireplace makeovers that blow you away, this project opens the door to endless design possibilities. After installing your new feature wall, you can decorate it with cozy accents or sleek decor to match your style. This fireplace upgrade not only brings new life into the space — it gives you the perfect focal point for your home.