How to update this fireplace and shelving

bonehead903028402

We live in a rented property which we get quite cheap for the size etc but there are a few things I want to change.

We've got permission to decorate and been told we can do what we like really and have some spare cash.

These are the main things I want to change any ideas?




http://i1294.photobucket.com/albums/b616/Anna_Gid/image_zps21f70539.jpg

aggypanthus

That is the most odd fireplace I have ever seen, in a corner! do you need to have a fire still, and can it be moved if its a plug in electric one?

The shelves alcove dont look bad, why dont you like them?

aggypanthus

I can see you dont have a fire in it, whats the wiring around the hearth for?

bonehead903028402

The wiring is just a phone line extension for the broadband.

I don't hate the shelves just there is a lot of that coloured wood in the living room including a dado rail and windows and blinds so was thinking of maybe painting the wood or changing the glass shelves

bonehead903028402

To be fair id be happy with the shelves if something could be done about the fireplace

aggypanthus

If you remove the fireplace you would have to remove the full rail as it might be tricky to match.
So, remove fireplace, remove rail, strip paper, fill where rail came off, put up lining paper then paint . with luck the wall behind fire will be ok .
You will need new floor covering where the hearth was.

Make sure you tell landlord the full extent of your plans, and get his agreement in writing . his vision of "do what you want " may not be the same as yours.

-taff

When they say decorate, do they mean paint and carpet or do they mean you can remove the fireplace?
They don't mean the same thing to me.....I would ask specifically about the fireplace first before you do anything to it.

Fraise

Is that a gas valve by the fireplace?

Kaz2904

I think the landlord could be very upset if you paint the wood too. Once painted, you'll never get it back to wood properly.