DIY Electric Fireplace Installation with Christine Nickerson

Why the Inception Electric Fireplace?

Christine Nickerson is an architect-turned-DIYer, passionate about projects that enhance the character of her home. Recently, she added a Slimline gas fireplace to her living room (https://www.heatnglo.com/ideas/how-to-add-coziness-to-new-construction-home)and loved the coziness so much, she was eager to find space for another fire feature. It led her to reimagine a traditional trend and add a fireplace to her dining room. “When I thought about where we’d enjoy a [second] fireplace, the dining room made the most sense because it’s so multi-functional,” Nickerson says. The Inception electric fireplace was the perfect solution due to its non-structural installation and no need for a gas line.

Planning the Installation

“We decided to install the Inception electric fireplace in our dining room, a multi-functional space used for family meals, get-togethers, and work-from-home activities. The goal was to create a beautiful focal point that also added functionality and coziness to the dining room,” says Nickerson. Before installing, assess the location of existing electrical outlets. Nickerson opted to install a new outlet behind the fireplace to keep the power cord hidden, providing a cleaner look that mimics a built-in fireplace.

Installing the Wescott Mantel Kit

The Wescott Mantel Kit simplifies the fireplace installation process, eliminating the need for custom framing, mantel building, or a construction crew. It’s a versatile solution that can be personalized to fit your home’s style. Initially, Nickerson painted the mantel kit a classic white. After installing the fireplace, she and her husband recreated a stone look on the flat trim around the firebox, enhancing the fireplace’s realism at a lower cost than using real stone.

Preparing the Space & Installing the Inception

Minor wall alterations included removing a section of the existing baseboard and chair rail where the mantel would be installed. And with the new outlet in place, the area was ready for the fireplace installation.

Step 1: Mount the Fireplace

Hang the fireplace onto the wall bracket.

Step 2: Position the Mantel

Slide the Wescott Mantel Kit into place in front of the fireplace and secure both with screws.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches

Arrange the decorative logs and embers to create a natural, realistic look.

Nickerson chose the clean and simple Folio front, but the Chateau Forge front offers more character if desired. Lastly, experiment with different options! The Inception features a range of realistic backgrounds and sound effects. The architect’s current favorites include the classic brick interior and sounds like “mature fire” and “summer night.”

Enjoying Your New Fireplace

The Inception can be enjoyed without heat, making it perfect year-round. And once winter arrives, the heat function will make the dining room even cozier. Overall, the Inception electric fireplace and Wescott Mantel Kit have added incredible charm, ambiance, and functionality to the family’s dining room. It’s a DIY project that’s both rewarding and transformative, creating an inviting space that can be enjoyed by a large group as much as Nickerson cozying up to get some work done – perhaps planning her next fireplace project.