How to Build a Faux Fireplace That Looks Real

I love fireplaces, but unfortunately my current rental apartment doesn't have one. So I wanted to figure out a way of making one that looked real and could be removable so I can take with me when I move out. I wanted it to be very modern and simple to build without a workshop. I built my design around this electrical log insert. It's important to note that even though it has a heater feature, I am not going to use it as a heater

*** this is a decorative faux fireplace only, not to be used as a heater ***

Supplies

To build this structure. I use 2"x3", but you could also use 2"x4".

For the firebox, top and bottom, I used 1"x12" boards

For the skin of the fireplace, I used 1/4" plywood

For the mantle, I used 3/4" plywood, 1"x4", 1"x2"'s

For the finish, I used peel and stick tiles and paint

Step 1: Decide on the Scale of the Fireplace

I don't have any pictures of this but I used cardboard pieces tapes to the wall to see how different shapes worked best for my living room, considering the size of the faux fireplace insert .

Step 2: Assemble the Frames

These are simple rectangular frames - there's 4 of them.

Step 3: Attach the Side Pieces of the Firebox

Here the key is to line the pieces so that they are at the same height

Step 4: Attach the Top and Bottom Pieces of the Firebox

Simply prop up 2 of the frames and screw in place the top and bottom pieces, using a speed square to make sure they are at 90 degrees.

Step 5: Attach the Bottom and Top Piece

Attach the bottom piece, centered in the middle of the firebox, and then attach the remaining 2 frames on each side. Add the top piece to complete the frame. I've included pics showing the dimensions of my fireplace, but as I mentioned earlier, the nice thing about building your own fireplace is that you get the decide on the dimensions that work for your room.

Step 6: Attach the Plywood to the Front, Sides and Back

I used 1/4" plywood to enclose the structure. For the back of the firebox, I drilled a hole, using a hole saw, to be able to pass the electrical cord of my faux fireplace insert.

Step 7: Finish the Outside With Peel and Stick Tiles

The peel and stick tiles I used require a painted surface, so I painted the plywood, and then stuck on the tiles. Very easy and fast, and I liked how they had the look of stone.

Step 8: Build the Mantle

I built the mantle with dimensional lumber I had on hand, basically building a frame with 1" x 4" attached to 3/4" plywood and then I added 1"x2" to the bottom to close the gap (the mantle sticks out by 1 1/2" all around. I painted it since it wasn't very pretty wood, but it would be easy to add a nice slab of wood instead.

Since the fireplace is narrow and tall, I recommend attaching it to the wall so it doesn't fall over.

Step 9: Add the Faux Fire Place Insert

I was very impressed with how real this faux fireplace looks. Even though I'm not using it as a heater (*** this is a decorative faux fireplace, not to be used in heat mode in this project ***) it still sets the mood and looks great. I love it.