Create A Cozy Atmosphere With A Hassle-Free Fireplace DIY

When scrolling through home DIYs, it's all too common to stumble across a cute little fireplace setup only to remember that these jobs often come with a steep cost, a mess, or at the very least a complicated installation. However, in a clip by lets.stay.at.home on Instagram, this clever creator sets up an adorable tiling pattern behind an actual portable fireplace that they put together with minimal fuss. They outline a simple tiled pattern, presumably using a ruler, some tape, and a steady hand, and fill every alternating square with paint to turn a plain backdrop into the foundation for a bold statement fireplace. For those inspired, there are plenty of tutorials showing ways to hand-paint faux concrete tiles on a budget, making it a realistic weekend project rather than a contractor-level undertaking.

This fireplace upgrade trick doesn't stop at the tiles, though — a simple bioethanol burner is then placed inside the tiled backdrop. These burners are ventless, which means no chimney or gas line is needed, and a small open flame creates a cozy flicker without the smoke, sparks, or endless supply of kindling. The appeal for this hack is obvious: It offers warmth and character to a room that would otherwise feel unfinished. And considering it will take only one afternoon with a few cans of paint and a burner ordered online to pull the whole thing off, it makes a smart solution for renters or anyone who loves the atmosphere of a fireplace but can't realistically have one.

While the video nails the basics of this simple fireplace upgrade, there are endless ways to customize this to fit your particular home's style. For example, the faux tile can be painted in a classic black-and-white checkerboard or in subtle neutral tones, or even bold colors if that's your aesthetic, and you can also use stencils for a more intricate pattern. For a more playful retro look, consider the way to tile your fireplace for the ultimate '80s look.

The burner itself also allows you to get creative, as bioethanol fireplace models come in many styles, from sleek rectangles to glass-enclosed cylinders. You can even browse some of these freestanding fireplaces to keep your home cozy this winter if you're looking for further inspiration. Just remember that since the flames are real, safety always comes first — keep the burner out of the way of children and pets.

Finally, adding some key accessories will tie the whole project together, such as leaning a large mirror above the painted surround to make the space feel taller, or stacking candles and potted plants on each side give it a styled, intentional look. Even a small basket filled with wood, purely for aesthetics, creates a more authentic visual. The best part of the hack isn't just that it's affordable and easy to pull off, but you can make it totally unique to you and your home.