There are many elements of mid-century design that I like, but there are some that I dislike. One of these dislikes tends to be fireplace surrounds – they are usually characterless lumps of concrete clad in ceramic tile, or faux-stone. Ours is no different.

It is being removed to allow the installation of a wood burner, which will be recessed into the chimney breast. The breast opening needs to be enlarged to create the recess, which is a fairly significant undertaking. This work is being undertaken prior to the main renovation and is therefore subject to a seperate Building Regulations application (for structural alterations and installation of a controlled service).

First, the fire surround and fire hearth is removed with a little help of a chisel drill.

The plaster is then chipped off to expose the masonry and the existing lintel in the area to be widened. Exposing the masonry allows the Strong Boy supports to be inserted above the height of the new, wider lintel. These supports will take the load of the chimney, whilst the demolition takes place beneath.