How do I make a 1970s floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace look modern?
In Mills River, plan the update around propane — many of these rural, large-lot homes run LP rather than a gas main, so any conversion behind the new stone gets set up for it. Beyond that, mute the 1970s stone with limewash, reface it clean, or rebuild the surround; the open valley setting also makes extending the project outdoors worth a thought.
Fuel first out here
Mills River is farmland and forest with houses spread across big lots, and a lot of them are on propane rather than natural gas. That shapes the firebox side of a remodel: a sealed insert converted for LP needs the right orifices, regulator, and pressures, because propane burns hotter per unit and a wrong-fuel setup will soot new glass and stone quickly.
So the fuel gets settled before the finish. A Kozy Heat Springfield or similar propane-country unit gives clean, power-optional heat behind whatever new face you choose.
Update inside, and consider outside
For the stone itself, the routes are the usual three — a limewash to calm the busy color, a reface over the existing wall, or a full rebuild of the surround for a monolithic modern look. The open Mills River valley and cool evenings also make this a natural time to talk about a gas fire pit or outdoor feature, ideally planned in late spring before entertaining season.
Whatever the scope, the gas line is licensed work no landscaper or mason can legally connect. We pull the Henderson County permit, pressure-test the line, and meet the inspector — 25 minutes from our Asheville showroom.
Carry the gas outdoors, too
Since we're already running and pressure-testing a gas line for the indoor remodel, a Mills River property with room to spread out is a natural candidate to extend it outside. We handle the gas and appliance side of a fire pit, an outdoor fireplace, or a permanent patio heater — your builder or hardscaper does the counters and stonework, and we coordinate. On these open valley lots with cool evenings much of the year, an outdoor feature earns its keep long after the entertaining season ends. Call (828) 545-0525 for a free in-home assessment.
Fireplace help in Mills River
We install and service fireplaces throughout Mills River and the rest of Henderson County — just 25 minutes south from our Asheville-area showroom.