When the weather warms and the fire stays unlit for months, the fireplace can easily become the darkest, dullest corner of the room. That is a shame, because the hearth is the natural focal point of any living space — a spot the eye goes to as soon as you walk in. The good news is that with a little thought, an empty fireplace can look every bit as inviting in June as it does in December. The trick is to strip out the heavy winter layers and replace them with something lighter, greener and brighter.

Clear Away the Winter Layers

Start by giving the fireplace a proper spring clean. Scoop out old ash, brush down the grate and wipe the surround, tiles and hearth with a damp cloth and mild soap. Soot marks lift well with a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water, and a quick polish of any brass or metal trim will instantly brighten the whole area.

Then clear the clutter. Log baskets, fire tools, bellows and bundles of kindling all belong in storage until autumn. If your chimney is open, consider fitting a chimney balloon or draught excluder up the flue for the warmer months — it keeps cold air, sooty smells and unwelcome visitors out of the room. Just leave yourself a note to remove it before you next light a fire.

Swap Heavy Textiles for Light, Airy Fabrics

Winter styling leans on wool, faux fur and velvet. Spring and summer call for the opposite: linen, cotton, seagrass and jute. Pack away heavy throws and chunky knit cushions, and bring in lighter pieces in softer colours.

• Replace a thick mantel runner with a slim linen or cotton one in a pale, natural tone.
• Swap a heavy wool throw in the fireside basket for a lightweight cotton or waffle blanket.
• Use a woven seagrass basket instead of a dark metal log holder to store magazines or a folded throw.
• Change dark, heavy curtains for lighter voiles, or a fresh pair in a paler colour if the budget allows.

Light the Hearth with Candles and Lanterns

An unlit fireplace is crying out for candlelight — the single easiest way to make the hearth feel alive. Cluster candles of different heights on a tray, slate tile or stone slab so drips and wax are easy to manage.

• Group candles in odd numbers — three or five works beautifully — and vary the heights for rhythm.
• Mix pillar candles, tea lights in glass holders and a couple of tapered candles in slim candlesticks.
• Place a mirror behind the candles to double the glow and bounce light into the room.
• Choose fresh, seasonal scents such as linen, cut grass, citrus or white flowers rather than heavy winter spice.
• For households with children or pets, use battery-powered LED candles so the look is safe to leave in place.

Never leave a lit candle unattended, and keep flames well away from fabric, dried flowers and anything that might catch.

Bring the Garden Indoors with Plants and Flowers

Greenery is what really marks the change of season. A fireplace that held logs in January can hold living plants in May.

• Choose low-light tolerant plants such as ferns, ivy, peace lilies or spider plants for a shaded hearth.
• Trail a plant along the mantel, or let ivy spill over the edge of the surround for a soft, natural look.
• Group pots in odd numbers, mixing terracotta, glazed ceramic and woven baskets in soft, pale tones.
• Add a jug of seasonal flowers — tulips, daffodils, ranunculus or sweet peas — for a fresh, cheerful focal point.
• Rotate plants every week or two so they get enough light, and keep them away from the direct heat of any lamp.

Dress the Mantel with Art and Objects

The mantel is your best display space, so use it. Lean a mirror or a framed piece against the wall, then layer smaller frames in front, overlapping the edges slightly for a relaxed, collected look. Botanical prints, soft landscapes and pale abstract pieces all suit the lighter months.

Swap out dark winter accessories — heavy candlesticks, dark wooden bowls, deep-coloured ornaments — for paler, brighter pieces. A small sculpture, a stack of books, a simple ceramic vase and a single candle are often enough. Aim for odd numbers and leave some empty space so the arrangement can breathe.

Keep It Cosy for Cool Summer Evenings

British summers being what they are, there will still be evenings when you want a bit of warmth and comfort. Keep a lightweight cotton or waffle throw folded in a basket beside the hearth, and add a small rug or runner in front of the fireplace to soften the floor.

If the firebox is deep, use it as a display shelf: a row of books, a few board games, a lantern, or a collection of dried flowers in a tall vase. A decorative fire screen or guard finishes the look and keeps the space safe if you have young children or pets. Come September, simply reverse the process — sweep out the candles, return the logs and let the fire take centre stage again.