How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are many models available so you need to pick one that meets your requirements.

The heat output, the controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these elements, it's best to hire a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace suite surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. With a few design tweaks the new look is fresh and striking, making the hearth an important centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame your fireplace surround. To bring the design together select a trim design to contrast with or complement your other trim elements like thick casings around doors and windows. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse style, choose to use dentil trim instead.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a popular way to add character any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking appearance.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the fireplace and your surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all local and national construction codes for safety.

Open shelving is a great way to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could make a mess of a fireplace. The owners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room's mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the space.

Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement your existing decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique look. They can also be painted for a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be placed over a freestanding gas, electric fireplace or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

Whatever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while blending with any decor style from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with a variety of texture choices for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflects light beautifully and enhances the space.

The proper tile pattern can improve the overall design of the fireplace. For example, the ribbed tile on this fireplace by @lorenapulichinodesign creates an interesting visual element that pairs beautifully with the smooth, thick mantel. The patterned tile gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is a great spot to test an imposing design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this space.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able be bonded to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and nicks. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a popular shade for walls and fireplaces wooden. But, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Do they use the same color as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter hue? If you choose the latter option, pick a color that will work well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are on or within it. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has built up.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.

While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be quite heavy and Fireplace stove (rainilbo.com) dark in hue. Paint the mantel with in a neutral or light shade can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the overall look.