How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous designs available however, it is important to find one that meets your needs.

The heat output, the controls, and the design are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you select the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is vibrant and attractive making this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the exterior and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements, like thick casings around doors and windows. If you want an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try using a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and Wall fireplace colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country-style decor.

When you incorporate brick in a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all local and national building codes for security.

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other objects. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. The owners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels to create a rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that improves their longevity.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used to create this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern look or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden fireplaces beams are able to serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the possible effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is perfect to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more customized appearance. 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 fireplaces-look tiles that provides a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate the entire 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 pattern on the tile adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to experiment with a bold design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the dark brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in the room.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add the look of a room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace inserts has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted a different hue to give it a more cosy and spirited look. Whether you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or opt for something striking and striking, a fresh paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris clean the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Do they have the same color as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter hue? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the room looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clean the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.

The brick can be quite heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.