How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.

The heat output, the controls, and the design are just a few of the important features. If you aren't familiar with these elements, it's best to seek out an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its outdated stone surround and wall fireplace dull walls. The new style is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and fireplace Suites contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior while the shelves that are gray below contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast or match the other trim elements, like thick casings around doors and windows. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, you can use dentil trim instead.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding character to rooms. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

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

When you incorporate brick in a fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all national and local building codes for security.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things, but too many can take over the appearance of a fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, wall fireplace barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that improves their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of natural-inspired wall fires sconces, and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set over a freestanding fireplace gas, electric or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without burning fire.

Regardless of which method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its design instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any style, whether contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. marble fireplaces-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve the design of a 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 gives the entire room a an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a pattern risk in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to test a bold design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but lively energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown hue provides this space with a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.

Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to use tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat-resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add elegance to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

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

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To get rid of any debris or dirt wipe the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. However the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Do they have the same color as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you decide to go with the latter option, select one that blends well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.