How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are many different models on the market, however, so it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

The heat output, the controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to assist you in choosing the best model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its old-fashioned stone surround and bland walls. The new look is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements the other trim elements, like the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.

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

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to enhance a traditional country style.

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

Open shelving is a great option to store books and other things however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process that increases their longevity.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accentuates this traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape painting above the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the room.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without any fire burning. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

Whichever method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, modern or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room an authentic, classic look. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that provides a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate the entire look 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 natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a patterns in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold design that could be intimidating in other areas of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that works with the industrial decor in the room.

Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the look without spending a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to stick to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add an elegant look to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and character to the room. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces online, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you opt for the latter option, select one that blends well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or around it. Once the mantel is empty and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has built up.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, match it with a work of art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the overall look.