How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market, however, so it is essential to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and eye-catching and makes the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade while the shelves that are gray below contrast. A few color changes can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to create a simple, yet effective way to frame a tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around windows and doors, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse style, choose to use dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible option you can build a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

When incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and complies with all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving can be excellent for storing books and other things. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were removed. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They have the typical marks of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes and a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of a cozy rural retreat. Its knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a painting of a landscape over the mantel add to the rustic ambiance 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 design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted for modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

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

Whatever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are sold at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor choice from traditional to modern. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is a great way to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up 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 pattern of the tile adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern fireplaces style of the fireplace with the overall modern design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to play around with the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown hue creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial decor in the room.

Tiles that look like brick or other common materials is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much simpler to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without costing you a fortune. A lot of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring a sense of elegance to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is with fresh coats of paint. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and character to the room. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose something bold.

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. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, mouldings, fireplace design and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you opt for the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are on or around it. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

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