How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models available however, it is essential to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and dull walls. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple, yet effective method of framing a tile fireplace surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add personality to the interior of a room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material you can use to build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. The rustic-look brick is an alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country style.

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

Open shelving can be excellent for storing books and other objects. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of a fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a wall uk fireplace. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls and other buildings that were removed. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a fully rustic design or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process which increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. For instance the earthy color of pine that accentuates this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of the space.

Repurposed wood beams will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be left as-is or stained to match your current decor or carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as marbled or rust paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of 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 be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. 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 surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some color to make the Fireplace online store stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individualized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also go well with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.

The proper tile pattern can improve 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 patterned tile adds a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a patterns in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold design that could be intimidating in other parts of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color gives this space an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial style.

Tile that looks like brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to update the appearance without spending a fortune. Many of these options are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to stick to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is with fresh coats of paint. Painting the mantel a different color also adds warmth and personality to the room. 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 of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.

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

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared then wipe it clean with a a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

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