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 a variety of designs available, however, so it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The heat output, the controls, and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace overhaul. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is vibrant and eye-catching and makes the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the Buy Fireplace modernizes the exterior while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to form a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Select a trim style that is in contrast with or matches the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and meets all codes of the local and national level.

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

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes and 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 repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to create this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic charm of the room.

Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to complement your existing decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

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

Whichever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of material can be brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style, whether modern or traditional. The choice of an elegant matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room a rustic, classic feel. They also look great with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.

The proper tile pattern can improve 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 adds an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to play around with an imposing design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in the room.

Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but has the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces as well as able to stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and personality to the room. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose 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 are small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you choose the latter, choose the color that works well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace wall, it can be heavy and dark in shade. The mantel painted with an even or light color can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you choose to paint it a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror above it to balance the look.