How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will give your living room an eye-catching focal point. There are numerous models on the market however, it is crucial to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to seek out an expert to help you choose the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplaces fireplace surround and bland walls created a living space that was in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is fresh and striking making the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to make a simple but efficient way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To tie the look together, choose a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements, like thick casings around windows and doors. 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 look, you can opt for dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that can fit in with more traditional country style.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and complies with all local and national codes.

Open shelving is a great way to organize books and other items, but too many can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks to give a rustic look. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process which increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose as a mantel or Fireplaces fireplace accent wall. For example the earthy hue of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes such as marbled paint or rust.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fire fireplace, or incorporated into a stone fireplaces or brick fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.

Whichever method you choose to put in 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 face of extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are available at most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the space a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.

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 patterned tile gives the entire room a a handcrafted appeal that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold pattern which could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial style of this space.

Tiles that resemble brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. A majority of these options are heat resistant and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add the look of a room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

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

If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for cracks, gouges, 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 before painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a favorite color for ethanol fireplaces and walls. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter, choose one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat with the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.