How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall fireplace electric can be your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of designs available however, it is essential to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

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

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is fresh and striking and makes the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements like the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character any room. The same method can be employed 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 another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that can fit in with more traditional country style.

When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and conforms to all local and national codes.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been destroyed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes, plus a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, as well as a landscape picture above the mantel.

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 appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

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

No matter which method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found at a variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any style, whether contemporary or traditional. The choice of an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with different textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the room an authentic, classic look. They also go well with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up 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 adds the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace bioethanol (Learn Alot more) is the perfect place to experiment with a bold design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color creates an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial style.

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

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for fireplaces and can be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant look to any living space and will look great with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is by giving it 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 with the scheme of color in the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is made of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust.

White is a popular shade for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade can make your mantel really stand out. To get ideas, look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they have the same color as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you decide to go with the latter option, select one that blends well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that may have been hung above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around the brick fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

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