How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models to choose from so you need to pick one that suits your needs.

Some of the most important features include the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you select the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is fresh and striking making this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasted with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To bring the design together select a trim design to contrast or match the other trim elements, such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you want an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective way to add character any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

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

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

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the look 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 open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls, and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that improves their longevity.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall mounted fireplaces. The natural tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that borders the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of the room.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace with mantel (official www.ypperfect.com blog) fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel, without burning fire.

No matter which method of installation you choose be sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, however 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 at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any style of decor, from traditional to modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another 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 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 gives a handcrafted look to the space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold pattern that could be intimidating in other parts of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create a stimulating layout. The dark brown color provides this space with an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial style.

Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

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

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is with fresh coats of paint. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and personality to the room. 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 bold.

If your mantel is made from wood, first check 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. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. To remove any debris or dirt wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. To get ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they have the same hue as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter hue? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the room looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will be able to stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall mounted electric fireplaces.

The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you choose to paint it a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to balance the look.