How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are many models available, so you should choose one that suits your needs.

The heat output, controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to hire an expert to assist you in choosing the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is vibrant and eye-catching and makes the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade and the shelves in gray below contrast. A few color changes can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, like the thick casing around doors and windows to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for an elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose conforms to all building codes for safety.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other items. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the look of a fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other structures that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes, plus natural patina that increases their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. For example the earthy color of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to 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 design or carved to create an antique look. 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 for any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas or electric or ventless fireplace or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Whatever method you choose to put in your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style, from traditional to modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look, while adding some color to make the ethanol fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. stone fireplaces-look tiles are a favorite that give the room an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials, Fireplaces Wood such as wood. Another timeless option is marble fireplaces-look tiles, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the space.

The proper tile pattern can enhance the look of a 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 whole space a handcrafted appeal that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great place to test a bold design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this room.

Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to select tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much simpler to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the look without spending a fortune. Many of these options are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add elegance to any room. It also works 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 an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted a different hue to give it a more cosy and spirited look. If you decide to match it to the decor's color scheme or go for something bold and striking, a fresh paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is made 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 amount of time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt clean the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for walls and Fireplaces wood but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Do they have the same shade as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the look well-balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, removing any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is empty, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, and any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.

The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you opt for 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.