How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models to choose from so you need to pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, the controls, and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below contrast. A few changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to form a simple, yet effective, way to frame the fireplace surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast with or complement your other trim elements such as thick casing around doors and windows. If you want a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character any room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible material that you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country style.

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 the surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and complies with all national and local codes.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that improves their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. For example the earthy color of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match your current decor, wall fireplace or wall fireplace they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can also be painted to give a more contemporary appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbled paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric firesuite fireplace, or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.

Whatever method of installation you choose, make sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and complements any style, whether modern or traditional. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some contrast to make the fireplace inserts stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more personalized look. stone fireplaces-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. These tiles feature an elegant and glossy surface that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.

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 pattern of the tile provides the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a pattern risk in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to test the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color provides this space with an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial decor.

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

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. A majority of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add style to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. Painting the mantel a different color also adds warmth and personality to the room. If you decide to match it with the room's color scheme or go for something bold, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is made from wood, first check 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 up prior to painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

White is a favorite color for fireplaces and walls. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for ideas. Do they have the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you decide to go with the latter option, select the color that works well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that might have been placed above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or around it. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

The brick may be heavy in both weight and color. Painting the mantel an even or light color will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.