How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are a variety of models available and you must pick one that suits your needs.

The output of heat, the controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to consult an expert to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few changes in color also help the facade stand out from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple, yet effective method of framing a tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, like thick casings around doors and windows. 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-style.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as 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. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with more traditional country decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and meets all national and local codes.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other items. However, too many shelves can obstruct the look of the fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that increases 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 instance the earthy hue of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that borders the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting over the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of this space.

Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any room. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

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 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 decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials can become hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, contemporary or traditional. The choice of an elegant matte finish for the tiles is a great way to maintain that clean and polished look, while also adding some contrast that makes the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also go well with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the design 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, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold design which could be intimidating in other areas of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that works with the industrial décor in the room.

Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that have the look of brick or a similar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant feel to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide the brick surround of the wall of a fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and personality 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 pick something striking.

If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect 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 with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.

White is a popular shade for fireplaces and walls. However the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Do they have the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker shade? If the latter, pick the color that is well-matched to keep the look well-balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Clean the mantel, taking out any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or local roller. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace, as well as 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 fireplace.

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