How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market, however, so it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.

The output of heat, the controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is best to hire a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is vibrant and striking and makes the hearth an important central feature in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that is in contrast with or matches the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows, to tie the look together. If you want a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding character to a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.

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

If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all building codes to ensure safety.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things However, too many shelves could take over the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, bio-ethanol fireplaces or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process which increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. For example the earthy hue of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace's wall mounted fireplace. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic coziness of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

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

Whatever method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both types of material can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products can be found at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any style of decor from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening up the space.

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 pattern of the tile provides 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 taking a pattern risk in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to test a bold design. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and lively energy. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes for a stimulating layout, and the dark brown hue creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial décor in this room.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces and can stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding the look of a room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is with fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to give it a more cosy and spirited look. 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 striking.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.

White is a popular shade for walls and bio-ethanol Fireplaces. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. To get ideas, take a look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the space looking well-balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Clean the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are on or within it. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will hold up well to the heat generated by the fireplace and any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, match it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to complement the appearance.