How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from so you need to pick one that suits your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is recommended to consult an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is vibrant and eye-catching and makes the hearth an important centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the shelves in gray below. A few color changes will also make the fireplace stand apart from the Wall Mounted Fireplace, adding the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add the look of rooms. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards instead, consider using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.

Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in various 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-style decor.

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

Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other objects. However, too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of a fireplace. For this family room homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets as well as natural patinas that increase their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to make into a fireplace. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a painting of a landscape above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams can add a unique touch to any room. They can be left as-is or stained to match your current decor, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern look 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 wall mounted fireplace fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Whichever method you decide to use to mount your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor style, from traditional to modern. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is a great way to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety of textures for an individual appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate a fireplace's design. 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, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to test the bold style. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color creates an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial style.

Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

If you're not ready to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about using a peel and stick tile to change the look without costing you a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces as well as able to adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add the look of a room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective way to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. If you decide to match it to the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking and striking, a fresh paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for cracks, gouges, and scratches. If the dents aren't enough to be able to handle then fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you choose the latter, Wall Mounted fireplace choose one that blends well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that were hung above the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick may be heavy in both weight and color. Painting the mantel an even or light color can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you choose a light color for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece of art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror Wall Mounted fireplace to complement the look.