How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall mount fireplace can create your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of models available however, it is crucial to choose one that will meet your requirements.

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

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and boring walls. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple, yet efficient way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements such as the thick casing around windows and doors, to create a cohesive look. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.

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

Another non-combustible material you can use to build the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country decor.

When incorporating brick in a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other things. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are perfect for a fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other structures that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes and a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. For example the earthy color of pine that accents this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall electric fireplace sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any space. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be placed over a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use ensure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the potential effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold at a variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor choice, from traditional to modern. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace pop.

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

The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 a handcrafted look to the space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home The fireplace is the perfect place to test the bold style. It can be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and fireplaces the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial style of the room.

Tiles that look like brick or other common materials is another way to make an impact with your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. Many of these options are heat-resistant and therefore safe for fireplaces and able to stick to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding style to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. Painting the mantel a different hue also adds warmth and character to the room. Whether you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or go for something bold, a new paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be able to handle then fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular color for fireplaces and walls, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you choose the latter option, select one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared, wipe it down with an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, and any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.