How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will provide your living space with an attractive focal feature. There are many different models available, however, so it is important to find one that meets your needs.

The heat output, controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is fresh and striking, making the hearth an important central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the appearance of the façade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, enhancing the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to form a simple, yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements like the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try a paneled material like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and conforms to all national and local codes.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process that increases their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to make into a fireplace. For example the earthy hue of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel, and electric fireplace they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the 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 feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.

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

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any style, whether modern or traditional. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some color to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 patterned tile gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary 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 a great spot to test the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes are arranged as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial décor electric fireplace in the room.

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

If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat, making them suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add an elegant feel to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.

While white is a popular color for free standing electric fireplaces and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. To get ideas, look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you choose the latter option, select one that blends well with the other hues 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 were hung over the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or around it. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the appearance.