How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are many different models available, however, so it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

The output of heat, the controls, and the design are just a few of the important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help pick the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is fresh and striking making the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace tools set and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few changes in color.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple, yet effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows to create a cohesive look. If you want a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible option you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents 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.

When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all building codes to ensure security.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can take over the appearance of a fireplace. The owners of this living room have created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes as well as natural patina that increases their durability.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to make into a fireplace. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize 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 accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, as well as an image of a landscape 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 for an antique look. They can also be painted for an updated look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas, ventless or free standing electric fireplaces fireplace or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent a mantel without a fire burning.

Whichever method you decide to use to mount your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are sold at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor style from modern to traditional. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles also work well with a variety of texture choices for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles feature an elegant and glossy surface that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold design which could be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines give this room a sophisticated and fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial decor in this space.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to update the look without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat-resistant, making them safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring a sense of elegance to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for cracks, gouges, and nicks. If the dents aren't enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt clean the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand fireplace tools set out. For inspiration, look at the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they have the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the look balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clean the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will hold up well to the heat generated by the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.