How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are a variety of models available and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The most significant features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you aren't familiar with these elements, it's best to hire an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its outdated stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and attractive and makes this hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective way to frame your fireplace surrounds surround. Choose a trim style that is in contrast with or matches your other trim elements for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

When you incorporate brick in a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all local and national construction codes for safety.

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other things. However, too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the 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 is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give an authentic look. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that increases their longevity.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room surround and mantel creates an intimate country retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that borders the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces and electric fireplace heater a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams will bring a unique look to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give a more contemporary appearance or 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 set above a freestanding gas or electric fireplace heater or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without burning fire.

No matter which method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can be fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while blending with any style of decor, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room an authentic, classic look. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and electric fireplace heater brightens 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 adds the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold design that might be intimidating in other parts of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this room.

Tile that looks like brick or other familiar materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat-resistant, making them safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to cover the brick surround of a wall mounted electric fireplace-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. To remove any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. However, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker shade? If you choose the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are located on or around it. After the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall it can be heavy and dark in hue. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color can make it look brighter and more inviting for guests. If you decide to choose a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the overall look.