How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will give your living room an eye-catching focal point. There are numerous models available but it is important to find one that meets your needs.

The heat output, the controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the exterior while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame your fireplace surround. To bring the design together select a trim design to contrast with or complement the other trim elements like thick casing around windows and doors. If you prefer 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.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding the look of the interior of a room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, instead, consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible option you can build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country style.

If you are incorporating brick into a fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all national and local building codes for safety.

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

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are perfect for electric fireplace wall a fireplace wall mount fireplaces. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patinas that increase their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. For instance the earthy color of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting over the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wood beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, Electric fireplace Wall or ventless fireplace or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.

No matter which method of installation you choose, make sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the possible effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor choice from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individual appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate the entire design of the 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 pattern on the tile adds a unique an artistic look that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the overall modern design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with the bold style. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.

Tile that looks like brick or other common materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace tools sets. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without spending a fortune. A lot of these options are resistant to heat, making them safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding the look of a room. It also works 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 with an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted in a different colour to add warmth and character. Whether you choose 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 your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or debris.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the look balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main body 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. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.