How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market but it is important to find one that meets your needs.

The heat output, the controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's recommended to consult an expert to help select the best model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace for sale revamp. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and attractive, making this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. To connect the look select a trim design to match or contrast with the other trim elements, like thick casing around doors and windows. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add the look of the interior of a room. The same technique 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 appearance.

Another non-combustible material you can use to build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

If you are incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose complies with all national and local construction codes for safety.

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can obstruct the look of a fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come 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 planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that improves their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to create the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams will add a unique touch to any room. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match your current decor or distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern look, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

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

No matter which method you decide to use to mount your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials can be hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at a variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the space while complementing any decor style, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve a fireplace's design. 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 gives the entire room a a handcrafted appeal that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace, and the overall modern design of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a pattern risk in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with a bold design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown hue provides this space with an inviting and warm aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.

Tile that looks like brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without costing you a dime. These options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for Buy fireplaces as well as able to adhere to existing surfaces. 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 downplay its appearance is with an update of the paint. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and personality to the space. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust.

While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces in my area but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they have the same shade as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you opt for the latter option, pick 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 the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or within the fireplace. When the mantel is clean and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer 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 a beautiful feature of a fireplace wall, it can be heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you choose a light color for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to complement the overall look.