How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that suits your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the design are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you select the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace makeover. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is vibrant and striking making this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few minor changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective, way to frame your fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements such as the thick casing around doors and windows to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same method 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 for a 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-look brick can also be used to enhance a traditional country style.

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

Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other objects. However having too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this living room have created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They have the typical marks of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes and natural patinas that increase their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be left as is or stained to complement your current decor or distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give modern appearance or covered with faux finishes, such as marbled paint or rust.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

Whatever method you choose to put in your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, modern or traditional. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the entire look 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 patterned tile gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an ideal place to test out a bold pattern that might be a bit intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial style of the room.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick but is much simpler to clean and electric Firesuite (learn more about Blog Kids) maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. These options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces and can stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding the look of a room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and personality to the space. If you decide to match it to the room's color scheme or go for something bold or bold, a new color can make your ethanol fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or dust.

While white is a popular color for fireplaces and walls, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they have the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker shade? If the latter, wooden Fireplaces pick an appropriate color to keep the room looking balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace suites wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.