How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to assist you in choosing the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. The new look is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around windows and doors, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking to create an elegant, luxurious style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can opt for dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace suite. Instead of using plank boards, you can try a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.

Another non-combustible option you can create a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and conforms to all local and national codes.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things, but too many can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The owners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes and natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match the decor of your home or distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can serve as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.

No matter which method of installation you choose be sure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of electric fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are available 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 design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, contemporary or traditional. The choice of an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles feature an elegant and glossy surface that reflects light beautifully and brightens the room.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 patterned tile gives the entire room a the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace with the overall modern design of the room.

If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to play around with the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The dark brown color creates an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial style.

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

If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without spending a fortune. A majority of these options are heat resistant, making them suitable for use in the ethanol fireplace and able to adhere to the existing wall. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different colour to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white fireplace (socialmediatotal.com) is a popular color for fireplaces and walls, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you decide to go with the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on your brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat 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 from the fireplace, as well as other objects 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 striking feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in hue. The mantel painted with an even or light color will make it appear more lively and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror above it to balance the appearance.