How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from so you need to pick one that suits your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the design are some of the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is recommended to consult a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its old-fashioned stone fireplaces surround and dull walls. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to create a simple, yet effective method of framing a tile fireplace surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements like thick casing around windows and doors. If you want an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards instead, consider a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all local and national building codes to ensure security.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other items however, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. The owners of this living room have created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood fireplace can be used as a feature in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that improves their longevity.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accents the traditional living room mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace stove. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

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

The wooden beams can be used as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fire fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.

Whatever method of installation you choose, make sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. The choice of matte finishes for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customized by a variety of textures to create an individual look. stone fireplaces-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the room an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 adds the appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home the fireplace is a great spot to test the bold style. It can be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the dark brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial décor in this space.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat resistant, making them safe for cheap fireplaces (Git.ld.plazi.org) and able to adhere to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add 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 most effective way to disguise its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to add warmth and character. If you decide to match it with the room's color scheme or opt for something striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and scratches. Fill in the dents with 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 before painting. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or dust.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls but the right color can make your mantel stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for ideas. Do they have the same shade as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker shade? If the latter, pick an appropriate color to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within it. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has accumulated.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat of the fireplace and any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.