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 many models available so you need to pick one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat along with the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to assist you in choosing the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room required a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is bright and attractive and makes the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the appeal 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. Choose a trim style that is in contrast with or matches your other trim elements like the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

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

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to enhance a traditional country style.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other items however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other buildings that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for wood pieces that you can transform into a mantel. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape painting over the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any room. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for 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.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without the need for a fire. 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 become hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the room and complements any style, whether contemporary or traditional. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is ideal to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood fireplace. Marble-look tile is a classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate the overall 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 of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is a great place to test the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color electric firesuite (new content from www.talktalkgolf.com) creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.

Tiles that resemble 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 clean and maintain.

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 costing you a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces electric as well as able to be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different hue to add warmth and personality. 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 striking.

If your mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. To remove any debris or dirt clean the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white fireplace is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other wood fireplaces trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, 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 heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the appearance.