How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from so you need to pick one that meets your requirements.

The heat output, the controls and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you select the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace overhaul. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is fresh and eye-catching and makes the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace insert mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior and the shelves in gray below contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple yet efficient way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To tie the look together, choose a trim style to contrast or match the other trim elements, like thick casing around windows and doors. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add personality to a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.

Another non-combustible material you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you're planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and your surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all national and local construction codes for safety.

Open shelving is a great option to store books and other items However, too many shelves could make a mess of the fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls and other buildings that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process that increases their longevity.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. The natural tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

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

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without any fire burning. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of bioethanol fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are sold at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any decor, whether modern or traditional. Selecting matte finishes for the tiles is a great way to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace stove stand out.

Hex tiles can be customized by a variety of textures to create an individualized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.

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

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a design in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold style that could be a bit intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown hue creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial style.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but has the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to refresh the appearance without costing you a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add 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 best way to disguise its appearance is to give it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted in 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 color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. 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 using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To remove any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Look at the other trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If you choose the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or around the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using 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 items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.