How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an eye-catching focal point. There are many different designs available however, it is essential to choose one that meets your needs.

The heat output, controls and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is fresh and attractive and makes the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace stove and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that is in contrast with or matches the other trim elements, like the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion 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 any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to enhance a traditional country style.

If you're planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace suites, make sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and conforms to all national and local codes.

Open shelving can be excellent for storing books and other items. However, too many shelves can obstruct the look of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and Fireplace - Linkedbookmarker.com - other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They feature the usual barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their longevity.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to make into a fireplace. For example the earthy hue of pine that accents the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. The 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. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a painting of a landscape over the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be left as is or stained to complement the decor of your home or distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can also be painted for a more contemporary appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes like marbled or rust paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without the need for a fire. They can be used to illuminate the mantel, without burning fire.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your wood or steel beams are properly protected from the potential effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. The choice of an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some contrast that makes the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individual appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening 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 adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace, and the overall modern design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold style that could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm look that works with the industrial decor in this space.

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 look as brick however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for electric fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint color can also add warmth and personality to the room. If you decide to match it with the decor's color scheme or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for Fireplaces Shop and walls, the right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you choose the latter, choose the color that works well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Protect the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clean the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are located on or around the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel can withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.

While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in color. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of artwork or a large mirror above it to balance the look.