How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will provide your living space with an attractive focal point. There are many different models available, however, so it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

The output of heat, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. The new look is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the appearance of the façade and the shelves in gray below contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple yet effective, way to frame the fireplace surround. To connect the look, choose a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, like thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add personality to rooms. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It comes in various styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to enhance a traditional country style.

If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all national and local construction codes for safety.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things, but too many can make a mess of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order 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 a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other buildings that have been demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood fireplaces markings, such as mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy color of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting over the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the room.

Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.

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

Whatever method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the possible effects of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that lends the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up 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 gives the entire room a an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk with patterns in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold pattern which could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.

Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick but is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces and can be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant look to any living space, and will look great with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and personality to the room. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the room's color scheme or opt for something more striking, a new paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. To remove any debris or dirt wipe the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a favorite color for fireplaces electric wood (right here on Ushja) and walls. However the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, removing any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to balance out the overall look.