How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace will provide your living space with an attractive focal area. There are numerous models available but it is crucial to choose 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 aren't familiar with these aspects, it is recommended to consult an expert to help you choose the right 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 bright and eye-catching and makes this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade while the shelves that are gray below contrast. A few color changes can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to form a simple, yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you prefer an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.
Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding character to rooms. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards instead, consider a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking appearance.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in various styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose complies with all national and local building codes to ensure security.
Open shelving is a great option to store books and other things However, too many shelves could make a mess of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patina that increases their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for 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 borders the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape painting above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of the space.
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 appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.
The wooden beams can serve as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without any fire burning. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.
Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use ensure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are available in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space and is a perfect match for any decor choice from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customized by a variety of textures to create an individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the space a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.
The proper tile pattern can improve 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 on the tile adds a unique an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace, and the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you're unsure about putting your faith in a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold style that might be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color provides this space with an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.
Tile that looks like brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding elegance to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to hide the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and personality to the space. If you decide to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.
If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for cracks, gouges, and scratches. If the dents are small enough to be able to handle then fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
White is a popular color for fireplaces electric and walls. However the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Do they have the same hue as your mantel, or is it a darker or lighter hue? If you decide to go with the latter option, select one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you begin painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are located on or around it. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.
Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main body of your fireplace's wall.
The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose an unassuming color for your mantel, match it with a piece artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to complete the look.