How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many models available, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat, the appearance and the controls. If you aren't familiar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help select the best model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new look is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it and contrast with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. To bring the design together pick a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements, like thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, fireplaces Shop farmhouse look.

Accent walls with wainscoting are an extremely popular way to add character to rooms. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled material like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material you can use to create the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country style.

When incorporating brick in a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all building codes to ensure safety.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other items, but too many can make a mess of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. 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 has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They have the typical marks of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes and natural patina that increases their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for wood pieces that you can transform into a mantel. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can add a unique touch to any space. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.

No matter which method of installation you decide to use ensure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the possible effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial bioethanol fire-protectant sprays 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 brightens the room and complements any decor, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room an authentic, rustic look while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood fireplace. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.

The proper tile pattern can enhance the look of a 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 appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern fireplace organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with the bold style. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial style of the room.

Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.

If you're hesitant to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about using a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without breaking the bank. Many of these options are heat resistant and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative 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 an existing brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. Painting the mantel a different color 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 striking and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.

White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces electric. But the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Do they have the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or darker shade? If you choose the latter, choose one that blends well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean and clean, wipe it with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has built up.

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

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Painting the mantel in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you decide to choose an unassuming color for your mantel, match it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the look.