How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many different models on the market but it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The heat output, the controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these elements, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade and the shelves in gray below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective, way to frame the fireplace surround. To connect the look select a trim design to contrast or match your other trim elements like thick casings around doors and windows. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective way to add character to any 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-andgroove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It comes in various styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a classic option for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you are incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all national and local construction codes for security.

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give an authentic look. They have the typical marks of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes, plus natural patinas that increase their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. The natural tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape-themed painting over the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wood beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as is or stained to match your existing decor or carved and distressed for an antique look. They can also be painted for an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.

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

Whatever method of installation you choose ensure that your wood or steel beams are properly protected from the consequences of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial ethonal fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any style of decor from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individualized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room a rustic, classic feel. They also go well with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve the design 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 pattern of the tile gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold style that might be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.

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

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to modernize your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. These tiles are resistant to heat, making them suitable for fireplaces and can stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add elegance to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective way to hide the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to add warmth and character. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it with the room's color scheme or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood fireplaces putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

While white fireplace is a popular color for walls and cheap fireplaces The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of 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 generated by the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main body of your fireplace wall.

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose an unassuming color for your mantel, you can pair it with a work of artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.