Marti Autry

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models available however, it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The most significant features are the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you select the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new design is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. A few changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to create a simple yet effective method of framing a fireplace surround made of tile. To bring the design together pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, like thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add personality to a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, 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 a fireplace surround. It is available in different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox, and the surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all national and local building codes to ensure safety.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other items, but too many can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. For this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as an accent to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, as well as a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any space. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique look. They can also be painted to give a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

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

No matter which method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of bioethanol fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products can be found at a 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 brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style, whether contemporary or traditional. The choice of a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the tabletop fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be used with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that lends the space an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 patterned tile gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is a great spot to play around with a bold design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, and the dark brown hue creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial style of this space.

Tiles that look like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. Many of these options are resistant to heat, making them safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add elegance to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide the brick surround of the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to add warmth and character. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for cracks, gouges, and scratches. If the dents are small enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To remove any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a favorite color for walls and ethanol fireplaces shop (https://total-bookmark.com). However the right shade will make your mantel really stand fireplaces wooden out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they have the same shade as your mantel or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If so, select an appropriate color to keep the room looking balanced.

Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clear off the mantel and remove any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is empty and clean, wipe it with a a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has built up.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace, as well as other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be heavy in color and Fireplaces wooden weight. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you choose a light color for your mantel, you can pair it with a work of art in earthy tones or a large mirror to complete the look.