How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of models available so you need to pick one that meets your requirements.

The most significant features include the output of heat along with the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you select the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to form a simple, yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that is in contrast with or matches the other trim elements, such as the thick casing around windows and doors to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse-style.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add character to rooms. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards instead, consider a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in various styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with a more traditional, country-style decor.

If you are incorporating brick in a fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other objects. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their longevity.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for wood pieces that you can transform into a mantel. The natural tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates the feeling of a cozy country getaway. Its knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look, or stone fireplaces they can be covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbled paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the central point of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, electric fireplaces or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel, without burning bioethanol fire.

Whatever method of installation you choose ensure that your wood or steel beams are properly protected from the potential effects of fire. Both materials can be hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However, they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor style, from traditional to modern. The choice of a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some contrast that makes the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the space.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 on the tile gives the entire room a an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is a great place to play around with a bold design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color gives this space a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without spending a fortune. A lot of these options are heat-resistant which means they are safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide a brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and character to the room. Whether you choose to match it to the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking, a new paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood fireplaces putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

White is a popular shade for fireplaces and walls. But, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases around your home for ideas. Do they use the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the look balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that may have been hung over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are on or within the fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.