How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will provide your living space with an attractive focal area. There are many different models available however, 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're not aware of these elements, it's best to hire an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a major fireplace makeover. The new design is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements for example, the thick casing around windows and doors, to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for a more elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add personality to the interior of a room. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

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

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other items. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls, and other buildings that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process which increases 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 mantel and surround evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to match your current decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can serve as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.

No matter which method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are available at most home improvement stores.

white fireplace Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces shop. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any decor, traditional or modern. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and Cheap Fireplaces clean appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be combined with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also go well with natural materials, such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the sunlight and brightening 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 of the tile gives the whole space an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold pattern that might be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color provides this space with an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.

Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about using a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without spending a fortune. Many of these options are resistant to heat which means they are safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is made of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.

White is a popular shade for ethanol fireplaces and walls. However the right shade can make your mantel really stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Do they have the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker hue? If you choose the latter, choose one that blends well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel is empty and clean, wipe it with a a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

The brick can be heavy in both weight and color. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you choose a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to balance out the overall look.