How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of models on the market however, it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is fresh and striking making the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. A few changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, enhancing the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to match or contrast with your other trim elements like thick casings around doors and windows. If you want a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding the look of a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.

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

When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and meets all local and national codes.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets and a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will add a unique touch to any space. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern look, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be placed over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning bioethanol fire.

Whatever method of installation you choose, make sure that your wood or steel beams are properly protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the space while complementing any decor style from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the room a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. marble fireplace-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate a fireplace's design. 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, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with patterns in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold style which could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown hue gives this space an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial style.

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

If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for Fireplaces Shop as well as able to be bonded to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option for adding elegance to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different hue to add warmth and character. Whether you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for fireplaces wooden and walls but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. To get ideas, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or around it. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main body of your fireplace wall.

While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you choose to paint it a light color, consider pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.