How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will provide your living space with an eye-catching focal feature. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that suits your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is recommended to consult a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and bland walls left this living space in need of a major fireplace overhaul. The new design is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined 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, like the thick casing around doors and windows, to tie the look together. If you prefer a more high-end, elegant style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a popular way to add character any room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material you can use to create a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with a more traditional, country-style decor.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and conforms to all national and local codes.

Open shelving is a great option to organize books and other items, but too many can make a mess of the fireplace. For this family room homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design of the new fireplace stove without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of 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 that improves their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy hue of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. 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 wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of this space.

Repurposed wooden fireplaces beams can give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.

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

Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can be brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are available in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether traditional or modern. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while also adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a very 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 timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.

The proper tile pattern can improve the entire design 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 patterned tile gives the entire room a a handcrafted appeal that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is a great place to test the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown hue creates an inviting, warm look that is perfect for industrial decor.

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

If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces and can stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding style to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to add warmth and character. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color freestanding fireplace scheme of the room or pick something bold.

If the mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be able to handle, fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris, wipe down the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular color for Electric Firesuite walls and fireplaces The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Do they have the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker shade? If you choose the latter option, select the color that works well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Protect the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around your brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.

While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in hue. Painting the mantel in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, you can pair it with a work of art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the overall look.