How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an attractive focal area. There are many different models on the market, however, so it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The heat output, the controls, and the design are just a few of the important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to assist you in choosing the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a major fireplace overhaul. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to make a simple but effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add personality to rooms. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards 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 red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that can fit in with a more traditional, country style.

When you incorporate brick in a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all national and local building codes for security.

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. The homeowners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their longevity.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to make into a fireplace. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections of the wood 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 enhance the rustic ambiance of this space.

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

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a burning fire.

Whatever method you choose to put in your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial ethonal ethanol fire (learn here)-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are available in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that give the room an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials, such as wood fireplace. Another classic option is marble fireplaces-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the overall 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 overall modern design of the room.

If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home The fireplace is a great spot to play around with an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue creates an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. Painting the mantel a different hue also adds warmth and personality to the space. Whether you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or go for something bold, a new paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

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

White is a popular shade for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking well-balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on your brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, Fireplace Stove ensuring that your mantel will hold up well to the heat generated by the fireplace and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall it can be heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the overall look.