How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall can be your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of designs available however, it is essential to choose one that meets your needs.
Some of the most important features include the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you aren’t familiar with these aspects, it is best to hire an expert to help select the best model.
Molded Squares
A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace suites mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you’re looking for an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.
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. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you are incorporating brick in a fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all local and national building codes to ensure safety.
Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items, but too many can take over the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels to create a rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes as well as natural patinas that increase their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for wood pieces that you can transform into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for 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’s wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the room.
Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be left as is or stained to match the decor of your home or carved and distressed for an antique look. They can also be painted for modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like marbled or rust paint.
The wooden beams can be used as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric firesuite fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.
No matter which method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the consequences of fire. Both materials can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available at most home improvement shops.
White fireplace Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individual appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. marble fireplace-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.
The proper tile pattern can enhance the look 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 of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you’re unsure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold style that could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here’s an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial style of this room.
Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as 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 applying a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without spending a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to stick to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant feel to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different color to add warmth and character. Whether you choose to match it to the decor’s color scheme or opt for something striking or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty, if they’re small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.
While white fireplace is a popular option for walls and fireplaces The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. To get ideas, examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you begin painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall fires.
The brick can be heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.