How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market however, it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.

The most significant features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not aware of these elements, it's best to seek out a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. The new design is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame the 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 an elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add the look of the interior of a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, instead, consider using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking look.

Another non-combustible option you can use to create the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all national and local building codes for safety.

Open shelving is a great option to store books and other things However, too many shelves could make a mess of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace without overpowering 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 home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that were removed. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patinas that increase their durability.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or white Fireplace rust.

The wooden beams can be used as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without any fire burning. They can be used to highlight the mantel without burning fire.

Whichever method you choose to put in your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor style from modern to traditional. The matte finish is perfect to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space a rustic, classic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Another timeless option is marble fireplaces-look tiles, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 on the tile gives the entire room a the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold pattern that might be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but lively energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, and the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this space.

Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. Many of these options are resistant to heat which means they are suitable for use in the fireplace and able to stick to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide a brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different hue to add warmth and character. If you decide to match it to the decor's color scheme or opt for something striking or bold, a new color will make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

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 amount of time recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or dust.

While white fireplace is a popular color for walls and fireplaces electric, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you opt for the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Protect the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or around it. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has accumulated.

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

While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall it can be heavy and dark in shade. The mantel painted with an even or light color can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you opt for a light shade for your mantel, match it with a piece of art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the look.