How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of designs available, however, so it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.
The heat output, the controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you’re not familiar with these features, it’s best to hire an expert to help select the best model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace inserts revamp. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade and the shelves in gray below contrast. The fireplace’s exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. To bring the design together select a trim design to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, like thick casing around windows and doors. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, you can use dentil trim instead.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same method can be used 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 classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with more traditional country style.
If you’re planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be 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. Make sure the material you select is safe and meets all codes of the local and national level.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the look of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been removed. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process that increases their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accents the traditional living room mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape painting over the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.
Repurposed wooden beams can add a unique touch to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match your current decor or distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.
The wooden beams can be used as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, electric firesuite or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without burning fire.
Whichever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material can be brittle and weaken in the face 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 sold 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 room and complements any style, whether traditional or modern. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.
If you’re not sure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold style that could be intimidating in other parts of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.
Tile that looks like brick or other common materials is another way to make an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.
If you’re not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace’s surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without costing you a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add the look of a room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted in a different colour to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or choose something bold.
If the mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for cracks, gouges, and nicks. If the dents aren’t large enough to be able to handle then fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.
White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. However the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker hue? If you choose the latter option, select a color that will work well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, taking out any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are located on or within it. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has built up.
Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will hold up well to the heat of the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall fires.
The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the look.