How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models on the market however, it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.
The output of heat, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you’re unfamiliar with these features, it’s recommended to hire an expert to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace’s facade modernize it while contrasting with the gray shelves below. The fireplace’s facade is accentuated by a few color changes.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to form a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, like thick casing around windows and doors. If you prefer a more high-end, elegant style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to enhance a traditional country style.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all national and local construction codes for safety.
Open shelving can be excellent for storing books and other things. However, too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that increases their longevity.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to accent a mantel without a ethanol fire burning.
No matter which method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while blending with any decor style, from traditional to modern. The choice of an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that lends the space an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles 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 patterned tile adds the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to play around with an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here’s an alternative) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color provides this space with a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.
Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, but is much easier to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace’s surround without costing you a dime. A majority of these options are heat-resistant and therefore safe for fireplaces and able to stick to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different colour to add warmth and character. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.
If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents aren’t large enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty, and Wood fireplaces let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces wood. However the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Do they have the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If the latter, pick the color that is well-matched to keep the look balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.
Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel can be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick can be heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large mirror to complement the overall look.