How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are a variety of models available so you need to pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The most significant features include the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you select the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and bland walls created a living space that was in need of a major fireplace makeover. The new look is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple yet effective way to frame a tile fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements the other trim elements, such as the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you prefer a more high-end, elegant style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding character to a room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled option such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a classic option for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country style.

If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and complies with all national and local codes.

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other objects. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process that increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. For example the earthy hue of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections emphasize a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

The wooden beams can be used as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without any fire burning. They can be used to highlight the mantel, without burning fire.

Whichever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials can be hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space while complementing any decor style, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the design 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 an artistic look to the space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is a great place to play around with an imposing design. It can be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes, creating a lively layout. The dark brown color provides this space with a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial style.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This pattern-based 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 surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to update the look without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for cheap fireplaces as well as able to be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to add warmth and character. If you decide to match it to the room's color scheme or go for something bold, a new paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a popular color for fireplaces fireplaces and walls. But the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at 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 choose the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or around it. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you choose to paint it a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.