How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are many different designs available but it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.

The heat output, the controls, and the design are among 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

A worn-out stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace revamp. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to match or contrast with the other trim elements, like thick casing around windows and doors. If you prefer a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking look.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace 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. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you're planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace electric design ensure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all local and national building codes to ensure safety.

Open shelving is a great option to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The owners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels to create a rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that increases their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace suite. For instance the earthy color of pine that accents this traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and complement 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 inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any space. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without the need for a fire. They can be used to illuminate the mantel, without burning fire.

Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, whether contemporary or traditional. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that neat and polished look, fires while also adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that lends the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate the entire look of the 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 adds a unique a handcrafted appeal that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to test a bold design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the dark brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial décor in the room.

Tiles that look like brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much simpler 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 heat-resistant and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted a different color to add warmth and character. Whether you choose to match it with the decor's color scheme or opt for something more striking and striking, a fresh paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If your mantel is made of wood fireplace, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

White is a popular shade for fireplaces wood (speaking of) and walls. But, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they use the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the room looking balanced.

Protect the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, match it with a work of art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the look.