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 numerous models on the market however, it is essential to choose one that meets your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat along with the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and dull walls. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. To bring the design together pick a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements such as thick casing around doors and windows. If you prefer a more high-end, elegant look, use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding personality to rooms. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to create an enclosure for your tabletop fireplace (weblink) is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. The rustic-look brick is an alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country-style decor.

When incorporating brick in a fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all local and national building codes to ensure safety.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can take over the appearance of a fireplace. For this family room homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They have the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes, plus natural patinas that increase their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for wood pieces that you can transform into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used to create this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, as well as a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as is or stained to match the decor of your home, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplaces fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.

Whatever method you choose to put in your beams, make sure 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 with a layer of ethanol 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 dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while blending with any style of decor from traditional to modern. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is a great way 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 a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also go well with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.

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 pattern of the tile gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace and the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a pattern risk in your home The fireplace is a great spot to play around with the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.

Tile that looks like brick or other common materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to update the look without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat resistant, making them safe for fireplaces electric and able to adhere to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space and will look great with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal way to hide a brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the overall color scheme of the room or pick something bold.

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

White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. But, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for ideas. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the look well-balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clean the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are located on or around the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade can make it look brighter and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose an unassuming color for your mantel, pair it with a work of art with earthy tones or a large mirror to complement the appearance.