How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many models available and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls created a living space that was in need of a dramatic fireplace makeover. With a few design tweaks, the new look is fresh and striking making the hearth an important central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the appearance of the façade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.

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

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, instead, consider using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you're planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and meets all national and local codes.

Open shelving is a great way to organize books and other items however, too many shelves can take over the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are perfect for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam carries with it its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes and natural patinas that increase their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace suites wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fire fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

No matter which method of installation you choose be sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the consequences of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are sold at most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor from modern to traditional. The choice of a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up 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 patterned tile adds a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home The fireplace is a great place to experiment with an imposing design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial style.

Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without costing you a fortune. A majority of these options are heat resistant and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is to give it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted in a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the overall color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

If the mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks and scratches. If the dents are small enough to handle then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

White is a favorite color for fireplaces and walls. However the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they have the same color as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you opt for the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that were hung above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has built up.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick can be quite heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with an even or light color can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you choose to paint it a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or fireplaces Wooden a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.