How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace will make your living space an eye-catching focal area. There are numerous models on the market but it is important to find one that meets your needs.
The most significant features include the output of heat along with the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these elements, it's recommended to consult an expert to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room required a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its stale stone surround and dull walls. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast with or complement the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled material like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country decor.
If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and conforms to all national and local codes.
Open shelving is a great way to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could make a mess of a fireplace. The owners of this family room created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overpowering open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patinas that increase their durability.
Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic charm of the room.
Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.
The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal point of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a
freestanding fireplace gas or ventless or
electric fires fire (
Yatesrelates.com) fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.
Whatever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from 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 in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any decor, contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is perfect to create a polished and sleek appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customized by a variety of textures to create an individualized look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that provides a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate the entire look of the
fireplace insert. 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 gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk on a patterns in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold style that could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The dark brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial style.
Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to refresh the appearance without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for
fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant look to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and personality to the room. If you decide to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking and striking, a fresh paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't enough to handle then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris clean the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If you choose the latter option, select one that blends well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Before you begin painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up well to the heat from 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 onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.
While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you choose a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a piece art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the overall look.
