How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an attractive focal feature. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.
The output of heat, the controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you choose the best model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace revamp. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. A few changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple, yet effective method of framing a fireplace surround made of tile. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast with or complement 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 create the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.
Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add the look of rooms. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Another non-combustible option you can build a fireplace surround is brick, which comes 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 option that can fit in with a more traditional, country decor.
If you're planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and complies with all national and local codes.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other items. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the look of the 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
Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a fully rustic design or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that increases their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards 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's surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the space.
Repurposed wood beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be left as-is or stained to complement the decor of your home or cut and distressed to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.
Whichever method you choose to install your beams, be sure 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 fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve the look 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 gives the entire room a 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're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to play around with the bold style. It can be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial style of the room.
Tile that looks like brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to change the look without costing you a fortune. A majority of these options are heat resistant which means they are safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while also blending 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 by giving it an update of the paint. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and character to the room. 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 striking.
If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be able to handle, fill them with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they use the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker hue? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking balanced.
Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that were 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, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove 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 is long-lasting and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
The brick can be heavy in both weight and color. The mantel painted with an even or light 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 piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to balance out the overall look.