How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are many models available so you need to pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The most significant features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these aspects, it is recommended to consult an expert to help select the best model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplaces fireplace surround and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the tabletop fireplace (published on Iowa Bookmarks) modernizes the facade, while the gray shelves below contrast. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, adding the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To connect the look select a trim design to contrast with or complement the other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you're looking for 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.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding character to rooms. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that could be a good fit with more traditional country decor.

If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all local and national building codes to ensure safety.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other things. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of the fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They feature the usual barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that increases their longevity.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. For instance the earthy color of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the room.

Repurposed wooden beams will add a unique touch to any space. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted to give a more contemporary appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbled paint.

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

Whichever method you choose to put in your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from 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 are available at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and complements any style, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble fireplaces-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the space.

The proper tile pattern can improve the entire design 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 the appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a design in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold style which could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color provides this space with an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another popular material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the look without costing you a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to hide the brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. Whether you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or opt for something striking or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is made of wood, 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 period recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. To get rid of any debris or dirt, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls but the right color can make your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they have the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter hue? If you opt for the latter option, select the color that works well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that were hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or around it. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

While brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall it can be heavy and dark in hue. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the look.