How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market, however, so it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.

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

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. The new style is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace insert update the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to form a simple, yet effective, way to frame your fireplace surround. To tie the look together, choose a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements, like thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking for a more high-end, elegant style, choose a fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding personality to a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible material you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox, and the surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and meets all local and national codes.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other items. However having too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

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

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to make into a fireplace. For example, the earthy shade of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that borders the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.

Regardless of which method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or electric Firesuite wood beams are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However, they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as a freestanding fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that lends the space a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 provides an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with design in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold pattern that could be intimidating in other parts of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue provides this space with 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 with your fireplace. 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 make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces shop and can be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant look to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is to give it an update of the paint. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and character to the space. Whether you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. To remove any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they use the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter hue? If you choose the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, taking out any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has built up.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace electric wall.

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you choose a light shade for your mantel, Ethanol Fire pair it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to balance out the appearance.