The Ultimate Guide To Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal area. There are many different designs available however, it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.

The most significant features include the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the tabletop fireplace and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.

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

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a common way to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace inserts with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to enhance a traditional country style.

When incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and meets all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other items, but too many can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden fireplaces beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a fully rustic design or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern fireplace look or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a fire burning. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without burning fire.

No matter which method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial bioethanol fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the space while blending with any decor choice from modern to traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individualized look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 a unique a handcrafted appeal that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace, and the overall modern design 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 design which could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines give this room a sophisticated and fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color provides this space with an inviting, warm look that is perfect for industrial decor.

Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to modernize your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. Many of these options are heat-resistant, making them safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant look to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. If you decide to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something striking or bold, a new color will make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If your mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for cracks, gouges, and scratches. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.

White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. To get ideas, examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is empty, wipe it down with an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main part of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.