The Ultimate Guide To Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many different models on the market but it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.
Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to assist you in choosing the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room required an overhaul to the ethanol fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is vibrant and striking making the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace inserts update the exterior, while the gray shelves below are a contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. To connect the look select a trim design to contrast or match the other trim elements such as thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking for an elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking appearance.
Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with more traditional country decor.
If you're planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace ensure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and conforms to all local and national codes.
Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of the fireplace. For this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances 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 a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been destroyed. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give an authentic look. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patina that increases their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. The rustic tone of pine used to create this traditional living room surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams will add a unique touch to any room. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes, such as marbled paint or rust.
The wooden beams can serve as the central element of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.
Whatever method of installation you decide to use be sure that your wood or steel beams are properly 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 with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any style, whether contemporary or traditional. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look, while also adding some contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the space a rustic, classic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood. marble fireplace-look tile is a classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening up the room.
The proper tile pattern can improve the entire look 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 modern organic style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with design in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold design that might be intimidating in other parts of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial style of the room.
Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat resistant and therefore safe for Fireplaces Shop and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding elegance to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide a brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or pick something bold.
If your mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and scratches. If the dents aren't enough to handle, 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 rough it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris wipe the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular color for Cheap Fireplaces and walls, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they use the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you choose the latter, choose one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you begin painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are on or within the fireplace. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has accumulated.
Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.
While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall it can be quite heavy and dark in color. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.