How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can make your living space an eye-catching focal point. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.
The output of heat, the controls and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you aren't familiar with these features, it's recommended to consult an expert to help pick the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its old-fashioned stone surround and bland walls. The new look is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows to create a cohesive look. If you want a more high-end, elegant look, use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Accent walls with wainscoting are an extremely popular way to add personality to a room. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you're planning to incorporate brick into your
fireplace suite design ensure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all construction codes for security.
Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things, but too many can make a mess of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design 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 house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that improves their longevity.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as marbled paint or rust.
The wooden beams can be used as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas,
electric fire or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.
Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the potential effects of fire. Both types of materials can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are sold at most stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a
fireplace suite. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether modern or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflects light beautifully 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 gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home The fireplace is the perfect place to test the bold style. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial décor in the room.
Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update the look without spending a fortune. A lot of these options are heat-resistant which means they are suitable for use in the fireplace and able to stick to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different colour to add warmth and personality. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If the mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust.
While white is a popular choice for
Fireplaces electric and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Do they have the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the look balanced.
Cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clean the mantel and remove any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared, wipe it down with the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has built up.
Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will hold up well to the heat generated by the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you opt for a light shade for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the look.