How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models on the market, however, so it is important to find one that meets your needs.

The most significant features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to seek out an expert to assist you in choosing the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is bright and eye-catching and makes the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, enhancing the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements like the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for an elegant, luxurious style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add the look of a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country decor.

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

Open shelving is a great option to organize books and other items however, too many shelves can take over the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets as well as natural patinas that increase their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden Fireplaces elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to complement your existing decor, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without burning fire.

Whatever method of installation you choose be sure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into 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 can be customized by a variety of textures to create a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflects light beautifully and enhances the space.

The proper tile pattern can improve the overall 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 whole space a handcrafted appeal that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the overall modern design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with an imposing design. It might 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 fit like cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial decor.

Tiles that look like brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without costing you a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces electric and can stick to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant feel to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to give it a more cosy and spirited look. Whether you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more 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 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 roughen it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris, wipe down the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

White is a popular shade for fireplaces shop and walls. However, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. Painting the mantel in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more welcoming to guests. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece of art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the overall look.