How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from so you need to pick one that meets your requirements.
Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is vibrant and eye-catching and makes the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements the other trim elements, like the thick casing around windows and doors, to tie the look together. If you prefer a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Another non-combustible material that you can use to build a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country style.
If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace ensure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all construction codes for safety.
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, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls, and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They feature the usual barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process which increases their longevity.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic coziness of this space.
Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as is or stained to complement your existing decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes like marbled or rust paint.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without the need for a fire. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without burning fire.
No matter which method of installation you choose, make sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the potential effects of fire. Both types of material can become brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are sold at a variety of stores for home improvement.
white fireplace Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor style from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature an elegant and glossy surface that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.
The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 patterned tile gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold style that might be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.
Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about using a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat resistant which means they are safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add style to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different color to add warmth and character. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or pick something striking.
If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents are small enough to be able to handle, fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking balanced.
Before you begin painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you choose a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large mirror to complete the look.