How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will provide your living space with an eye-catching focal area. There are numerous models to choose from so you need to pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The output of heat, the controls, and the design are just a few of the important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is best to hire a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a dramatic fireplace overhaul. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple, yet effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking to create an elegant, luxurious style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, choose to use dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding character to a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible option you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that can fit in with a more traditional, country decor.

If you are incorporating brick in a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the brick you select is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other items. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed 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 wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical markings of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace suites. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden fireplaces beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as is or stained to complement the decor of your home, 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 such as marbled paint or rust.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

No matter which method you decide to use to mount your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces wooden. Its shape instantly brightens the space while complementing any decor style from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with various textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the space 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 look to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve the look 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 adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to play around with the bold style. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial style of this room.

Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to be bonded to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Paint the mantel in a different color also adds warmth and character to the space. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and scratches. If the dents aren't enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. To remove any dirt or debris clean the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular color for Fireplaces wood and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for ideas. Do they have the same shade as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker hue? If you opt for the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are located on or within the fireplace. When the mantel is clean and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main body 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. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you opt for a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a piece art with earthy tones or a large mirror to complete the overall look.