How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that suits your needs.

The heat output, the controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is recommended to consult a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace inserts surround and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a major fireplace revamp. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it and contrast with the gray shelves below. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple yet effective, method to frame your fireplace insert surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, like the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.

Accent walls with wainscoting are an extremely popular way to add the look of rooms. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that can fit in with more traditional country decor.

When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and meets all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other items However, too many shelves could make a mess of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels to create a rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes as well as a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood fireplace give it a rustic look, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams can give a unique appearance to any room. They can be left as-is or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique look. They can also be painted for an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as marbled or rust paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a fire burning. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a burning fire.

Whichever method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products can be found at most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any style of decor from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be combined with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also go well with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a patterns in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold design that could be intimidating in other parts of your home. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial decor in the room.

Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the look without costing you a fortune. A majority of these options are resistant to heat which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective way to hide the brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. Painting the mantel a different hue also adds warmth and character to the space. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the color scheme of your room or go for something bold or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

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

White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. But, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For inspiration, look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they use the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If the latter, pick the color that is well-matched to keep the look well-balanced.

Cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is empty and clean, wipe it with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will hold up well to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.