How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.

Some of the most important features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's best to hire a professional to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its stale stone surround and dull walls. The new look is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few changes in color.

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

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace inserts with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country-style decor.

When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround reaches 8 to 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 things, but too many can overwhelm the look of a ethanol fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance make a great fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes, plus natural patina that increases their durability.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to make into a tabletop fireplace. For instance the earthy hue of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround creates an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections emphasize a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any space. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

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

No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, make sure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of bioethanol fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces wooden. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor style from modern to traditional. Selecting matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety of textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening up the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate a fireplace's design. 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 a handcrafted appeal that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace, and the contemporary style of the room.

If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home The fireplace is the perfect place to test an imposing design. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue gives this space an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial style.

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

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed to the existing wall. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add style to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. 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. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If you choose the latter, choose the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Protect the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace and any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in color. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the look.