How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models on the market, however, so it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.
The heat output, controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's recommended to consult an expert to help pick the right model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. With a few design tweaks the new look is fresh and attractive and makes the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the exterior and the shelves in gray below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color also help the facade stand out from the wall, which enhances the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements the other trim elements, such as 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 around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of 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 method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all local and national construction codes for security.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls and other buildings that were destroyed. Each beam has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens or with wide plank paneling to create a rustic look. They feature the usual barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process which increases their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. The natural tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting above the mantel add to the rustic coziness of this space.
Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match your existing decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel, without burning fire.
Regardless of which method of installation you choose be sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor, traditional or modern. The choice of matte finishes for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individual appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflects light beautifully and enhances the space.
The perfect tile pattern can enhance the entire 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 adds a unique an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.
If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home The fireplace is a great place to experiment with an imposing design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes, creating a lively layout. The dark brown color provides this space with an inviting and warm aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.
Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to select tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick but is much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to change the look without costing you a fortune. Many of these options are heat resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant look to any living space and will look great with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted in a different colour to add warmth and character. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.
If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. To get ideas, look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the look well-balanced.
Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, removing 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 on or around the fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.
While the brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel in an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. 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 create a balanced look.