How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall will make your living space an eye-catching focal feature. There are many different models available however, it is crucial to choose one that will meet your requirements.
The heat output, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you choose the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to make a simple but effective method of framing a fireplace surround made of tile. To tie the look together pick a trim style to match or contrast with your other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards instead, consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.
Another non-combustible material you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to complement a traditional country decor.
When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace 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 option to organize books and other items, but too many can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overpowering open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been removed. Each beam carries with it its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks to give an authentic look. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets as well as natural patina that increases their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. The natural tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room surround and mantel creates 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 which is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any room. They can be left as is or stained to match your existing decor or cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give a more contemporary appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.
Whatever method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available at most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. 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. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.
The proper tile pattern can improve 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 pattern of the tile gives the entire room a 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 are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The dark brown color creates an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.
Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.
If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. Many of these options are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring a sense of elegance to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is with fresh coats of paint. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the room. Whether you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking and striking, a fresh paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or dust.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces shop. However the right shade can make your mantel really stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, pick an appropriate color to keep the space looking balanced.
Make sure you cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel and remove any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace's wall.
The brick can be quite heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, match it with a work of art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the look.