It’s A Wall Fireplace Success Story You’ll Never Believe

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an attractive focal feature. There are numerous models available however, it is important to find one that meets your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you aren’t familiar with these features, it’s best to seek out a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to make the look more cohesive. If you’re looking for a more elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real 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 employed to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible option you can use to build a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all local and national construction codes for safety.

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created 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 that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes, plus a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic look, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace 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 will add a unique touch to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be 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 install your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any style, whether contemporary or traditional. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look, while also adding some color to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an authentic, rustic look while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the room.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 pattern of the tile gives the entire room a a handcrafted appeal that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a pattern risk in your home The fireplace is the perfect place to play around with an imposing design. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here’s an alternative) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial decor in this room.

Tile that looks like brick or other common materials is another way to make an impact with your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to hide the brick surround of the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted in a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

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 period recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces The right shade can make your mantel stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trims 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 room looking well-balanced.

Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clean the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace’s wall, it can be heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.