How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall can be your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are many models available and you must pick one that meets your requirements.
Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you select the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room required an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is bright and eye-catching, making the hearth an important central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few color changes can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to make a simple but effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To connect the look select a trim design to contrast or match the other trim elements like thick casings around doors and windows. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, instead, consider a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a dramatic look.
Another non-combustible material that you can create a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with a more traditional, country style.
If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all national and local building codes to ensure safety.
Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this family room designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that were removed. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide planks of 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.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. For example the earthy hue of pine that highlights the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's 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 wood beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match your existing decor or distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.
Whichever method you choose to put in your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its design instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether traditional or modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to maintain that clean and polished look, while adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety of textures for an individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.
The proper tile pattern can improve the entire look 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 on 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're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with a bold design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but lively energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color gives this space an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.
Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without spending a fortune. A lot of these options are heat-resistant and therefore safe for Fireplaces Electric and able to adhere to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and personality to the space. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or go for something bold or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. However the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter option, select a color that will work well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that might have been placed over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has built up.
Apply a basecoat with the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and 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 color, consider pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.