How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will make your living space an eye-catching focal area. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat along with the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace overhaul. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and attractive and makes this hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the Fireplace Stove modernize the exterior and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, like the thick casing around windows and doors, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding personality to rooms. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in different 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 add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

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

Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are perfect for a fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern fireplace kitchens or with wide plank paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process which increases their longevity.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for 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 type 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.

No matter which method of installation you choose be sure that your wood or steel beams are properly protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at a variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, modern or traditional. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of 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 very popular choice that gives the room a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the space.

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 an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home The fireplace is a great spot to test a bold design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The dark brown color provides this space with a warm, inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial style.

Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or a similar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. Many of these options are heat resistant which means they are suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different hue to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or pick something striking.

If your mantel is made of wood fireplace, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and scratches. If the dents aren't enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces The right shade can make your mantel stand out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they have the same shade as your mantel, or is it a lighter or Wood Fireplace darker hue? If you opt for the latter option, pick a color that will work well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clean the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. After the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.

While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall it can be heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, match it with a work of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the look.