How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models available, however, so it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you choose the best model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace overhaul. The new style is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that is in contrast with or matches the other trim elements, like the thick casing around windows and doors, 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 give the appearance of a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add character to rooms. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all local and national construction codes for safety.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can take over the appearance of a fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. For example the earthy color of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape over the mantel add to the rustic charm of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams can give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can also be painted for modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as marbled or rust paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a fire burning. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without burning fire.

Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use ensure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can be hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any style, whether traditional or modern. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that lends the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the look of a 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 a handcrafted appeal that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a patterns in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold style that could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but fun energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color provides this space with an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial decor.

Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

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 appearance without spending a fortune. A lot of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for fireplaces shop and able to stick to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant look to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the room's color scheme or opt for something striking or bold, a new color will make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents are small enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. To remove any dirt or debris clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Look at the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Do they use the same shade as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If you choose the latter option, select one that blends well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will hold up well to the heat of the fireplace and any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror above it to balance the look.