How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will provide your living space with an eye-catching focal point. There are a variety of models available so you need to pick one that meets your requirements.

The output of heat, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these elements, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull Stone Fireplaces fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace makeover. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and eye-catching making this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasted with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective method of framing a fireplace surround made of tile. To connect the look pick a trim style to contrast or match the other trim elements like thick casings around doors and windows. If you want an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same method 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 use to create a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and meets all national and local codes.

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes and a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. The natural tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the room.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can serve as the central point of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without burning fire.

No matter which method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or marble Fireplace commercial bioethanol fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individualized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also go well with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 patterned tile gives an artistic look to the space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is a great place to test 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 give this room a sophisticated and lively energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color creates an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial style of this room.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick but is much simpler to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for Fireplace Electric fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add elegance to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted in a different color to add warmth and personality. 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 ethanol fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to be able to handle then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. To remove any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular color for fireplaces and walls The right shade can make your mantel stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the space looking balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, taking out any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove 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 is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace, and 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 part of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be quite heavy in color and weight. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of artwork or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.