How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall fires can be your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are many different designs available but it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.

Some of the most important features include the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these elements, it's best to hire an expert to help choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. To bring the design together select a trim design to contrast with or complement your other trim elements such as thick casing around doors and windows. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add the look of a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in various 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 enhance a traditional country style.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace ensure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and complies with all codes of the local and national level.

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

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls and other buildings that were destroyed. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that improves their longevity.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes like marbled or rust paint.

The wooden beams can serve as the central element of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fire fireplace, or be integrated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Regardless of which method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer ethonal fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in a wide 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 up the space while blending with any style of decor from traditional to modern. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can also be used with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 patterned tile adds an artistic look to the space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to test the bold style. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial style of this space.

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

If you're not ready to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat resistant, making them safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option for adding elegance to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal way to hide the brick surround of a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and character to the space. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or pick something striking.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or dust.

While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they have the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are on or within the fireplace inserts. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

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