How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models available but it is essential to choose one that meets your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to assist you in choosing the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasted with the gray shelves below. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces make a simple but efficient way to frame a tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, like the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding personality to a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.

Another non-combustible material you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with more traditional country style.

If you're 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 the surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all national and local building codes for security.

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

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own distinct 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 the typical markings of barn wood fireplace, like mortise and nail holes and natural patinas that increase 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 rustic tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will add a unique touch to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement your existing decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.

Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that 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 can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the space while blending with any style of decor, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the room an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening up the space.

The perfect tile pattern can enhance the overall design 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 of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, balancing the modern organic 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 play around with a bold design. It can be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that works with the industrial décor in the room.

Tile that looks like brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and can stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add style to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted in a different color to add warmth and personality. If you decide to match it to the color scheme of your room or opt for something striking and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and scratches. If the dents aren't large enough to handle then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

White is a favorite color for fireplaces and walls. But, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a look at the wood fireplaces trim on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you opt for the latter option, select the color that works well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will hold up well to the heat generated by the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick can be quite heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with an even or light color will make it appear more lively and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to go with the lighter hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.