Are You Getting The Most The Use Of Your Wall Fireplace?

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many different models on the market however, it is important to find one that meets your needs.

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

Molded Squares

The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and dull walls. The new style is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade, while the gray shelves below contrast. The fireplace facade 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 your fireplace surround. To connect the look, choose a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse-style.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add character to rooms. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled material like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to build a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that could be a good fit with more traditional country-style decor.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and conforms to all national and local codes.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things, but too many can take over the appearance of a fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls, and other buildings that were destroyed. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes, plus natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to create the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, as well as a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern look, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

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

No matter which method of installation you choose be sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether modern or traditional. The choice of matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some color to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be combined with various textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the space.

The proper tile pattern can enhance the design 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 of the tile adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold design which could be intimidating in other parts of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes for a stimulating layout, and the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this room.

Tile that looks like brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to update the look without spending a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is with fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to add warmth and personality. If you decide to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking, a new paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces but the right color can make your mantel stand out. To get ideas, look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Do  electric wall mounted fireplaces  use the same color as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter shade? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the look balanced.

Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clean the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat from the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel with an even or light color can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you choose to paint it a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to balance the appearance.