How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models available however, it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you choose the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple, yet efficient way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements like the thick casing around doors and windows, to tie the look together. If you want a more high-end, elegant look, use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character to any room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose complies with all local and national building codes for safety.

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of a fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that highlights the traditional 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 complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match the decor of your home or carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can also be painted for an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.

Whatever method of installation you choose ensure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the potential effects of fire. Both materials can be brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether traditional or modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room an authentic, classic look. They also go well with natural materials, such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 of the tile gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is a great place to experiment with an imposing design. It can be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color gives this space an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial style.

Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another popular material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. A majority of these options are resistant to heat which means they are suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add elegance to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is made 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 allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or dust.

White is a popular shade for walls and fireplaces. However the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you choose the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on your brick fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.

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, so your mantel will stand up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you decide to go with a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.