How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models on the market, however, so it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The heat output, controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to assist you in choosing the best model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a dramatic fireplace overhaul. The new look is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. A few changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around windows and doors to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add character to a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose conforms to all local and national building codes to ensure security.

Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items however, too many shelves can take over the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They have the typical markings of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes, plus natural patinas that increase their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.

No matter which method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as surrounds for cheap fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for an individual appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble fireplaces-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the room.

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 the entire room a an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk with design in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold design which could be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial decor in the room.

Tiles that look like brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the appearance without costing you a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces wood as well as able to adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding style to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted with a different color to add warmth and personality. If you decide to match it to the room's color scheme or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If the mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for cracks, gouges, and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or dust.

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

Cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within it. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main part of your fireplace's wall.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. 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 hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.