How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can provide your living space with an eye-catching focal feature. There are numerous models on the market but it is essential to choose one that is suitable for your needs.
The heat output, controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room required an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace stove (fireplacesandstoves-uk13344.tinyblogging.com) mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the exterior, while the gray shelves below contrast. A few color changes also help the facade stand apart from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements such as thick casing around doors and windows. If you want an elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding character to a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Brick is another non-combustible option for the 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're planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.
Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other things. However having too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a fireplace suite on the wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process that increases their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the space.
Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any room. They can be left as is or stained to match your existing decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as marbled paint or rust.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace, or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.
Whatever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at a 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 the room and can be incorporated into any style, whether contemporary or traditional. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look, while also adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an authentic, rustic look while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble fireplaces-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate 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 patterned tile gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home the fireplace is a great spot to experiment with the bold style. It can be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial decor in the room.
Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but with the benefit of being easier to clean and Electric Firesuite maintain.
If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to refresh the look without costing you a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat, making them suitable for fireplaces and marble fireplaces able adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective way to hide the brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.
If your mantel is constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or dust.
White is a favorite color for walls and cheap fireplaces. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Do they have the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or darker shade? If you opt for the latter, choose one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around the brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or soot that has accumulated.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer 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 weight and color. Paint the mantel with an unassuming 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 large mirror over it to create a balanced look.