How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can provide your living space with an eye-catching focal area. There are numerous models available, however, so it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.
The heat output, the controls, and the design 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 a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its stale stone surround and dull walls. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, such as the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more elegant, luxurious look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding the look of a room. The same technique can be used to frame a 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.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a 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. Rustic-style brick is another option that can fit in with more traditional country decor.
If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace electric design, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.
Open shelving is a great way to store books and other items however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. The owners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood fireplace beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other buildings that have been demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes and natural patina that increases their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to create this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic charm of this space.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to match the decor of your home or carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams can serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, electric fires or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.
No matter which method of installation you choose, make sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the potential effects of bioethanol fire. Both materials can be brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Fireplace Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look, while also adding some color to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles also work well with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.
The proper tile pattern can enhance a fireplace's design. 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 an artistic look to the space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk on a patterns in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold style which could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial decor in this room.
Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or a similar material. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about using a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add style to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to add warmth and character. If you decide to match it to the room's color scheme or go for something bold or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Sand Fireplaces Fireplace the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt wipe the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular color for fireplaces and walls, the right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you begin painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel can withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
The brick can be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you choose to paint it a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of artwork or a large mirror above it to balance the appearance.