How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market however, it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.
The output of heat, the controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to seek out an expert to help you choose the best model.
Molded Squares
This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and bland walls. The new look is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior, 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, method to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to create a cohesive look. If you want an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add personality to a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Another non-combustible material you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a popular choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.
If you are incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all local and national building codes for safety.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the appearance of the fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood fireplace beams originate from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process that improves their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. The natural tone of pine used to create this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes, such as marbled paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning bioethanol fire.
Whichever method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and Ethanol Fireplace (simply click for source) enhances the space.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 provides an artistic look to the space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is a great place to test an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that works with the industrial décor in this space.
Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. Many of these options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to stick to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to cover the brick surround of the wall of a fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something bold.
If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust.
While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls but the right color can make your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Do they use the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or darker hue? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, removing any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has accumulated.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main body of your fireplace's wall.
The brick may be heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you choose an unassuming color for your mantel, match it with a piece art with earthy tones or a large mirror to complete the appearance.