How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will provide your living space with an attractive focal point. There are a variety of models available however, it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.

The most significant features include the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right 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 focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. To connect the look, choose a trim style to match or contrast with your other trim elements such as thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking to create an elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual 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 also be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

Another non-combustible option you can use to build a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with more traditional country-style decor.

When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all national and local construction codes for security.

Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other things. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls, and other structures that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels to create a rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes as well as natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as 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 living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern look or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

The wooden beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without a fire burning. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.

No matter which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both materials can be 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 are sold in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be used with different textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that give the room a rustic, classic feel. They also go well with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the overall design 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 appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold style that might be intimidating in other parts of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial decor in this room.

Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or a similar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without costing you a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to stick to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is with an update of the paint. Painting the mantel a different color also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the overall color scheme of the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check 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 using 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

While white is a popular color for cheapest fireplaces and walls, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a examine 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 the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you opt for a light shade for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the appearance.