How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models available so you need to pick one that is suitable for your needs.
The output of heat, the controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is best to hire an expert to help choose the right model.
Molded Squares
A worn-out stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few changes in color also help the facade stand out from the wall, adding the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to create a simple yet efficient way to frame a tile fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.
Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country decor.
When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose conforms to all national and local building codes to ensure security.
Open shelving is a great option to organize books and other items, but too many can make a mess of a
fireplace suite. The homeowners of this family room designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patinas that increase their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. 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. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape painting over the mantel add to the rustic charm of the room.
Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.
No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of
fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. 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 to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the space.
The proper tile pattern can improve the entire 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 pattern on the tile gives the whole space an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the overall modern design of the room.
If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great place to test the bold style. It can be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial décor
electric Firesuite in the room.
Another option to make an impact 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 traditional brick but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without costing you a fortune. A lot of these options are heat-resistant and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant look to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide the brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. Painting the mantel a different hue also adds warmth and character to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or pick something bold.
If your mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and scratches. If the dents aren't enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To remove any debris or dirt clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
White is a popular shade for
ethanol fireplaces and walls. But the right shade can make your mantel really stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls.