How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will provide your living space with an eye-catching focal feature. There are a variety of designs available but it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you're not aware of these elements, it's best to seek out an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace overhaul. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and eye-catching, making the hearth an important central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above the ethanol fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasted with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to create a simple, yet effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around windows and doors, to create a cohesive look. If you want an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding character to rooms. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country style.

When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose complies with all local and national building codes for safety.

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other items. However, too many shelves can obstruct the look of a fireplace. For this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as accents to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their longevity.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. For example the earthy hue of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature 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 look. They can also be painted for an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fire fireplace, or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel, without burning fire.

No matter which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space and is a perfect match for any decor choice from traditional to modern. Selecting matte finishes for the tiles is a great way to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening the room.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 pattern of the tile gives the entire room a the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is a great spot to experiment with the bold style. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color provides this space with a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.

Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to refresh the look without breaking the bank. Many of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective way to hide the brick surround of the wall of a fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and character to the room. A new color of paint can 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 made of wood, inspect it first for cracks, gouges, and scratches. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or dust.

white fireplace (selfbizdirectory.com) is a popular shade for fireplaces and walls. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. To get ideas, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking well-balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within it. Once the mantel is empty and clean, wipe it with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, as per the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.