How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.

The heat output, controls, and the appearance 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 select the best model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls created a living space that was in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces make a simple but effective way to frame a tile fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements like the thick casing around windows and doors, to tie the look together. If you want an elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can use dentil trim instead.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding the look of rooms. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of 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 could be a good fit with more traditional country style.

If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that 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 is compliant with all national and local construction codes for security.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their longevity.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy color of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround evokes a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

wooden fireplaces beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fire fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to accent a mantel without a Ethonal Fire burning.

Whichever method you choose to put in your beams, be sure they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming 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 Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace suite. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any style of decor, from traditional to modern. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the space.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 gives the entire room a an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a patterns in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold style that might be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines give this room a sophisticated and lively energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue gives this space a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.

Tiles that resemble brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update the look without spending a fortune. A lot of these options are resistant to heat which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant look to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. The mantel's paint 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 color scheme of the room or pick something bold.

If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular choice for fireplaces wooden and walls, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter, choose one that blends well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within it. Once the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, as well as other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.

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