How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many models available and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to assist you in choosing the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is fresh and attractive making the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it and contrast with the gray shelves below. A few minor changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, adding the beauty of this electric fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To connect the look, choose a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements, such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you prefer an elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

Another non-combustible material that you can build a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox, and the surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the brick you select is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of a fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted for modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as marbled paint or rust.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a fire burning. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no 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 are susceptible to becoming brittle in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces wooden. Its shape instantly enhances the space and is a perfect match for any decor choice from modern to traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that lends the space an authentic, rustic look while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight 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 on the tile adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the tabletop 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 a bold design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and lively energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown hue gives this space an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial decor.

Tile that looks like brick or other familiar materials is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

If you're hesitant to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the look without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to adhere to existing surfaces. 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 furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Painting the mantel a different color also adds warmth and personality to the room. If you decide to match it with the color scheme of your room or go for something bold, a new paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If the mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and scratches. If the dents aren't enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they use the same shade as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If the latter, choose the color that is well-matched to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace, and any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, as per the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. Painting the mantel an even or light color will make it appear more lively and more welcoming to guests. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.