How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are many models available and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.
The output of heat, the controls, and the design are just a few of the important features. If you’re not familiar with these elements, it’s best to hire a professional to help you pick the right model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace overhaul. The new look is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace’s facade modernize it while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace’s exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to make a simple but effective method of framing a tile fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to make the look more cohesive. If you’re looking for a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Another non-combustible material you can create a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and meets all national and local codes.
Open shelving is a great option to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of a fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls, and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give an authentic look. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that increases their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to create the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive accent 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 modern look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams can serve as the central element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without a fire burning. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.
No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available at most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any decor choice from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.
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 patterned tile adds the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to test an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here’s another option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The dark brown color provides this space with a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial style.
Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to use tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and electric fires Fire (https://forgejo.olayzen.Com/) maintain.
If you’re not ready to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to update the look without costing you a fortune. A majority of these options are heat resistant, making them safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted a different colour to add warmth and character. If you decide to match it to the decor’s color scheme or opt for something striking or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty, if they’re small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. To remove any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they have the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the space looking balanced.
Before you begin painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are located on or around the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared, wipe it down with the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.
Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any 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 (Pinecorp.com) wall.
The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color can make it look brighter and more inviting for guests. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a work of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the appearance.