How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can provide your living space with an attractive focal feature. There are many different models on the market, however, so it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, controls and the appearance 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 choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and Lynn Bolvin dull walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. The new look is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below contrast. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that is in contrast with or matches the other trim elements, like the thick casing around doors and windows, to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for a more elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding the look of the interior of a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to enhance a traditional country style.

When incorporating brick in a fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all building codes for security.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate 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 feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging that improves their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, as well as an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left as is or Lynn Bolvin [lynnbolvin.top] stained to match your current decor or cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern look, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

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

No matter which method of installation you decide to use be sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for lynnbolvin any decor, modern or lynnbolvin.Top traditional. The choice of matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that provides a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve a fireplace's design. 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 the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace, and the overall modern design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold design that could be intimidating in other areas of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes for a stimulating layout, and the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that works with the industrial decor in this space.

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

If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat, 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 bring an elegant look to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. Paint the mantel in a different color also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the room looking balanced.

Protect the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clean the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or within the fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint lasts and Lynnbolvin.top stain-resistant, which means your mantel will be able to be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other items 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's wall.

The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you choose a light shade for your mantel, match it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to complement the overall look.