How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an eye-catching focal area. There are many models available, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, the controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace makeover. The new style is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.

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

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding personality to rooms. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.

Another non-combustible material that you can build a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country-style decor.

When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all building codes for security.

Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other structures that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes and natural patinas that increase their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements that can be used for a mantel or fireplaces an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to create this traditional living room surround and fireplaces mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's 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 wooden beams will bring a unique look to any room. They can be left as is or stained to complement your current decor or distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or fireplace inserts they can be covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.

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

Whatever method of installation you decide to use ensure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the potential effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the entire design of the 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 gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.

If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to test the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial style of this room.

Tiles that look like brick or other common materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are resistant to heat, making them safe for fireplaces and able to stick to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to add warmth and character. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and scratches. Fill in the dents with 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 prior to painting. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces The right shade can make your mantel stand out. To get ideas, examine the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they have the same shade as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you opt for the latter option, select one that blends well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that were hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with the lighter hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.