A Wall Fireplace Success Story You’ll Never Believe

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 available, however, so it is essential to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat along with the appearance and controls. If you’re unfamiliar with these features, it’s recommended to hire an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplaces fireplace insert surround and bland walls left this living space in need of a major fireplace overhaul. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and eye-catching making the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, like the thick casing around windows and doors, to tie the look together. If you’re looking to create an elegant, luxurious style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same method can be employed 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 appearance.

Another non-combustible material you can build the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different 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.

When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are ideal for a fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other structures that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give an authentic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process which increases their longevity.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. For instance the earthy hue of pine that highlights the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy rural retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace inserts wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting over the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique look. They can also be painted for modern appearance or covered with faux finishes, such as marbled or rust paint.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the central element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without a fire burning. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.

Whatever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products can be found at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly enhances the space and is a perfect match for any decor style from traditional to modern. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. stone fireplaces-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space a rustic, classic feel. They also go well with natural materials, such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 an artistic look to the space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you’re unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to play around with the bold style. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the dark brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial style of this room.

Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to select tiles that have the look of brick or a similar material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, but is much simpler to clean and maintain.

If you’re not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace’s surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to refresh the look without spending a fortune. A majority of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add the look of a room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is with an update of the paint. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. If you decide to match it to the color scheme of your room or opt for something striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren’t large enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade can make your freestanding fireplace stand out. To get ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they have the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter shade? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking well-balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

While brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace’s wall, it can be heavy and dark in shade. The mantel painted with an even or light color will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.