7 Things About Wall Fireplace You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will make your living space an eye-catching focal feature. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that suits your needs.

The output of heat, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is recommended to consult an expert to help pick the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room required a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is vibrant and striking, making the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update 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 combine to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you want an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, you can opt for dentil trim instead.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add character to a room. The same technique can be employed to frame the 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.

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in various styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a traditional choice 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.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox and fireplacesandstove the surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and meets all national and local codes.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things, but too many can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give a rustic look. They have the typical marks of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes, plus natural patina that increases their durability.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. For instance the earthy color of pine that highlights the traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use be sure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the potential effects of fire. Both materials can be brittle in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether traditional or modern. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to maintain that clean and polished look, while also adding some contrast that makes the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature an elegant and glossy surface that reflects light beautifully and brightens the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 pattern of the tile gives the whole space a handcrafted appeal that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an ideal place to test out a bold pattern that could be intimidating in other parts of your home. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes, creating a lively layout. The dark brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial style.

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

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are heat resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing surface. 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 most effective method to minimize its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Painting the mantel a different hue also adds warmth and character to the space. If you decide to match it to the color scheme of your room or go for something bold, a new paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

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 trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking balanced.

Cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that might have been placed above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are located on or around it. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or soot that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace, as well as other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the appearance.