How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models available however, it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.
The output of heat, the controls, Fireplacesandstove.com and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
A dull stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace revamp. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and attractive, making the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. 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 tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around windows and doors, to tie the look together. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, use dentil trim instead.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding character to the interior of a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Another non-combustible material you can use to build the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with a more traditional, country style.
If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your 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 shelving is a great way of storing books and other objects. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overpowering open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam carries with it its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide plank paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process which increases their longevity.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used to create this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape painting above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of the room.
Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as is or stained to match the decor of your home or distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams can be used 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 accent the mantel without a flame burning.
Whichever method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available at most stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any style, whether traditional or modern. The choice of an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individualized look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances 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 patterned tile adds the appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with patterns in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold style which could be intimidating in other parts of your home. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in the room.
Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick but is much simpler to clean and maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. Many of these options are heat-resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add an elegant feel to any living space and will look great with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the ideal way to hide the brick surround of the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different hue to add warmth and character. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
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. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the look well-balanced.
Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the brick fireplace. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has built up.
Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace, as well as other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main part of your fireplace's wall.
While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace wall, it can be heavy and dark in shade. The mantel painted with an even or light color can make it look brighter and more inviting to guests. If you choose to paint it a light hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.