How To Save Money On Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will make your living space an attractive focal point. There are many models available, so you should choose one that suits your needs.

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

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is bright and eye-catching making the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet efficient way to frame a tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements like the thick casing around doors and windows, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium look, consider 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 look.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to enhance a traditional country style.

If you're planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all building codes for safety.

Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other items. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other buildings that were destroyed. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern fireplace kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets as well as natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. For example the earthy color of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be left as is or stained to match your existing decor or carved and distressed for an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.

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

No matter which method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial ethanol fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether modern or traditional. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.

The perfect tile pattern can enhance the entire look 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 patterned tile adds a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a patterns in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold design which could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown hue creates an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.

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

If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are heat-resistant, making them safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing wall. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding elegance to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide a brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different color to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.

If the mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and nicks. Fill in the dents with 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 before painting. To remove any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a favorite color for fireplaces wooden electric (similar internet site) and walls. However the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For ideas, take a examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel and remove any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on the brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. Painting the mantel an even or light color will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you choose a light color for your mantel, match it with a work of art in earthy tones or a large mirror to complete the overall look.