Five Killer Quora Answers To Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are many models available and you must pick one that meets your requirements.
Some of the most important features are the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to seek out an expert to assist you in choosing the best model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace electric and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. The new design is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade while the shelves that are gray below contrast. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements like the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add personality to a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.
Another non-combustible option you can use to create the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to enhance a traditional country style.
If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.
Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other items. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. For fireplace Suite this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets as well as natural patinas that increase their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose into a mantel. For instance the earthy color of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround creates an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the ethanol fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape painting over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of this space.
Repurposed wood beams will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be left as is or stained to match your current decor or carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or electric or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.
No matter which method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However, they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space while complementing any decor choice from modern to traditional. The choice of matte finishes for the tiles is ideal to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety of textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an authentic, rustic look while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening the room.
The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 on the tile gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace, and the overall modern design of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk on a patterns in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold style which could be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but 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 complements the industrial decor in this space.
Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another popular material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without spending a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding elegance 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 with fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to add warmth and character. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.
If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents are small enough to be able to handle, fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular color for walls and cheap fireplaces but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter option, select the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has built up.
Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.