Five Killer Quora Answers To Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of models on the market however, it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, the controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you choose the best model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. With a few design tweaks, the new look is fresh and attractive making the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding 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. Choose a trim style that is in contrast with or matches your other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for an elegant, luxurious look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible option you can use to create a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that can fit in with more traditional country-style decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into your freestanding fireplace design, make sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all local and national building codes for safety.

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. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical marks of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patinas that increase their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The natural tone of pine used to create this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of this space.

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

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without the need for a fire. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

Whichever method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of ethanol fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming 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 most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create 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 traditional or modern. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the overall design 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 pattern on the tile gives the whole space an artistic look that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is a great place to test the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial decor in the room.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are resistant to heat which means they are suitable for use in the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to add warmth and personality. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the color scheme of your room or go for something bold, a new paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is 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 period recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Do they use the same hue as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat with the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace insert as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of art or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.