How To Save Money On Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models available however, it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.
The heat output, the controls, and the design are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these elements, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.
Molded Squares
This living room needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and bland walls. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that can fit in with a more traditional, country-style decor.
When you incorporate brick in a 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 reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all national and local construction codes for security.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that improves their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and an image of a landscape above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.
The wooden beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fire fireplace or be integrated 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 choose, make sure that your wood or steel beams are properly protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened with a layer ethonal fire-resistant drywall. These products are available at most home improvement shops.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space while blending with any decor choice from modern to traditional. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, Biofireplace while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can also be used with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the room.
The proper tile pattern can improve 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 pattern of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace electric with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold style which could be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The dark brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial decor.
Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without costing you a fortune. A lot of these options are heat resistant, making them safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different colour to add warmth and personality. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the room's color scheme or opt for something striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is made of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.
While white fireplace is a popular color for walls and fireplaces fireplace (in the know), the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for ideas. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the room looking well-balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will be able to stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, as per the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in shade. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.