Five Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.
The heat output, controls, and the design are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and striking, making the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color also help the facade stand out from the wall, adding the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective, way to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements such as the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards you can try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.
Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for fireplace Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that can fit in with more traditional country style.
When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and conforms to all local and national codes.
Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of the fireplace. For this family room homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam carries with it its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging that improves their longevity.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing design or carved to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal point of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without any fire burning. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.
No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by a layer of ethanol fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor choice from modern to traditional. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some 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 lends the space an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble fireplaces-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight 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 patterned tile gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is a great place to experiment with an imposing design. 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 work like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial style of this room.
Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add an elegant look to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace on the wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and personality to the space. Whether you choose to match it with the decor's color scheme or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color makes your fireplace suites stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to handle then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.
White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. However the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Do they use the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If you opt for the latter option, select the color that works well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Make sure you cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are located on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.
The brick may be heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel with in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, pair it with a work of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.