20 Tools That Will Make You Better At 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 need to pick one that suits your needs.

The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you choose the best model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade while the shelves that are gray below contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to form a simple, yet effective, way to frame the fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements like the thick casing around windows and doors, to make the look more cohesive. If you prefer an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse-style.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, instead, consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a dramatic look.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you're planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the brick you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other items, but too many can take over the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical marks of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets and a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. For example the earthy color of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of the room.

Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any room. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can serve as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace, or be integrated into a brick or ethanol fireplaces stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use ensure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of electric fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are available at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for ethanol fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, contemporary 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 be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space a rustic, classic feel. They also look great with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the sunlight and brightening the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 gives the entire room a an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold style that might be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial style of the room.

Tile that looks like brick or other common materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without costing you a fortune. A majority of these options are heat resistant and therefore safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed 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

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to cover the brick surround of a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and character to the space. If you decide to match it with the room's color scheme or go for something bold and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If the mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and nicks. Fill in the dents using wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. But, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Clean the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main body of your fireplace wall.

While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be heavy and dark in color. Painting the mantel an even or light color can make it look brighter and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.