This Is The History Of Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market, however, so it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.
The heat output, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you select the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its outdated stone surround and boring walls. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. A few color changes can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. To tie the look together pick a trim style to contrast or match your other trim elements like thick casing around doors and windows. If you want 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-style.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective way to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Another non-combustible material that you can use to build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that can fit in with a more traditional, country-style decor.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and meets all codes of the local and national level.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other things. However, too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam carries with it its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create an authentic appearance. They feature the usual barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process which increases their longevity.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to create this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace wall. 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 will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be left as is or stained to match the decor of your home or cut and distressed to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern look, or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams are able to serve as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without any fire burning. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.
No matter which method of installation you decide to use ensure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the possible effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial ethanol fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White fireplace Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any style of decor from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the room an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles feature an elegant and glossy surface that reflects light beautifully and brightens the room.
The right tile pattern can elevate a fireplace's design. 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 adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.
If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to play around with the bold style. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes are arranged as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial decor in this space.
Tiles that look like brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for electric fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add elegance to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to cover the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and personality to the space. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or pick something bold.
If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and scratches. 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. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or dust.
While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? 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.
Cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clean the mantel, taking out any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within it. After the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and fireplaces stain-resistant, which means your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace suites's wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in color. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose a light shade for your mantel, match it with a piece of art with earthy tones or a large mirror to complement the look.