Are You Getting The Most The Use Of Your Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous designs available, however, so it is crucial to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The heat output, controls, and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you aren't familiar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help select the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace makeover. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to create a simple, yet effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements like thick casings around doors and windows. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

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

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace suites ensure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you select 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 can take over the appearance of the fireplace suites. The homeowners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance make a great fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam carries with it its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. For example the earthy color of pine that accentuates this traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can also be painted for a more contemporary appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.

The wooden fireplaces beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without the need for a fire. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.

Whatever method you choose to put in your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and complements any style, whether modern or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customized by a variety of textures to create an individualized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that lends the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve the look 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 adds an artistic look to the space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a design in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold style that could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes for a stimulating layout, and the dark brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial décor in the room.

Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but has the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are heat-resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide the brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. Whether you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color will make your fireplace electric stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't enough to handle, fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls The right shade can make your mantel stand out. Check out the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If the latter, choose the color Electric fireplace that is well-matched to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or around it. After the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat with the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will hold up well to the heat of the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. 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.