Are You Getting The Most Value From Your Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room an eye-catching focal feature. There are many different models available but it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.
The most significant features are the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to consult an expert to help you pick the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. The new look is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the shelves in gray below. A few color changes also help the facade stand out from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To tie the look together pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, such as thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking for an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same method 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 appearance.
Another non-combustible material that you can build the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and meets all local and national codes.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets and a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for wood pieces that you can transform into a mantel. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accentuates this traditional living room mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, biofireplace (visit your url) cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace stove wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, as well as an image of a landscape above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any space. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.
Whatever method of installation you decide to use be sure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether traditional or modern. Selecting matte finishes for the tiles is a great way to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.
The right tile pattern can elevate the entire design 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 a handcrafted appeal that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace and the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a ethanol fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold design which could be a bit intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The dark brown color gives this space an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.
Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to traditional brick but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without costing you a dime. A lot of these options are heat resistant, making them safe for fireplaces wooden and able to stick to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding the look of a room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and personality to the room. If you decide to match it to the decor's color scheme or opt for something striking and striking, a fresh paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.
If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to remove any remaining dirt or dust.
While white is a popular color for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. To get ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Do they use the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker shade? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the room looking balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel and remove any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are on or around it. After 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 a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.
The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you decide to go with a light color, consider pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.