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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will provide your living space with an eye-catching focal feature. There are a variety of models available and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you’re not aware of these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. A few color changes can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, adding the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to match or contrast with your other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you’re looking for a more elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can use dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking look.

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

When incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you’ll want to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all building codes for safety.

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

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that were removed. Each beam has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create an authentic appearance. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that increases their longevity.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams will add a unique touch to any room. They can be left as-is or stained to match your existing decor, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without any fire burning. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a burning fire.

Whatever method of installation you choose be sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the consequences of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold at most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor style, from traditional to modern. wall mounted fireplace is perfect to create a polished and sleek appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety of textures for an individual 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. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the space.

The perfect tile pattern can enhance the overall 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 pattern on the tile gives the whole space a handcrafted appeal that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.

If you’re unsure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with a bold design. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here’s a similar option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but lively energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.

Tile that looks like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

If you’re not ready to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the look without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding elegance to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. Whether you choose to match it with the room’s color scheme or opt for something striking or bold, a new color will make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents are small enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. To remove any dirt or debris clean the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they have the same hue as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If you decide to go with the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, removing any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are on or within it. Once the mantel has been cleared then wipe it clean with a a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will hold up well to the heat generated by the fireplace and any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you choose to paint it a light color, consider pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror above it to balance the look.