How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall can be your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models available and you must pick one that suits your needs.
The heat output, controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these elements, 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 dull walls. The new design is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few minor changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To bring the design together pick a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements, such as thick casing around doors and windows. If you want a more high-end, elegant style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.
Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding character to a room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.
Another non-combustible material you can build a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you are incorporating brick in a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all building codes for security.
Open shelving is a great option to store books and other things however, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. The owners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam carries with it its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their durability.
Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape image above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams will add a unique touch to any room. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match your existing decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give modern appearance or covered with faux finishes, such as marbled or rust paint.
The wooden beams can serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel, without burning fire.
Whichever method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can be hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available at most stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style, whether traditional or modern. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the room an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate 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 pattern of the tile provides an artistic look to the space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is a great place to play around with the bold style. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this space.
Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat-resistant which means they are suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best method to cover the brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and character to the space. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or pick something striking.
If your mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the space looking balanced.
Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is empty, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has accumulated.
Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main part of your fireplace's wall.
While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace wall, it can be a bit heavy and www.fireplacesandstove.Com dark in color. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to complement the overall look.