How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of designs available, however, so it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you aren't familiar with these elements, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and attractive and makes the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior, while the gray shelves below contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, such as the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more high-end, elegant look, use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used 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 appearance.

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

If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and meets all national and local codes.

Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items, but too many can make a mess of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood fireplace beams are sourced from old barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging that increases their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden fireplaces elements to transform into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left as is or stained to match the decor of your home or distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel, without burning fire.

No matter which method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or wood fireplaces beams are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are available at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style, whether contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that reflects light beautifully and brightens 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 patterned tile adds the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a pattern risk in your home The fireplace is a great spot to test the bold style. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but lively energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown hue provides this space with an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.

Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or a similar material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but has the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about using a peel and stick tile to update the look without costing you a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able be bonded to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding elegance to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to give it a more cosy and spirited look. 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 striking.

If your mantel is made of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to be able to handle Fill them in with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for electric fireplaces and walls. However, the right shade will make your mantel really 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 the latter, pick the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Clean the mantel and remove any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

While the brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with the lighter hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the appearance.