How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall will make your living space an attractive focal feature. There are many different designs available, however, so it is important to find one that meets your needs.
The heat output, the controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out a professional to help you pick the right model.
Molded Squares
A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. With a few design tweaks, the new look is fresh and attractive and makes the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade and the shelves in gray below contrast. A few changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, adding the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to make a simple but efficient way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a style of trim that is in contrast with or matches the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows, to create a cohesive look. If you prefer an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, choose to use dentil trim instead.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same method can be employed 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.
Another non-combustible material you can build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and conforms to all national and local codes.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the look of the fireplace. The owners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming 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 home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been destroyed. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process that improves their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for wood pieces that you can transform into a mantel. The natural tone of pine used to create the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams will bring a unique look to any room. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.
The
wooden fireplaces beams are able to serve as the central element of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without burning fire.
Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are available at most home improvement shops.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a
Fireplace Stove surround. Its design instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any style, whether modern or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the space a rustic, classic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as
fireplaces wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.
The proper tile pattern can improve the entire look 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 an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the
ethanol fireplace with the overall modern design of the room.
If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is a great place to play around with the bold style. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown hue provides this space with an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial style.
Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for
cheap fireplaces and can be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add an elegant feel to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to cover the brick surround of the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different color 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 overall color scheme of the room or pick something bold.
If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for cracks, gouges, and scratches. If the dents aren't enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or dust.
White is a popular shade for
fireplaces wood and walls. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for ideas.