How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market but it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The most significant features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's recommended to consult an expert to help pick the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is vibrant and attractive and makes this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade 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 are combined to create a simple yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for a more elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can use dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible option you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you're planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and the surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the brick you select is safe and meets all national and local codes.

Open shelving can be excellent for storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are perfect for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other structures that were removed. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging which increases their longevity.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. For instance the earthy hue of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood 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. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a painting of a landscape above the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance or covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.

The wooden beams can serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or be integrated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Whatever method you choose to put in your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials can be brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant 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 a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the space an authentic, rustic look while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening up the space.

The perfect tile pattern can enhance 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 adds an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a patterns in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold style that could be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial decor.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, fireplacesandstove consider using a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and personality to the space. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the look balanced.

Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on the brick fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.

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

The brick can be quite heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with an even or light color can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose a light shade for your mantel, match it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to complete the look.