20 Resources That Will Make You Better At Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an attractive focal feature. There are many models available, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.
Some of the most important features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to hire a professional to help you pick the right model.
Molded Squares
A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the Tabletop fireplace modernize the facade while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. To bring the design together select a trim design to match or contrast with your other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.
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 however, try a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.
Another non-combustible option you can build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country decor.
When you incorporate brick in a fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and meets all codes of the local and national level.
Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other items. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. For this family room homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling for a fully rustic design or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process that increases their durability.
Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. For example the earthy color of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape image above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any space. They can be left as is or stained to complement the decor of your home or carved and distressed for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams can be used as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or fireplaces Fireplaces incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace inserts. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.
No matter which method you decide to use to mount your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor, contemporary or traditional. The choice of a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety of textures for an individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening the room.
The perfect tile pattern can enhance the entire 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 patterned tile adds an artistic look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is a great place to experiment with an imposing design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial style of this space.
Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or a similar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to upgrade your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. Many of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add the look of a room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint color can also add warmth and personality to the room. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.
If the mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents are small 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 using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To remove any debris or dirt wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular color for fireplaces and walls but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter option, select one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clean the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or within it. After the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel can be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main body of your fireplace wall.
The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Painting the mantel in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.