How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an eye-catching focal feature. There are many different models on the market, however, so it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and striking and makes this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or Bio-fireplace complements your other trim elements such as the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim 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 an effective way to add character any room. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to enhance a traditional country style.

If you are incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose complies with all local and national building codes to ensure safety.

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The owners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling panels to create a rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical marks of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets as well as natural patinas that increase their durability.

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

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 to give an antique appearance. They can also be painted for an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

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

No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, make sure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any style of decor from modern to traditional. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look, while also adding some color to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the space.

The proper tile pattern can improve the overall 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 gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk with design in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold pattern that could be a bit intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown hue gives this space an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.

Tiles that look like brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar 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 spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to adhere 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

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood fireplaces putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. To remove any dirt or debris wipe the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. But, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. To get ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you choose the latter option, select the color that works well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are on or around the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared, wipe it down with an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you choose an unassuming color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the look.