So You ve Bought Wall Fireplace ... Now What

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are many models available so you need to pick one that meets your requirements.

The heat output, controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. With a few design tweaks the new look is bright and striking making the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to contrast or match your other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding character to rooms. The same technique can be used 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 that you can use to build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and complies with all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could take over the appearance of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that increases their longevity.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams can give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes, such as marbled or rust paint.

The Wooden electric fireplaces (Git.Progamma.Com.Ua) beams can serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding fireplace gas or electric firesuite or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.

Whichever method you decide to use to mount your beams, be sure they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of materials can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room a rustic, classic feel. They also go well with natural materials like wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflects light beautifully and enhances the space.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 pattern of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold design that could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial décor in this space.

Another way to make a statement with your fireplace electric is to select tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without costing you a fortune. A majority of these options are resistant to heat which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to cover the brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different color also adds warmth and personality to the space. 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 bold.

If your mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a popular shade for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade can make your mantel really stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you opt for the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are on or within it. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you choose a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a piece art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the overall look.