How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an attractive focal area. There are a variety of models available however, it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the design are just a few of the important features. If you're not aware of these elements, it's best to hire an expert to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade, while the gray shelves below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. To connect the look, choose a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, like thick casings around doors and windows. If you want a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse style, choose to use dentil trim instead.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same method 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 appearance.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It is available 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-look brick can also be used to enhance a traditional country style.

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

Open shelving is a great way to organize books and other items however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. The owners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other structures that were removed. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets as well as natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to create this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country 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 that borders the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without any fire burning. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.

Whatever method of installation you choose ensure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the potential effects of fire. Both types of material 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 are sold at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any decor choice from traditional to modern fireplace. The choice of an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be used with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the room an authentic, classic look. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble fireplace-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances 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 pattern on the tile gives the entire room a a handcrafted appeal that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace, and the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home The fireplace is a great spot to experiment with an imposing design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color gives this space an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.

Tiles that resemble brick or other materials you are familiar with is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile, from 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 to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat resistant, making them safe for fireplaces wooden and able to stick to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add style to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to cover the brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and personality to the room. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it with the decor's color scheme or go for something bold, a new paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't enough to be handled then fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a popular color for Fireplaces wooden and walls. However the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for ideas. Do they have the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker hue? 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.

Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that might have been placed over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is empty and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has built up.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.