How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous models to choose from and you must pick one that suits your needs.

The heat output, the controls and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you're not aware of these elements, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and bland walls. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. To bring the design together pick a trim style to match or contrast with your other trim elements like thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking to create an elegant, luxurious look, consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, opt for dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible option you can build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country decor.

When incorporating brick in a fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose conforms to all local and national building codes to ensure security.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things However, too many shelves could make a mess of a fireplace. For this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process that improves their longevity.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to make into a fireplace. The natural tone of pine used to create this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates the feeling of a cozy country getaway. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as is or stained to match the decor of your home or distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding fireplace gas, ventless or Electric fire fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel, without burning fire.

Whichever method you decide to use to mount your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as surrounds for electric fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the space while blending with any decor choice from traditional to modern. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight 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 gives a handcrafted look to the space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is a great spot to play around with a bold design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown hue creates an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial decor.

Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or a similar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick but is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to upgrade your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant feel to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To get rid of any debris or dirt clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces wooden. However the right shade can make your mantel really stand out. Look at the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Do they have the same color as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker shade? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the look balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

The brick can be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece art in earthy tones or a large mirror to balance out the overall look.