15 Reasons Why You Shouldn t Ignore Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can make your living space an attractive focal feature. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features include the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its old-fashioned stone fireplaces surround and bland walls. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is fresh and striking, making the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple, yet effective method of framing a fireplace surround made of tile. To tie the look together pick a trim style to contrast or match your other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you're looking for a more high-end, elegant style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, choose to use dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material you can use to build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country decor.

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

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other objects. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of the fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks to give an authentic look. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. For example, the earthy shade of pine that highlights the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape painting above the mantel add to the rustic charm of the room.

Repurposed wooden beams can add a unique touch to any space. 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 modern look, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or electric or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.

No matter which method you choose to put in 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 a variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor from modern to traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials, such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 pattern of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold design that could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color creates an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial style.

Tiles that resemble brick or other materials you are familiar with is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without costing you a fortune. Many of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add elegance to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is with an update of the paint. The mantel's paint color can also add warmth and personality to the room. Whether you choose to match it to the room's color scheme or go for something bold and striking, a fresh paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If the mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a favorite color for fireplaces and walls. But, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trims, biofireplace moldings, and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you choose the latter option, select one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you opt for 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.