What s Holding Back The Wall Fireplace Industry
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace will give your living room an eye-catching focal point. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.
The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to consult a professional to assist you in choosing the right model.
Molded Squares
A worn-out stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is bright and eye-catching making the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade while the shelves that are gray below contrast. A few changes in color also help the facade stand out from the wall, enhancing the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To connect the look select a trim design to contrast with or complement the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you prefer an elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse style, choose to use dentil trim instead.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Another non-combustible material that you can build a fireplace surround is brick, which is available 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 could be used to enhance a traditional country style.
If you're planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace ensure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all building codes to ensure safety.
Open shelving is a great option to store books and other items however, too many shelves can take over the appearance of a fireplace. The owners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls and other buildings that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide planks to give a rustic look. They have the typical barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their longevity.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. For example the earthy color of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of this space.
Repurposed wood beams will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can also be painted for modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set over a freestanding gas, ventless or Electric Firesuite fireplace or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel, without burning fire.
Whatever method of installation you choose be sure that your wood or steel beams are properly protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, whether modern or traditional. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace inserts stand out.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate 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 the appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace suites with the overall style of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with an imposing design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial style of the room.
Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. A lot of these options are resistant to heat, making them safe for fireplaces and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add the look of a room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace on the wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and character to the space. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it with the room's color scheme or opt for something more striking and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents are small enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt wipe the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Do they have the same color as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the look balanced.
Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that might have been placed above the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat with 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 from the fireplace and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art with earthy tones or a large mirror to complement the overall look.