10 Things Everybody Hates About Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will provide your living space with an attractive focal feature. There are numerous models on the market however, it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

The most significant features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its old-fashioned stone surround and dull walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and eye-catching making the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the appearance of the façade while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, adding the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together, choose a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for an elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add character to rooms. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material you can create an enclosure for your fireplace 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. Rustic-style brick is another alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country decor.

If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all building codes for security.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other things. However, too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. The owners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging that increases their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace wall fires. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as is or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can also be painted for an updated look or covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fire fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are available in a wide 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 blending with any decor choice from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that lends the space a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble fireplaces-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully 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 on the tile gives the entire room a an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace, and the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a patterns in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold pattern that could be intimidating in other parts of your home. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color provides this space with a warm, inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial decor.

Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to use tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another popular material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without costing you a dime. A lot of these options are resistant to heat, making them safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to cover the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and personality to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for cracks, gouges, and nicks. If the dents aren't enough to handle then fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces The right shade can make your mantel stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter option, select a color that will work well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that were hung above the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the brick fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

While brick is an attractive feature of a marble fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the look.