How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an eye-catching focal area. There are a variety of models available however, it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.
Some of the most important features include the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is best to hire an expert to help you choose the right model.
Molded Squares
A worn-out stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace overhaul. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is vibrant and striking making this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade, while the gray shelves below are a contrast. A few changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective way to add character any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking look.
Another non-combustible material you can use to build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.
If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox, and www.fireplacesandstove.com your surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the material you choose complies with all local and national building codes for security.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other things. However, too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a fully rustic design or as accents to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room surround and mantel creates an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, as well as a landscape image above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted for an updated look or covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.
The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.
Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays 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 utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style, from traditional to modern. The choice of a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to maintain that clean and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individualized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the space.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 on the tile gives the whole space an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace, and the overall modern design of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an ideal place to test out a bold pattern which could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color gives this space an inviting and warm aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.
Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. Painting the mantel a different hue also adds warmth and character to the space. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the room's color scheme or go for something bold or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or debris.
While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking well-balanced.
Protect the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within it. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a large mirror above it to balance the appearance.