How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will make your living space an attractive focal feature. There are a variety of models on the market but it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to seek out an expert to assist you in choosing the best model.

Molded Squares

A stale Stone Fireplaces fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace revamp. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is bright and striking and makes the hearth an important central feature in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few changes in color.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to create a simple yet effective method of framing a tile fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to tie the look together. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.

Another non-combustible option you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace inserts in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with more traditional country-style decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the electric fireplace and your surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and meets all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other things. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging which increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can provide an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden fireplaces beams can serve as the central point of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning. They can be used to illuminate the mantel, without burning fire.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use ensure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the potential effects of fire. Both materials can be 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 dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, traditional or modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the sunlight and brightening the space.

The proper tile pattern can improve the overall 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 adds a unique an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home The fireplace insert is a great spot to test the bold style. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue provides this space with an inviting, warm look that is perfect for industrial decor.

Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are heat resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant look to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide the brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. Painting the mantel a different hue also adds warmth and character to the room. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or pick something bold.

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 with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust.

While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces wooden, the right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Do they have the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter shade? If you opt for the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are located on or within it. After the mantel has been 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 is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be heavy in color and weight. 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 a earthy-toned piece of art or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.