How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many different designs available however, it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.

Some of the most important features are the heat output along with 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

A stale stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a major fireplace makeover. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more elegant, luxurious style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.

If you are incorporating brick in a fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose conforms to all local and national building codes to ensure security.

Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other items. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They have the typical markings of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patina that increases their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. The natural tone of pine used to create this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic charm of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams can give a unique appearance to any space. They can be left as-is or stained to complement your existing decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.

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

Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials can be fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its design instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether contemporary or traditional. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace sparkle.

Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials, such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds a luxurious and fireplace elegant aesthetic to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve the design 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 adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home The fireplace is a great spot to test a bold design. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial decor in the room.

Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the look without costing you a fortune. Many of these options are heat-resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing wall. 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 an existing brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to add warmth and personality. Whether you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. To get ideas, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they use the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker shade? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the look balanced.

Protect the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that were hung over the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers 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 of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, you can pair it with a work of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the overall look.