5 Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models to choose from and you must pick one that suits your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you aren't familiar with these elements, it's best to hire a professional to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace makeover. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and attractive, making this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective, way to frame the tile 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 create a cohesive look. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add personality to the interior of a room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to create a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

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 firebox, and the surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all building codes to ensure security.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other buildings that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic appearance. They feature the usual barn wood fireplaces markings like mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging which increases their longevity.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that accents the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood fireplaces give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace stove's wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and 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 design or carved to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the central point of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without any fire burning. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

Whichever method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individual appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also go well with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening up the space.

The perfect tile pattern can enhance the entire design of the fireplace. For example, the ribbed tile on this fireplace inserts by @lorenapulichinodesign creates an interesting visual element that pairs beautifully with the smooth, thick mantel. The patterned tile gives a handcrafted look to the space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is a great spot to play around with an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial decor in the room.

Tiles that look like brick or other common materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

If you're not ready to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to update the look without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and can stick to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to hide the brick surround of a wall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and character to the space. Whether you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or opt for something striking and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled, fill them with wood fireplaces putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust.

While white is a popular color for fireplaces and walls but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases around your home for ideas. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clean the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is empty, wipe it down with the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace and any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece of art with earthy tones or a large mirror to complete the appearance.