Undeniable Proof That You Need 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 many models available so you need to pick 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're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to consult an expert to help you choose the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the appearance of the façade while the shelves that are gray below contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces make a simple but effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, like the thick casing around windows and doors, to tie the look together. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red 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're planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox and your surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and complies with all national and local codes.
Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things, but too many can take over the appearance of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls and other buildings that have been removed. Each beam carries with it its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patinas that increase their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. The natural tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of this space.
Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left as is or stained to match your existing decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams can be used as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fire fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.
Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use ensure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found at most home improvement shops.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor choice, from traditional to modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that lends the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate the entire look 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 provides the appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home, the fireplace is a great place to test the bold style. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that works with the industrial decor in the room.
Tile that looks like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.
If you're hesitant to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to refresh the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for fireplaces shop and able adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant look to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.
If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.
White is a popular shade for Fireplaces Electric and walls. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you opt for the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Before you begin painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.
Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror above it to balance the appearance.