How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are many models available, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and dull walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is fresh and striking making the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. A few color changes can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple, yet effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to contrast or match your other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace stove to give the appearance of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add character to a room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards instead, consider using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.

Another non-combustible option you can build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that could be a good fit with more traditional country style.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches 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 local and national codes.

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

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood fireplaces can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes as well as natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. The natural tone of pine used to create this traditional living room surround and mantel creates the feeling of a cozy country getaway. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any room. They can be left as-is or stained to complement your current decor or cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.

Whatever method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can become hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. 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 tile can make an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, traditional or modern fireplace. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for a more personalized look. stone fireplaces-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the entire 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 provides a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to test an imposing design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial style of this room.

Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

If you're not ready to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding the look of a room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks and scratches. 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 you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the look balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the brick fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, use 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 using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Painting the mantel an even or light color will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror over it to create a balanced look.