How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will give your living room an attractive focal point. There are a variety of designs available however, it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you choose the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace inserts and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the exterior while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to match or contrast with your other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you prefer a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.

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

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as 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. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country style.

When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all local and national construction codes for safety.

Open shelving is a great option to organize books and other items however, too many shelves can take over the appearance of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been destroyed. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood fireplace can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes and a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room's mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting over the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted for a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be placed over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without burning fire.

Whatever method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both types of material can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any decor, modern or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the room a rustic, classic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 of the tile adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the overall modern design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold design which could be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes, creating a lively layout. The dark brown color creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.

Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to select tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace stove's surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to refresh the appearance without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant look to any living space and will look great with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is with fresh coats of paint. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To remove any debris or dirt clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Do they have the same color as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker shade? If you opt for the latter option, select the color that works well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are located on or around it. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean 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, so your mantel will hold up well to the heat generated by the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with an even or light color can make it look brighter and more inviting for guests. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to balance the look.