So You’ve Bought Wall Fireplace … Now What?

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market however, it is crucial to choose one that will meet your requirements.

Some of the most important features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you’re not aware of these aspects, it is best to hire an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. The new style is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade, while the gray shelves below contrast. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple, yet efficient way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To tie the look together, choose a trim style to contrast or match the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you’re looking for a more elegant, premium look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled material like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.

Another non-combustible material that you can build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

When incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you’ll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other things. However, too many shelves can obstruct the look of the fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They have the typical markings of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes as well as natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. For instance the earthy color of pine that accentuates this traditional living room mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace’s wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of the room.

Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can also be painted for 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 placed over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fire fireplace, or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without burning fire.

No matter which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the possible effects of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products are available at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space while blending with any decor choice, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect to create a polished and sleek look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with different textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room a rustic, classic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the look 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 provides the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design 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 a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown hue provides this space with an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.

Tiles that look like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much simpler to clean and maintain.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace’s surround without costing you a dime. These tiles are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding the look of a room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal way to hide the brick surround of a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel’s paint color also adds warmth and character to the space. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or pick something striking.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren’t enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. To remove any debris or dirt clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings, 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 colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within it. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or soot that has accumulated.

Apply a base coat 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 is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. The mantel painted with an even or light color can make it look brighter and more inviting for guests. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.