How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models to choose from and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The output of heat, the controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace surround and bland walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. To bring the design together pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements like thick casing around doors and windows. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse-style.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible material you can use to create the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that can fit in with more traditional country decor.

When incorporating brick into your fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all local and national building codes for security.

Open shelving is a great option to store books and other items, but too many can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The owners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes as well as natural patina that increases their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround creates an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, as well as a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match your existing decor or carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

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

No matter which method of installation you choose, make sure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material can be brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor choice from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individual look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also go well with natural materials, such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate a fireplace's design. For example, the ribbed tile on this fireplace by @lorenapulichinodesign creates an interesting visual element that pairs beautifully with the smooth, thick mantel. The patterned tile gives the whole space 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 putting your faith in a design in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold style that could be intimidating in other parts of your home. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that works with the industrial decor in the room.

Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to use tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. A majority of these options are resistant to heat, making them safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option for adding the look of a room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different color to add warmth and character. Whether you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or opt for something striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for cracks, gouges, and scratches. If the dents aren't large enough to be able 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 to rough it up. To get rid of any debris or dirt clean the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. However, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you opt for the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, taking out any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be quite heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you opt for a light shade for your mantel, match it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large mirror to complete the overall look.