How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will provide your living space with an eye-catching focal point. There are many models available, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.

Some of the most important features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is vibrant and striking making the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements such as the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular method to add character to any room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try using a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking appearance.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that can fit in with more traditional country style.

When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is compliant with all local and national building codes for security.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other items however, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood fireplaces beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens or wide planks to give an authentic look. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process that increases their durability.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accents this traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, as well as a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden fireplaces beams can provide an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can also be painted for modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbled paint.

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

Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both types of material can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are sold at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. The choice of matte finishes for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. marble fireplaces-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 pattern of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to test an imposing design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color gives this space an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial style.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without costing you a fortune. Many of these options are resistant to heat, making them safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add an elegant look to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide a brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. Painting the mantel a different hue also adds warmth and character to the space. If you decide to match it with the decor's color scheme or opt for something striking or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled then fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To remove any dirt or debris, wipe down the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces shop The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Do they use the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If the latter, pick an appropriate color to keep the space looking well-balanced.

Cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will hold up well to the heat of the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry, as per 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. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large mirror to balance out the appearance.