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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will make your living space an eye-catching focal feature. There are numerous models available, however, so it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room required an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new look is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the exterior while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. A few changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple yet efficient way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Choose a style of trim that is in contrast with or matches your other trim elements like the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking to create an elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking appearance.

Another non-combustible option you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A classic brick Tabletop Fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and complies with all national and local codes.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overpowering open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical marks of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets and a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to create this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, as well as an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

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

Whichever method you decide to use to mount your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However, they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the room and complements any style, whether contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room a rustic, classic feel. They also go well with natural materials, such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 adds an artistic look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a pattern risk in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to test an imposing design. It can be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial style of this space.

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, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but has the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding elegance to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and scratches. If the dents are small enough to be handled then 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. To remove any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a popular shade for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Do they have 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 room looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that may be hung above it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around your brick fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you choose to paint it a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to balance the look.