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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are many different models on the market however, it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.

The heat output, controls, and the design are just a few of the important features. If you aren't familiar with these features, it's best to hire a professional to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a major fireplace makeover. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is bright and attractive, making the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective method of framing a tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around windows and doors, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, you can use dentil trim instead.

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

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

If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your ethanol fireplace be sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all building codes for security.

Open shelving can be excellent for storing books and other items. However the presence of too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patina that increases their durability.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. The rustic tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room surround and mantel creates the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will bring a unique look to any room. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

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

Regardless of which method of installation you choose, make sure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the potential consequences of electric fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that lends the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. marble fireplace-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances 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 adds a unique an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace, and the overall modern design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold design that could be intimidating in other parts of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that works with the industrial décor in this room.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat-resistant, making them safe for fireplaces and able to stick to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant feel to any living space and will look great with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the overall color scheme of the room or pick something striking.

If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and scratches. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To remove any dirt or debris clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you decide to go with the latter, choose the color that works well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are on or within it. Once the mantel has been cleared, wipe it down with the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has built up.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

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