10 Things People Hate About Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an attractive focal point. There are a variety of models available however, it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.

The most significant features are the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and bland walls. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace shop modernizes the facade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, like thick casing around doors and windows. If you want an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add personality to the interior of a room. The same method 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.

Another non-combustible option you can use to build a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

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

Open shelving is a great option to store books and other items However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of a fireplace. For this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as accents to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process which 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 is reminiscent of an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

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

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

Regardless of which method of installation you choose be sure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products can be found 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 decor, traditional or modern. The matte finish is perfect to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the entire design of the 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 patterned tile gives the whole space an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold pattern that could be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives the room a sophisticated but lively energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial décor in this room.

Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without spending a fortune. A lot of these options are resistant to heat, making them suitable for use in the fireplace and able to stick to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted a different colour to add warmth and character. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to be handled then fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. To get rid of any debris or dirt wipe the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. To get ideas, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they have the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If you opt for the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be heavy in weight and color. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned artwork or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.