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, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.

Some of the most important features include the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you’re not aware of these aspects, it is best to hire an expert to help select the best model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace makeover. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the appearance of the façade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. The fireplace’s facade is accentuated by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements like the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you prefer a more high-end, elegant style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add personality to the interior of a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible option you can use to build the fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country style.

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

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things However, too many shelves could take over the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical barn wood fireplace markings, like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that increases their longevity.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround creates an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a painting of a landscape over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the space.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. 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 can serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without the need for a fire. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can be brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any style of decor, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with a variety of texture choices for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that lends the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens 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 patterned tile gives the entire room a the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace, and the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you’re not sure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold pattern which could be intimidating in other parts of your home. This geometric tile (here’s a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color gives this space an inviting and warm aesthetic that goes well with the industrial style.

Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to use tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you’re not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace’s surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to refresh the look without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat-resistant, making them safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space and will look great with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. The mantel’s paint color can also add warmth and personality to the space. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents using 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 to roughen it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. For inspiration, look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you opt for the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on the brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.

The brick can be quite heavy in both weight and color. Painting the mantel in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to balance out the appearance.