How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many different designs available but it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

The output of heat, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is recommended to consult an expert to help choose the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is fresh and striking making this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces make a simple but effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a trim style that is in contrast with or matches your other trim elements like the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking to create an elegant, luxurious style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.

Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a popular 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 in place of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that could be a good fit with more traditional country-style decor.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace ensure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items, but too many can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that increases their longevity.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy hue of pine that highlights the traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that borders the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape painting above the mantel add to the rustic charm of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams can add a unique touch to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique look. They can also be painted for a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

The wooden beams can serve as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas or electric or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without burning fire.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use ensure that your steel or wood beams 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 fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether modern or traditional. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the space.

The perfect tile pattern can enhance the entire look 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 pattern on the tile gives the entire room a the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home The fireplace is a great place to experiment with an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color creates an inviting, warm look that complements the industrial style.

Tiles that look like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much simpler to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to change the look without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat-resistant and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing wall. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and personality to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is made of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents are small enough to be able to handle 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 up before painting. To remove any dirt or debris clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. However, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they use the same color as your mantel, or is it a darker or lighter hue? If you decide to go with the latter option, select one that blends well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, 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 the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.

While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in color. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece art with earthy tones or a large mirror to complement the appearance.