What Freud Can Teach Us About Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will make your living space an eye-catching focal feature. There are many different designs available however, it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.

The most significant features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the best model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace surround and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To tie the look together, choose a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements, such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for an elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, use dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add personality to the interior of a room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to create a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many 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 alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country style.

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

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create a rustic look. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets as well as a natural patina that enhances 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 shade of pine that highlights the traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as is or stained to complement the decor of your home, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without burning fire.

No matter which method of installation you choose ensure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the consequences of fire. Both types of material can become brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is ethanol fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available at most home improvement shops.

white fireplace Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any decor choice from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflects 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 patterned tile adds an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home The fireplace is the perfect place to play around with a bold design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that works with the industrial style of this room.

Tiles that look like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to make an impact with your fireplace suites. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to change the look without spending a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able stick to existing surfaces. 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 furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to cover the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. Painting the mantel a different color also adds warmth and character to the room. A new color of paint can 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 made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and scratches. If the dents aren't large enough to be able to handle 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 to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. Look at the other trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or marble fireplace is it lighter or darker? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the look balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that might have been placed over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are on or around it. Once the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior biofireplace (your input here) Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will hold up well to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

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