9 Signs That You re An Expert Wall Fireplace Expert

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace on the wall can create your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are a variety of models available however, it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's best to hire an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace makeover. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is bright and attractive and makes the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the gray shelves below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces make a simple but efficient way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements such as the thick casing around windows and doors, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse style, use dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is an extremely popular way to add character to rooms. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with more traditional country decor.

If you're planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace be sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all building codes to ensure safety.

Open shelving is a great option to store books and other things However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of the fireplace. The homeowners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are perfect for a fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from barns, stables 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 with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process that improves their longevity.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. For example the earthy hue of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed Wooden Fireplaces beams can add a unique touch to any space. They can be left as is or stained to match your current decor, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be placed over a freestanding gas, electric firesuite or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a burning fire.

Whatever method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the effects of electric fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but 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 in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any decor, traditional or modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the room.

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 contemporary organic style of the fireplace and 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 play around with the bold style. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The dark brown color provides this space with 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 a similar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are heat resistant and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing wall fires. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add an elegant feel to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has an existing brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to add warmth and character. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.

While white is a popular color for ethanol fireplaces and walls but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Do they use the same shade as your mantel, or is it a lighter or darker shade? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the room looking well-balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel and remove any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. After the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat with the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

While brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with in a neutral or light shade can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of art or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.