Five Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous designs available but it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new style is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a trim style 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 for an elegant, luxurious style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any 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.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that can fit in with a more traditional, country decor.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design, make sure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all construction codes for security.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other objects. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls and other buildings that have been removed. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern fireplace kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets, plus a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic look, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of this space.

Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to match your current decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as marbled or rust paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding fireplace gas, ventless or electric fireplaces fireplace, or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.

No matter which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the consequences of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial bioethanol fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products can be found at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. The choice of matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve the design 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 a handcrafted look to the space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an ideal place to test out a bold design that could be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but lively energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown hue provides this space with an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.

Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. Many of these options are heat resistant and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to stick to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant feel to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different colour to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or pick something striking.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls but the right color can make your mantel stand out. Look at the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for ideas. Do they use the same color as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker hue? If you choose the latter, choose the color that works well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on your brick fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned artwork or a large mirror over it to balance the appearance.