10 Things People Hate About Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace will provide your living space with an attractive focal feature. There are many models available, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.
The heat output, controls, and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you choose the best model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new look is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace inserts mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the facade while the shelves that are gray below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. To connect the look, choose a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.
Accent walls with wainscoting are 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 using a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking appearance.
Another non-combustible option you can use to build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country style.
When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all local and national building codes for safety.
Open shelving can be excellent for storing books and other things. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a fireplace on the wall fires (visit the site). They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling for a fully rustic design or as accents to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes and natural patinas that increase their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to make into a fireplace. The natural tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, as well as a landscape image above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden fireplaces beams can bring a unique look to any space. They can be left as-is or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can also be painted for modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as marbled paint or rust.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight the mantel without a flame burning.
Whichever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can become hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found 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 and is a perfect match for any decor choice, from traditional to modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room a classic, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 whole space an artistic look that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with design in your home, a fireplace can be an ideal place to test out a bold style that might be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial decor in the room.
Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but has the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to refresh the look without spending a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and can be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective way to hide the brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it with the color scheme of your room or go for something bold or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.
If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls, the right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, Ethonal Fire examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel and remove any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has built up.
Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat of the fireplace, as well as 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.
The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to complement the overall look.