A Step-By-Step Instruction For Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace will make your living space an attractive focal feature. There are many different models on the market but it is important to find one that meets your needs.
The heat output, controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to hire an expert to assist you in choosing the right model.
Molded Squares
A worn-out stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. With a few design tweaks the new look is bright and eye-catching, making the hearth an important centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the appearance of the façade while the shelves that are gray below contrast. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace stove (recommended) design.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to create a simple, yet effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Choose a style of trim that is in contrast with or matches your other trim elements such as the thick casing around windows and doors to tie the look together. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.
Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding the look of the interior of a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try using a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.
If you're planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and complies with all local and national codes.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other objects. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. In 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 wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling panels to create a rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets, plus natural patina that increases their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accents the traditional living room mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting over the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the space.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern look, or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be placed over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fire fireplace or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.
Whichever method you choose to put in your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are available at most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor, from traditional to modern. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the space an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening the space.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve the look of a fireplace insert. 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 an artistic look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about putting your faith in a pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold pattern which could be a bit intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this room a sophisticated and fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial decor in this room.
Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile, from 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 not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for fireplaces and able stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding elegance to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is to give it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted a different hue to give it a more cosy and spirited look. Whether you choose to match it to the color scheme of your room or go for something bold and striking, a fresh paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and nicks. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. To remove any debris or dirt, wipe down the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If you opt for the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Before you begin painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within it. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has accumulated.
Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can withstand the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace suites's wall it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose the lighter hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a large mirror above it to balance the look.