How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are a variety of models available and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you choose the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is vibrant and eye-catching, making this hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the gray shelves below. The bio-Ethanol fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse-style.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add the look 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 appearance.

Another non-combustible material you can use to build a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in wall fireplace red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country-style decor.

If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure 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 the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls and other buildings that were removed. Each beam carries with it its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a fully rustic design or as an accent to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process that improves their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any space. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for 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 with no fire burning.

No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style, whether contemporary or traditional. Selecting a 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 also be used with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space an authentic, rustic look while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening up the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate 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 gives a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold style that could be intimidating in other parts of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color gives this space an inviting, warm look that is perfect for industrial decor.

Another way to make an impact with your fireplace is to use tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without spending a fortune. A lot of these options are resistant to heat and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant look to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to add warmth and character. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or pick something bold.

If the mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents are small enough to be able to handle Fill them in with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a favorite color for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade can make your mantel really stand out. To get ideas, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they use the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or Bio-Ethanol Fireplace a darker shade? If you decide to go with the latter option, select one that blends well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.

While brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, match it with a work of art with earthy tones or a large mirror to balance out the look.