How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will give your living room an attractive focal area. There are a variety of models available so you need to pick one that suits your needs.
The heat output, the 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 select the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room required a dramatic
fireplace makeover due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. The new look is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior and the shelves in gray below contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to create a simple, yet effective method of framing a fireplace surround made of tile. To bring the design together pick a trim style to match or contrast with your other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking appearance.
Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to enhance a traditional country style.
If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design, make sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the brick you select is safe and complies with all local and national codes.
Open shelving is a great option to store books and other things however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. The owners of this living room have created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overpowering open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls and other buildings that were removed. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They feature the usual barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process that improves their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy color of pine that accents 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 feel, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape painting over the mantel add to the rustic charm of this space.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.
The wooden beams can serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without burning fire.
Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the possible effects of fire. Both types of materials can be brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat,
[empty] but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space while complementing any style of decor from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also go well with natural materials, such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. These tiles feature an elegant and glossy surface that reflects light beautifully and enhances the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate a fireplace's design. 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 of the tile provides an artistic look to the space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home the fireplace is a great place to play around with an imposing design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and lively energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial décor in this room.
Tile that looks like brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. A majority of these options are heat-resistant, making them safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add an
elegant fireplaces look to any living space, and will look great with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide the brick surround of the wall of a fireplace. The mantel's paint color can also add warmth and personality to the room. Whether you choose to match it with the room's color scheme or opt for something striking and striking, a fresh paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents are small enough to handle then fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To remove any dirt or debris clean the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular choice for walls and
hygge fireplaces but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the room looking balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that may have been hung over the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or
[empty] around the fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace, as well as other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.
While brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.