How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.

The heat output, the controls, and the design are just a few of the important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's recommended to consult an expert to help select 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, eye-catching and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the beauty of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to contrast with or complement your other trim elements like thick casings around doors and windows. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.

Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding personality to rooms. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available 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 more traditional country style.

If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace ensure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and your surround is between 8 and fireplacesandstoves 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all building codes for safety.

Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items, but too many can make a mess of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look of the new 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 home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been demolished. Each beam carries with it its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process that increases their longevity.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to make into a fireplace. For instance the earthy color of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of a cozy rural retreat. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a burning fire.

Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can be brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, 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 at most home improvement shops.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space and is a perfect match for any decor choice from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the room.

The perfect tile pattern can enhance 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 pattern on the tile adds a unique an artistic look that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.

If you are unsure of taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to play around with an imposing design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color gives this space a warm, inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial decor.

Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for fireplaces as well as able to stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding elegance to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the room. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to be able to handle then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls The right shade can really make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, 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 darker hue? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick one that blends well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or within it. Once the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to balance out the appearance.