How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can provide your living space with an eye-catching focal feature. There are a variety of models available and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.

The heat output, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you choose the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new design is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, enhancing the charm of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements like the thick casing around doors and windows to create a cohesive look. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse look, you can opt for dentil trim instead.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

Another non-combustible material that you can use to create a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to enhance a traditional country style.

When you incorporate brick in a fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other things. However, too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. The owners of this living room have created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden fireplaces beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging which increases their longevity.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. For example the earthy hue of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any room. They can be left as is or stained to complement the decor of your home or carved and distressed for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be placed over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.

Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both materials can be fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor choice, from traditional to modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for an individualized appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the room an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials like wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the space.

The appropriate tile pattern can improve the design 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 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 a great spot to play around with an imposing design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial decor.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without costing you a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending 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 fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or choose something bold.

If your mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to handle Fill them in 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 dust.

White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. However the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, choose an appropriate color to keep the space looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.

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

The brick can be heavy in color and weight. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade can make it look brighter and more inviting to guests. If you choose to paint it a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.