Five Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace

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 designs available, however, so it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A dull stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace makeover. The new design is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements, like thick casing around windows and doors. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, choose a 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 personality to rooms. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option 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 a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country decor.

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

Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could overwhelm the look of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other structures that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets, plus a natural patina that enhances their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. For example the earthy color of pine that accentuates this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic charm of the space.

Repurposed wooden fireplaces beams can add a unique touch to any space. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern look, or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.

fireplaces wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a fire burning. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.

No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from the effects of ethanol fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while blending with any decor style, 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 customised by a variety of textures to create an individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 patterned tile gives the entire room a the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace and the overall modern 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 a bold design. It might be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial decor in this room.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based 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's surround without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are heat resistant and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best way to disguise its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. Painting the mantel a different color also adds warmth and personality to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something striking.

If your mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or dust.

While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Do they have the same color as your mantel or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking well-balanced.

Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that were hung over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or around the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleared then wipe it clean with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main body of your fireplace's wall.

The brick can be heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to go with a light color, consider pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of art or a large mirror over it to balance the look.