Five Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous designs available, however, so it is important to find one that meets your needs.
The output of heat, the controls, and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you choose the right 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 design tweaks the new look is vibrant and attractive and makes this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade, while the gray shelves below contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to create a simple, yet effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. Choose a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around windows and doors, to tie the look together. If you're looking for an elegant, premium look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character any room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country-style decor.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.
Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam carries with it its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks to give a rustic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patinas that increase their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden fireplaces elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy color of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood fireplace create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a painting of a landscape over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the space.
Repurposed wood beams will bring a unique look to any space. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique look. 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 be used as the central point of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without the need for a fire. They can be used to accent a mantel without a fire burning.
Whichever method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of ethanol fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, modern or traditional. The matte finish is perfect to create a polished and sleek appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be used with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the sunlight and brightening the room.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve 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 patterned tile adds a handcrafted look to the space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold style that could be intimidating in other areas of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The dark brown color creates an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.
Tiles that resemble brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to make an impact with your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces wood and can stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding elegance to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide a brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different color to add warmth and personality. Whether you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or go for something bold or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or debris.
While white is a popular color for fireplaces wooden and walls, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they have the same shade as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker hue? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the look balanced.
Before you begin painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel and remove any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat with the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of art or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.