10 Things Everybody Hates About Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can provide your living space with an attractive focal point. There are many models available and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.
Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these elements, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you pick the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new design is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you're looking for an elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Another non-combustible option you can use to build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.
When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all national and local building codes to ensure security.
Open shelving is a great option to organize books and other items however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. For this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical marks of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes, plus natural patina that increases their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which is a part of the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern look, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.
wooden fireplaces beams can serve as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding fireplace gas, ventless or electric firesuite (stove56778.izrablog.com official website) fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.
No matter which method of installation you decide to use be sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both materials can become hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any style of decor from traditional to modern. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can also be used with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the room a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the room.
The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is a great spot to play around with an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet fun energy. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown hue creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial style of the room.
Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.
If you're hesitant to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without breaking the bank. A lot of these options are heat-resistant which means they are safe for fireplaces and able to stick to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant look to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to hide the brick surround of a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different colour to add warmth and personality. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it with the room's color scheme or opt for something more striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and nicks. If the dents are small enough to handle Fill them in with wood fireplace putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust.
While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. Take a look at the wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the look balanced.
Before you begin painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that might have been placed above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the appearance.