9 Signs You re A Wall Fireplace Expert
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an eye-catching focal area. There are numerous models on the market, however, so it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.
Some of the most important features include the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out a professional to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and boring walls. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is vibrant and attractive and makes the hearth an important centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior, while the gray shelves below are a contrast. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few changes in color.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around windows and doors to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Wood Fireplace Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all national and local construction codes for safety.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other items. However, too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create a rustic look. They have the typical marks of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. For example the earthy hue of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround creates an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any space. They can be left as-is or stained to complement your existing decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. 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 serve as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas, ventless or Electric firesuite fireplace or be integrated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel, without burning fire.
No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can become hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold at most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style, whether modern or traditional. The matte finish is perfect to create a polished and sleek appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be used with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature an elegant and glossy surface that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.
The right tile pattern can elevate the overall design 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 gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you're not sure 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 room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue gives this space an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial style.
Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and modern Fireplace maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat, making them suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add elegance to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is with fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint can 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 constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
White is a favorite color for walls and cheap fireplaces. But, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Do they use the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter hue? If the latter, pick the color that is well-matched to keep the look balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or photos placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel can be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main body of your fireplace's wall.
The brick can be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color, consider pairing it with an earthy-toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.