11 Creative Methods To Write About Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can make your living space an eye-catching focal feature. There are many models available so you need to pick one that is suitable for your needs.

Some of the most important features are the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help you pick the right model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. With a few tweaks to the design, the new look is fresh and eye-catching making this hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. To tie the look together pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements like thick casing around doors and windows. If you want a more high-end, elegant look, use fluted trim to create 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 an extremely popular way to add the look of a room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

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

Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can ruin the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams come from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam carries with it its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They are characterized by barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging that increases their durability.

Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. The natural tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the electric wall fireplace of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement your current decor or carved and distressed for an antique look. They can also be painted for a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without any fire burning. They can be used to enhance the mantel, without burning fire.

Whichever method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor from modern to traditional. The choice of a matte finish for the tiles is ideal to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that provides a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the space.

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 pattern on the tile adds a unique an artistic look that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with patterns in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold design which could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color provides this space with an inviting, warm look that is perfect for industrial decor.

Tiles that look like brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact with your freestanding fireplace. The textured tile, which is 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 not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the look without costing you a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat 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 a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or pick something striking.

If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and scratches. If the dents aren't enough to be able to handle Fill them in with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can make your mantel stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Do they have the same shade as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter hue? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking well-balanced.

Protect the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, removing any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.

The brick can be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to complement the look.