How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of models available so you need to pick one that suits your needs.

The most significant features include the output of heat, the appearance and the controls. If you’re not familiar with these elements, it’s recommended to consult an expert to help pick the right model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. The new look is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace and contrast with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace’s exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective way to frame 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 doors and windows, to tie the look together. If you’re looking to create an elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.

Wainscoting accent walls is a common method of adding the look of a room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of 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 traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.

When incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you’ll want to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose complies with all building codes for security.

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

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging that improves their longevity.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room’s surround and mantel creates the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent 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 wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the room.

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 carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern look, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas or electric or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent a mantel without a fire burning.

No matter which method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are sold at a variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether contemporary 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 be customized with a variety of textures for an individual appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an authentic, rustic look while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening 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 of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you’re unsure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace can be an ideal place to test out a bold pattern that could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial style of this space.

Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to select tiles that have the look of brick or a similar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted in a different hue to add warmth and character. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the scheme of color in the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces The right shade can make your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a examine the wood trim on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you decide to go with the latter, choose one that blends well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Cover the area around you by using a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that were hung above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on your brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or soot that has built up.

Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel can be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s recommendations before moving on to the main body of your fireplace’s wall.

The brick can be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more welcoming to guests. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror above it to balance the appearance.