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 a variety of designs available, however, so it is essential to choose one that meets your needs.

The heat output, controls, and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to hire an expert to help select the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its outdated stone surround and dull walls. The new look is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color variations.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace suite surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast with or complement the other trim elements like thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking to create an elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the 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 for the fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.

If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all building codes for safety.

Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. In this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets and 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 natural tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can also be painted for modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without the need for a fire. They can be used to highlight the mantel without burning fire.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use be sure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the potential effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available at a variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace suite. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor style from traditional to modern. 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 combined with a variety of texture choices for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room an authentic, classic look. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.

The perfect tile pattern can enhance 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 patterned tile adds an artistic look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're unsure about putting your faith in a patterns in your home, a fireplace can be an ideal place to test out a bold design that could be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color provides this space with an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial style.

Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to change the look without costing you a fortune. These options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces and able stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option to add the look of a room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the most effective way to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and personality to the space. Whether 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 the mantel is made of wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and scratches. 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. To remove any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.

White is a popular shade for fireplaces electric and walls. However the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter hue? If you choose the latter, choose the color that works well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.

Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, removing any showpieces or decorations that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are on or within it. Once the mantel is empty, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has accumulated.

Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main part of your fireplace's wall.

While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.