5 Killer Quora Answers To Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall ethanol fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that suits your needs.
The most significant features include the output of heat along with the appearance and controls. If you aren't familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help choose the right model.
Molded Squares
This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its old-fashioned stone surround and bland walls. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color changes.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to create a simple yet effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, like the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more 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-style.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character any room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect 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 your fireplace design, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all national and local construction codes for security.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can ruin the appearance of a fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the appearance of the fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create an authentic appearance. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes as well as natural patinas that increase their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. The natural tone of pine used to create this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of this space.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without any fire burning. They can be used to accent a mantel without a fire burning.
Whatever method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor, from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles also work well with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate the entire look 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 entire room a the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace, and the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to test the bold style. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and fun energy. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this space.
Tiles that look like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, however, it is much easier to clean and maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace's surround without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option for adding the look of a room. It also looks great 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 a fresh coat of paint. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and personality to the space. If you decide to match it to the room's color scheme or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for cracks, gouges, and nicks. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Do they use the same shade as your mantel, or is it a darker or lighter hue? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking well-balanced.
Before you begin painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, removing any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is empty, wipe it down with an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has accumulated.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main part of your fireplace suite wall.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be heavy and dark in color. Painting the mantel in a neutral or light shade can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art with earthy tones or a large mirror to complete the appearance.