Five Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many different designs available however, it is important to find one that meets your needs.

The heat output, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you select the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room required a dramatic fireplace suites makeover due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is vibrant and attractive, making the hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it and contrast with the gray shelves below. A few color changes also help the facade stand out from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces create a simple, yet effective method of framing a tile fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, like the thick casing around doors and windows, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add character to the interior of a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with a more traditional, country-style 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 fireplace and your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.

Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other buildings that were destroyed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as accents to modern kitchens. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, including 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 to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. For example the earthy hue of pine that accentuates this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace insert wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to match the decor of your home or carved and distressed for an antique look. They can also be painted for an updated look or covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without any fire burning. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are sold at a variety of stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly enhances the space and is a perfect match for any decor choice from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can also be used with various textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that give the room a rustic, classic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the light and brightening the room.

The right tile pattern can elevate the design of a fireplace inserts. 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 an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

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

Tiles that look like brick or other familiar materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to traditional brick but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. A majority of these options are heat-resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant feel to any living space, and will look great with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. Painting the mantel a different color can also add warmth and character to the room. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and scratches. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or dust.

While white is a popular choice for electric fireplaces and walls but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. To get ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Do they have the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking well-balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that were hung above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will stand up well to the heat generated by the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.

The brick may be heavy in both weight and color. The mantel painted with an even or light color will make it appear more lively 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 wall mirror to balance out the overall look.