20 Fun Facts About Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall will make your living space an attractive focal point. There are many different models on the market but it is important to find one that meets your needs.
The most significant features are the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to assist you in choosing the right model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace revamp. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace facade 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 surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around windows and doors to make the look more cohesive. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Another non-combustible material that you can build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red 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.
If you are incorporating brick in a fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the brick you select is safe and complies with all codes of the local and national level.
Open shelving is a great option to store books and other items, but too many can make a mess of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets, plus a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. The natural tone of pine used to create the traditional living room surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any space. 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 they can be covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a fire burning. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.
No matter which method of installation you choose be sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any decor, whether modern or traditional. 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 be customized with a variety textures for an individual appearance. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the room.
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. ethanol fireplaces of the tile provides the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is a great place to play around with an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown hue creates an inviting, warm look that is perfect for industrial decor.
Tile that looks like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to update the look without costing you a fortune. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, and will look great with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best method to cover the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and character to the room. If you decide to match it with the decor's color scheme or opt for something more striking, a new paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
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're small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If so, select an appropriate color to keep the room looking well-balanced.
Protect the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clean the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat from the fireplace and any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
While the brick is a striking feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with an even or light color will make it appear more lively and more welcoming to guests. If you choose a light shade for your mantel, match it with a work of artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to balance out the appearance.