14 Misconceptions Commonly Held About Wall Fireplace

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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can make your living space an eye-catching focal point. There are many models available and you must pick one that suits your needs.

The heat output, the controls and the appearance are just a few of the important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

The living room in this house needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and attractive and makes this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below contrast. A few color changes also help the facade stand apart from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast with or complement your other trim elements like thick casing around windows and doors. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse look.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character any room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country style.

When incorporating brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and meets all national and local codes.

Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the appearance of the fireplace without overpowering 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 home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or with wide planks to give a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging that increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room surround and mantel creates the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can also be painted for modern appearance or covered with faux finishes, such as rust or marbled paint.

The wooden beams can be used as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. 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 properly protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can be hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while complementing any decor choice from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be combined with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the space an Stove old-fashioned, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. 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. 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 whole space a handcrafted appeal that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace, and the overall contemporary design of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace is an excellent place to try out a bold pattern that might be intimidating in other parts of the house. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this space.

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

If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to change the look without breaking the bank. Many of these options are heat resistant, making them safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to give it a more cosy and spirited look. If you decide to match it to the room's color scheme or go for something bold and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.

If your mantel is constructed of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to be handled then fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris wipe the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for inspiration. 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 look balanced.

Make sure you cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.

While brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in hue. Painting the mantel an even or light color can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose a light color, consider pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.