10 Unquestionable Reasons People Hate Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall can be your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are many different models on the market, however, so it is essential to choose one that is suitable for your needs.
The heat output, controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's best to hire an expert to help you choose the right model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. With a few design tweaks, the new look is vibrant and attractive, making this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few color changes will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective way to frame a tile fireplace surround. To connect the look, choose a trim style to contrast with or complement the 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 of a mantel. If electric fireplace mantels want a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.
Accent walls with wainscoting are an extremely popular way to add personality to a room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available 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 decor.
When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and conforms to all national and local codes.
Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things However, too many shelves could make a mess of the fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam carries with it its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical markings of barn wood, such as mortise and nail holes and a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For instance the earthy hue of pine that highlights the traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the space.
Repurposed wooden beams can make an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or be integrated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.
Whatever method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the consequences of fire. Both materials can become brittle and weaken in the presence of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are sold at a variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, traditional or modern. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look, while also adding some color to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for an individual look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also go well with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.
The proper tile pattern can improve 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 patterned tile gives an artistic look to the space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home The fireplace is the perfect place to play around with an imposing design. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create a stimulating layout. The dark brown color creates an inviting, warm look that is perfect for industrial decor.
Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact on 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 much easier to clean and maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. A majority of these options are heat resistant which means they are safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different hue to add warmth and character. If you decide to match it with the room's color scheme or go for something bold or bold, a new color makes your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled then fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home for ideas. Do they use the same shade as your mantel or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If you decide to go with 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 with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that were hung above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or pictures placed around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel can withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall it can be heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel with an even or light color can make it look brighter and more inviting to guests. If you choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the look.