15 Reasons Not To Ignore Wall Fireplace
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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room an eye-catching focal point. There are many models available, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.
Some of the most important features include the heat output as well as the appearance and controls. If you aren't familiar with these elements, it's recommended to consult an expert to help pick the right model.
Molded Squares
A dull stone fireplace and dull walls left this living space in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. With a few design tweaks, the new look is vibrant and striking making this hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color changes.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to make a simple but effective way to frame a tile fireplace surround. To bring the design together select a trim design to contrast or match the other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you're looking for a more elegant, luxurious style, think about 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.
Accent walls with wainscoting are an extremely popular way to add personality to a room. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to enhance a traditional country style.
When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all building codes for safety.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other items. However the presence of too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been removed. Each beam carries with it its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patinas that increase their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes a cozy country retreat. Its knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape 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 left as is or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can also be painted to give modern appearance or covered with faux finishes, such as marbled or rust paint.
The wooden beams can serve as the central feature of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without any fire burning. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.
Whichever method you choose to install your beams, be sure they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can be brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impact when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor, modern or traditional. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that neat and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be combined with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a very popular choice that gives the space an authentic, rustic look while blending beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.
The right tile pattern can elevate the design of a fireplace. For example, more info 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 gives the whole space an artistic look that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace, and the overall modern design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with patterns in your home, a fireplace is the perfect place to test out a bold pattern that might be a bit intimidating in other areas of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial decor in this room.
Tiles that look like brick or other common 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 is much easier to maintain and clean.
If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to refresh the appearance without breaking the bank. These options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add elegance to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is with an update of the paint. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and character to the space. If you decide to match it with the decor's color scheme or go for something bold, a new paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents are small enough to be able to handle, fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To remove any debris or dirt, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If you opt for the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel and remove any decorative pieces or displays that might be hanging above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within it. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick can be heavy in weight and color. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a large mirror above it to balance the appearance.