14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Insecure To Ask About Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are a variety of models on the market, however, so it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.
The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
A dull stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace overhaul. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and striking and makes the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to make the look more cohesive. If you want an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding personality to the interior of a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Another non-combustible option you can create the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that could be a good fit with more traditional country style.
If you're planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace ensure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the fireplace and your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and complies with all codes of the local and national level.
Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things However, too many shelves could take over the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to improve the look of the room without overpowering open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. 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 is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical marks of barn wood, including nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patina that increases their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. The natural tone of pine used to create the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces, as well as an image of a landscape above the mantel.
in wall fireplace can make an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match the decor of your home or carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can also be painted for an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.
The wooden beams can be used as the central element of any fireplace. They can be set over a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a burning fire.
No matter which method of installation you choose be sure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the possible effects of fire. Both materials can be fragile in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened with a layer fire-resistant drywall. 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 enhances the space while blending with any decor style from traditional to modern. The matte finish is perfect for a polished and clean appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety of textures for a more personalized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room an authentic, rustic look while pairing beautifully with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve a fireplace's design. 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 the appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you are unsure of making a design risk in your home The fireplace is the perfect place to test an imposing design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes for a stimulating layout, and the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial decor in the room.
Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance as brick but is much simpler to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the appearance without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat resistant and therefore suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space and will look great with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to hide a brick surround on the wall of a fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to add warmth and character. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. 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.
White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. However the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. To get ideas, take a look at the trims of wood 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 the latter, choose the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking well-balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that may be hung above it. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are on or around it. 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 of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a work of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.