An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Wall Fireplace
Wiki Article
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace will make your living space an attractive focal point. There are many models available, so you should choose one that suits your needs.
The heat output, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to seek out an expert to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls created a living space that was in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above the fireplace's facade modernize it while contrasting with the gray shelves below. A few changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out 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 your fireplace surround. To tie the look together, 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 look, use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse style.
Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add personality to the interior of a room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It comes in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that could be a good fit with more traditional country-style decor.
When incorporating brick into your fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all local and national building codes to ensure safety.
Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of a fireplace. For this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They bring a timeless appeal to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural aging that improves their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. For instance the earthy color of pine that accentuates this traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match the decor of your home or distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.
Whatever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether contemporary here or traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles also work well with a variety of texture choices for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also go well with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that reflects light beautifully and brightens the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate the entire 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. The pattern of the tile provides the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to play around with a bold design. It can be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color gives this space an inviting and warm aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.
Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to use tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. These tiles are resistant to heat and therefore suitable for fireplaces and can stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option for adding the look of a room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the most effective method to hide the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different colour to give it a more cosy and spirited look. Whether you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or go for something bold and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be able to handle then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To get rid of any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.
White is a popular color for fireplaces and walls. But the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for inspiration. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, choose a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove the mantel, removing any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. Remove any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat with a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, which means 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 recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.
The brick can be quite heavy in color and weight. Painting the mantel a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose a light hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the look.