Five Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that suits your needs.

Some of the most important features include the output of heat along with the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help choose the right model.

Molded Squares

The living room required a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is vibrant and striking, making the hearth an important central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to form a simple, yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. To tie the look together pick a trim style to contrast or match your other trim elements like thick casings around windows and doors. If you're looking to create an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse-style.

Accent walls with wainscoting are an extremely popular way to add character to a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, instead, consider a paneled material like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.

Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.

When incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and meets all national and local codes.

Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other things. However, too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that were removed. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They feature the usual barn wood markings, such as mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their longevity.

Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for wood pieces that you can repurpose into a mantel. For example the earthy color of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and an image of a landscape above the mantel.

Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be 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 like rust or marbling paint.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal point of any fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without the need for a fire. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Regardless of which method of installation you choose be sure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the possible effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products can be found at most home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor from traditional to modern. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to maintain that clean and polished look, while also adding some color to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.

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 of the tile gives the entire room a a handcrafted appeal that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace with the contemporary style of the room.

If you're not sure about putting your faith in a design in your home, a fireplace can be an ideal place to test out a bold style which could be a bit intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown hue gives this space an inviting and warm aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.

Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to use tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to change the look without spending a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will bring an elegant look to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different hue to add warmth and character. If you decide to match it to the color scheme of your room or go for something bold and striking, a fresh paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showstopper.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt, wipe down the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For inspiration, look at the trims of wood on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If the latter, choose the color that is well-matched to keep the room looking balanced.

Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, 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 lasts and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat of the fireplace and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main part of your fireplace wall.

While brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color can make it look brighter and more inviting for guests. If you opt for a light shade for your mantel, match it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the appearance.