15 Reasons To Not Ignore Wall Fireplace
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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models on the market but it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.
The most significant features are the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you aren't familiar with these aspects, it is best to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.
Molded Squares
This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its old-fashioned stone surround and bland walls. The new look is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's facade is accentuated by a few color variations.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to tie the look together. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It comes in various styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.
If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and conforms to all national and local codes.
Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items however, too many shelves can take over 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 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 house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes, plus natural patina that increases their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose into a mantel. For example the earthy color of pine that accents this traditional living room mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. Its knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair inspired by nature wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted for a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes such as marbled paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without burning fire.
Whatever method of installation you decide to use be sure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the possible consequences of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its design instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is ideal to create a polished and sleek appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
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 old-fashioned, rustic feel while pairing beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.
The proper tile pattern can enhance the look 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 patterned tile adds a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to test a bold design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to read more create a fascinating layout, while the dark brown hue creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial decor in this space.
Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has the same look as traditional brick but with the benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option for adding elegance to any 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 of a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and character to the room. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something bold.
If the mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks, and scratches. If the dents are small enough to be able to handle Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker shade? If so, select a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that were hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within the fireplace. 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 brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel will stand up well to the heat from the fireplace, as well as other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick can be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you choose to paint it the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.