Notes

The Advanced Guide To Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will make your living space an eye-catching focal area. There are a variety of models available, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.


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 best to hire an expert to help you select the best model.

Molded Squares

A stale stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace revamp. With a few design tweaks the new look is bright and eye-catching making the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace and contrast with the shelves in gray 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 are combined to form a simple, yet effective way to frame your fireplace surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements like thick casings around doors and windows. If you want a more elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic, farmhouse-style.

The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try using a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.

Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country style.

When you incorporate brick in a fireplace design, you'll need to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose is safe and meets all local and national codes.

Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other things. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of a fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style make a great fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create an authentic appearance. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process which increases their longevity.

Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for wood pieces that you can make into a fireplace. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that highlights this traditional living room mantel and surround is reminiscent of an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that borders the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of this space.

Repurposed wooden beams will add a unique touch to any room. They can be left as is or stained to match your existing decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary appearance, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.

Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.

Whatever method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your wood or steel beams are protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor choice from traditional to modern. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance, while also adding a pop of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.

Hex tiles can also be used with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an authentic, rustic look while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the room.

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 gives an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is a great place to experiment with an imposing design. It could be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The dark brown color gives this space an inviting, warm look that is perfect for industrial decor.

Tile that looks like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to create an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, but is much easier to clean and maintain.

Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces as well as able to be bonded to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option for adding the look of a room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is by giving it fresh coats of paint. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or pick something bold.

If your mantel is constructed from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If Fireplaces And Stove aren't large enough to be handled then fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or dust.

White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a examine the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they have the same hue as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter hue? If the latter, pick the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any soot or dust.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat of the fireplace and any other objects placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. Painting the mantel in a neutral or light shade will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you opt for a light shade for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the appearance.

Read More: https://www.fireplacesandstove.com/categories/media-wall-electric-fires