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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall will make your living space an eye-catching focal area. There are many different models available, however, so it is essential to choose one that is suitable for your needs.

imageThe most significant features include the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these elements, it's recommended to consult an expert to help select the best model.

Molded Squares

This living room needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is bright and striking and makes this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed electric fireplace heater mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the exterior and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the appeal of this fireplace design.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective, way to frame the fireplace surround - visit their website -. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches the other trim elements, such as the thick casing around doors and windows, to create a cohesive look. If you're looking to create an elegant, high-end look, consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.

Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic look.

Brick is another non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with more traditional country decor.

When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all building codes for security.

Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other items. However, too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other buildings that were destroyed. Each beam has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the usual barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their durability.

Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. For instance, the earthy shade of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround creates an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can add a unique touch to any space. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement the decor of your home or distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.

Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without any fire burning. They can be used to accent a mantel without a fire burning.

Whichever method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both materials can be brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at most stores for home improvement.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its design instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any style, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a very 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 a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening the room.

The proper tile pattern can enhance 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 provides an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.

If you're unsure about taking a risk on a patterns 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 the house. The geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, and the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that works with the industrial style of this room.

Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to choose tiles that have the look of brick or another popular material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much easier to maintain and clean.

Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without spending a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces and can stick to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and Fireplace Surround stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add an elegant look to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.

Paint the Mantel

When a wall fireplace has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted with a different colour to add warmth and personality. 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 made of wood, first inspect it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't enough to be able to handle, 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 up prior to painting. To remove any debris or dirt, wipe down the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.

White is a popular shade for walls and fireplaces. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. To get ideas, look at the wood trim on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Do they have the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker hue? If the latter, pick the color that is well-matched to keep the room looking well-balanced.image

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