7 Things About Wall Fireplace You ll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
From Shiapedia
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace on the wall can create your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models available so you need to pick one that suits your needs.
The most significant features include the heat output, the appearance and the controls. If you're not aware of these elements, it's recommended to consult an expert to help you choose the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room required a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its old-fashioned stone surround and boring walls. The new design is bright, appealing and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces make a simple but effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. To tie the look together pick a trim style to match or contrast with the other trim elements like thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking for an elegant, premium look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. If you want a more rustic farmhouse style, choose to use dentil trim instead.
Accent walls with wainscoting are an extremely popular way to add personality to rooms. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard in place 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 classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to enhance a traditional country style.
If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox, and the surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all local and national construction codes for security.
Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items however, too many shelves can make a mess of a fireplace suites. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used combination with wide plank ceiling panels to create a rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They feature the typical marks of barn wood fireplaces, including nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patina that increases their durability.
Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For example, the earthy shade of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround evokes a cozy rural retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement 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 they can be covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fire fireplace, or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a burning fire.
Whichever method you decide to use to mount your beams, be sure they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the face of extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by 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 make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and complements any decor, whether modern or traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety textures for an individualized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the room an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the room.
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 patterned tile gives the entire room a a handcrafted appeal that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold design that could be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant and playful look. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color gives this space an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial decor.
Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that have the look of brick or a similar material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has the same look as traditional brick but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for electric fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option for adding the look of a room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. The mantel's paint color can also add warmth and personality to the space. Whether you choose to match it to the color scheme of your room or go for something bold, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents aren't 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 prior to painting. To get rid of any debris or dirt, wipe down the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces shop but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the wood trim, moldings and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Do they use the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker shade? If you choose the latter, choose the color that works well with the other colors in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are located on or around it. Once the mantel is cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is long-lasting and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace electric.
The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light shade for your mantel, you can pair it with a work of artwork in earthy tones, or a large wall mirror to balance out the appearance.
