Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 Alternative Methods To Say Wall Fireplace

How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace

A wall fireplace will give your living room an attractive focal point. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that suits your needs.

The most significant features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to assist you in choosing the right model.

Molded Squares

A worn-out stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace makeover. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the appearance of the façade and the shelves in gray below contrast. The fireplace facade is enhanced by a few color changes.

Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to create a simple yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. To connect the look pick a trim style to contrast or match your other trim elements like thick casing around windows and doors. If you want an elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is 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 any room. The same technique can also be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.

Brick is a different non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. The rustic-look brick is an alternative that is able to blend with a more traditional, country style.

When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the brick you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.

Open shelving is a great option to organize books and other items, but too many can take over the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the appearance of the fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.

Rustic Wood Beam

Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They add timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old stables, barns and other demolished structures. Each beam is unique and has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They feature the usual barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, as well as a natural aging process that increases their longevity.

Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. Its knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair of natural-inspired wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.

Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can also be painted for a more contemporary appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbled paint.

The wooden beams are able to serve as the central element of any fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fires fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without burning fire.

Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use be sure that your wood or steel beams are properly protected from the effects of fire. Both types of material can be brittle and weaken in the face of extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of Ethonal Fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products can be found in a wide variety of home improvement stores.

White Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor choice from modern to traditional. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, while also adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.

Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space a rustic, classic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and enhances the space.

The right tile pattern can elevate the overall design of the 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 a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.

If you're not sure about taking a risk on a design in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold style which could be intimidating in other parts of your home. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown color creates an inviting and warm look that works with the industrial decor in this space.

Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to choose tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.

If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat-resistant and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add an elegant look to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.

Paint the Mantel

A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide the brick surround of a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or pick something striking.

If your mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and scratches. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled then fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.

While white is a popular color for fireplaces and walls but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you opt for the latter, choose one that blends well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.

Before you begin painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, taking out any showpieces or decorations that are hanging over it. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.

Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, as well as other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations before moving onto the main body of your fireplace wall.

While the brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color can make it look brighter and more welcoming to guests. If you decide to choose a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.