14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Afraid To Ask About Wall Fireplace
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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are many different designs available, however, so it is essential to choose one that meets your needs.
Some of the most important features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
A worn-out stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the appearance of the façade and the shelves in gray below are a contrast. A few color changes also help the facade stand out from the wall, which enhances the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are paired to make a simple but effective way to frame the fireplace with a tile surround. To bring the design together pick a trim style to contrast or match your other trim elements like thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking for a more high-end, elegant look, use fluted trim to give the illusion that there is a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a common method of adding character to the interior of a room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a striking look.
Another non-combustible material that you can build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in a variety of styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that could be a good fit with a more traditional, country-style decor.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into the design of your fireplace, make sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the fireplace and the surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and meets all local and national codes.
Open shelving can be an ideal way to store books and other objects. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls, and other structures that were destroyed. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as accents to modern kitchens. They have the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes, plus natural patinas that increase their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements that can be used for a mantel or an accent wall. The natural tone of pine used to create this traditional living room surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to match the decor of your home, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams are able to serve as the focal feature of any fireplace. They can be set over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to highlight the mantel without burning fire.
No matter which method you choose to install your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on steel I-beams. These products are available in a wide variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impact when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor style, from traditional to modern. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives the space a classic, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles, which adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the sunlight and brightening the space.
The proper tile pattern can improve the entire look 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 patterned tile gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk on a design in UK Fireplaces your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold pattern which could be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and fun energy. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes to create a fascinating layout, while the deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in the room.
Tiles that look like brick or other familiar materials is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to traditional brick, but is much easier to clean and maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace's surround without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are heat resistant which means they are suitable for use in the fireplace and able to stick to the existing stone. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a great option to add elegance to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is with an update of the paint. The mantel can be painted with a different hue to add warmth and character. If you decide to match it to the color scheme of your room or opt for something more striking or bold, a new color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks and scratches. If the dents aren't large enough to handle Fill them in with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface using a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.
While white is a popular color for walls and fireplaces but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. To get ideas, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Do they use the same shade as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If you decide to go with the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Make sure you cover the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or around the fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any soot or dust.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace, and any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, as per the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
The brick can be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the appearance.