Five Things Everybody Gets Wrong Regarding Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are numerous designs available, however, so it is important to find one that meets your needs.
The heat output, the controls, and the design are among the most important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to seek out an expert to assist you in choosing the right model.
Molded Squares
This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks, the new look is bright and striking making the hearth an important centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the gray shelves below. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective way to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around windows and doors to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add the look of the interior of a room. The same technique can be used to frame the electric fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled material like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a 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. A rustic-looking brick could be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.
If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening for the electric fireplace and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material is compliant with all local and national building codes to ensure security.
Open shelving is a great option to store books and other items, but too many can take over the appearance of a fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are perfect for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless look to any home. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and Electric Firesuite has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks to give an authentic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes and natural patinas that increase their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use as a mantel or accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the wall of the fireplace. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a painting of a landscape above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of the space.
Repurposed wooden beams can make an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance, or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without any fire burning. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.
Whatever method you decide to use to mount your beams, make sure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened by a layer of ethanol fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor style from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customized by a variety of textures to create an individualized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that give the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the room. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate the entire 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 on the tile gives the entire room a an artistic look that balances the organic modern style of the fireplace and the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is the perfect place to experiment with a bold design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color gives this space a warm, inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial style.
Another method of making a statement with your fireplace is to use tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to update your fireplace surround without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are resistant to heat which means they are safe for fireplaces and able to stick to the existing wall. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add the look of a room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different colour to add warmth and character. 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 striking.
If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to handle then fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. To remove any debris or dirt clean the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade can make your fireplace stand out. Take a look at the trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home for ideas. Do they use the same hue as your mantel? Or is it a darker or lighter hue? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the look well-balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, removing any showpieces or decorations that might be hanging above it. If your tabletop fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or within it. Once the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any soot or dust.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, as well as other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.
The brick may be heavy in weight and color. The mantel painted with in a neutral or light shade can make it look brighter and more inviting for guests. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to complement the appearance.