Five Killer Quora Answers To Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of models available so you need to pick one that meets your requirements.
The output of heat, the controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you're not aware of these features, it's best to consult a professional to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. The new style is vibrant, attractive and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior, while the gray shelves below are a contrast. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, adding the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame the tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together, choose a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you want an elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion that there is a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse look.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace inserts. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to complement a traditional country decor.
When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround reaches 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you select is safe and conforms to all local and national codes.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other objects. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. For this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the appearance of the fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea market for wood pieces that you can transform into a mantel. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accents the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of this room is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams can bring a unique look to any room. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern look 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 positioned above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or be integrated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without burning fire.
Whatever method of installation you decide to use be sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the effects of fire. Both materials can become brittle in extreme heat. However, they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
white fireplace Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces wood. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor, from traditional to modern fireplace. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also pair beautifully with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up the room.
The proper tile pattern can improve 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 adds a unique a handcrafted appeal that balances the modern organic style of the fireplace, and the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with design in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold pattern which could be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's a similar option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown hue creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial style.
Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has the same look as brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to change the appearance without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat-resistant and therefore safe for the fireplace and able to stick to the existing surface. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option for adding the look of a room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is by giving it an update of the paint. Paint the mantel in a different color also adds warmth and personality to the room. Whether you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or opt for something more striking, a new paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is made of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to be able to handle, fill them with wood putty, and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris clean the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. For ideas, take a examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Do they use the same hue as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker hue? If you opt for the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Protect the area around you by using sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Clear off the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around the fireplace made of brick. After the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat with brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other objects placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving on to the main body of your fireplace wall.
While the brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace wall, it can be heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color, consider pairing it with a earthy-toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.