A wall fireplace will make your living space an eye-catching focal point. There are many models available and fireplacesandstove you must pick one that meets your requirements.The most significant features include the output of heat along with 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 dull stone fireplace and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a major fireplace makeover. With a few design tweaks, the new look is vibrant and attractive making the hearth an important central feature in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior and the shelves in gray below contrast. A few changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces are combined to make a simple but effective method of framing the fireplace with a tile surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or matches your other trim elements, for example, the thick casing around windows and doors to tie the look together. 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 a real mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse-style.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a common method to add character to any room. The same technique can be used 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 dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option for the fireplace surround. It is available in various styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace in red is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-style brick is another option that could be a good fit with more traditional country style.
When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all local and national building codes to ensure safety.
Open shelving is excellent for storing books and other objects. However, too many shelves can overwhelm the look of the fireplace. The owners of this living room have created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to improve the look of the room without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They are timeless and beautiful to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other buildings that have been removed. Each beam has its own unique story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or with wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes, plus a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. The rustic tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room's surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. Its knotty imperfections emphasize the hand-crafted look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape painting above the mantel enhance the rustic coziness of the space.
Repurposed wooden beams will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes like marbling paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas or electric or ventless fireplace or they can be incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without burning fire.
Whatever method you choose to put in your beams, make sure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on I-beams made of steel. 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 surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the space while blending with any style of decor from traditional to modern. The choice of matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can also be used with various textures for a more customized 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 appearance to the room. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting sunlight and brightening the room.
The proper tile pattern can enhance a fireplace's design. 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 an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're not sure about making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to test an imposing design. It might be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines gives this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown color provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that complements the industrial decor in the room.
Tiles that look like brick or other common materials is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has the same look as traditional brick but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to update the look without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding elegance to any 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 to give it fresh coats of paint. Paint the mantel in a different color can also add warmth and character to the space. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.
If your mantel is made of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it prior to painting. To remove any dirt or debris wipe the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. For inspiration, look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they have the same shade as your mantel or is it a lighter or darker hue? If you opt for the latter option, select the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Make sure you cover the area around you with a dropcloth or sheets before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any pictures or ornaments that are placed on or within it. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with an damp cloth to wash off any soot or dust that has built up.
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 lasts and stain-resistant, which means your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main part of your fireplace's wall.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall it can be a bit heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you decide to go with the lighter hue, think about pairing it with a earthy-toned piece of artwork or a large mirror above it to balance the appearance.
