7 Things About Wall Fireplace You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Wiki Article
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace will provide your living space with an eye-catching focal area. There are many models available, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.
The heat output, the controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these aspects, it is recommended to consult a professional to help you pick the right model.
Molded Squares
A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace revamp. The new look is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the exterior while the shelves that are gray below provide a stark contrast. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color changes.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple yet effective, way to frame your fireplace surround. To bring the design together, choose a trim style to contrast or match the other trim elements such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you prefer a more elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, use dentil trim instead.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add the look of the interior of a room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try using a paneled material such as beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It comes in various styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for cottage-style or Craft-Revival-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to enhance a traditional country style.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth is 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material complies with all local and national construction codes for security.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other objects. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls, and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam carries with it its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as accents to modern kitchens. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, like mortise and nail holes as well as natural patinas that increase their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to repurpose for a mantel or an accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room surround and mantel evokes an intimate country retreat. Its knotty imperfections give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a painting of a landscape over the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the space.
Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current design or carved to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted for an updated look or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.
Wooden beams can be used as Fireplaces And Stoves a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be positioned above a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without burning fire.
Whatever method of installation you decide to use be sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the consequences 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 are available at most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any style of decor, from traditional to modern. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customized with a variety textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens 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 pattern of the tile gives the whole space the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace and the overall modern design of the room.
If you're unsure about putting your faith in a design in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold style that might be intimidating in other areas of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown hue creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial decor in the room.
Tile that looks like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
If you're not ready make a major overhaul of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to refresh the look without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat, making them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great alternative that will add an elegant look to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best method to hide the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted a different colour to add warmth and personality. It doesn't matter if you choose to match it to the color scheme of your room or opt for something striking, a new paint color makes your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
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 be handled, 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 get rid of any debris or dirt wipe the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular option for fireplaces and walls but the right color can make your mantel stand out. Look at the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Do they use the same hue as your mantel, or is it a lighter or darker hue? If so, select the color that is well-matched to keep the look well-balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or within the fireplace. After the mantel has been cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will stand up to the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
The brick may be heavy in both weight and color. The mantel painted with a light or neutral color can make it appear brighter and more inviting to guests. If you decide to choose a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complete the look.