A wall fireplace can give your living space a focal point that demands attention. There are many different models on the market however, it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs.The output of heat, the controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not aware of these elements, it's best to seek out an expert to help pick the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed a dramatic fireplace makeover due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is vibrant and striking and makes this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the exterior, while the gray shelves below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a trim style that is in contrast with or matches your other trim elements, like the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for a more elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim around the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of an actual mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective way to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in various styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that could be a good fit with more traditional country decor.
When you incorporate brick in a fireplace design, you'll want to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the brick you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can obstruct the look of the fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are perfect for a fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any house. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling paneling to create a rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They have the typical barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process which increases their longevity.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to make into a fireplace. For example the earthy hue of pine that accentuates the traditional living room mantel and surround evokes an idyllic rural setting. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that surrounds the fireplace's wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape painting above the mantel enhance the rustic charm of the space.
Repurposed wood beams will add a unique touch to any room. They can be left as is or stained to complement your existing decor or cut and distressed to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning. They can be used to accent the mantel without a flame burning.
No matter which method you choose to put in your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected from the effects of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, however both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are available at most home improvement shops.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the space while blending with any decor choice from traditional to modern. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can also be combined with various textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflects light beautifully and brightens the room.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve the design of a 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 adds an artistic look to the space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a pattern risk in your home The fireplace is a great spot to experiment with the bold style. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together like cubes for a stimulating layout, and the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial decor in the room.
Tiles that look like brick or other materials you are familiar with is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready to make a major overhaul of your fireplace surround, consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update the look without breaking the bank. Many of these options are heat resistant and therefore safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing stone. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add an elegant feel to any living space, while coordinating beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the ideal way to hide the brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different hue also adds warmth and character to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or pick something striking.
If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. To remove any debris or dirt, wipe down the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular option for walls and fireplaces The right shade can really help your mantel stand out. Check out the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you opt for the latter, choose the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove the mantel, taking out any decorative pieces or displays that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within it. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or soot that has built up.
Apply a basecoat 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 be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace as well as any other objects that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
While brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace wall, it can be quite heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you opt for an unassuming color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of art in earthy tones or a large wall mirror to balance out the appearance.
