7 Things About Wall Fireplace You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Wiki Article
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room an eye-catching focal point. There are many models available, so you should choose one that meets your requirements.
Some of the most important features include the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's recommended to consult a professional to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace surround and bland walls made this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new look is bright, appealing and makes the hearth the center of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernize the facade, while the gray shelves below are a contrast. A few changes in color also help the facade stand apart from the wall, enhancing the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements the other trim elements, like the thick casing around windows and doors to tie the look together. If you're looking for a more elegant, premium style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, you can choose to use dentil trim instead.
Making an accent wall using wainscoting is a common way to add character to any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, you can try using a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard to create a striking look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It is available in different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a classic option for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to complement a traditional country decor.
When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and conforms to all local and national codes.
Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other things. However having too many shelves can ruin the look of a fireplace. The owners of this family room created a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming 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 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 completely rustic look or as accents to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes and a natural aging process that improves their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to repurpose into a mantel. For example, the earthy shade of pine that accents this traditional living room mantel and surround creates the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. Its knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance, and they complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting on the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting above the mantel add to the rustic charm of this space.
Repurposed wooden beams can make an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved to give an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes, such as marbled paint or rust.
The wooden beams can serve as the central point of any fireplace. They can be positioned over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight a mantel without a fire burning.
Regardless of which 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 materials can be brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, but both can be strengthened by a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products can be found at most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its design instantly brightens the room and complements any decor, contemporary or traditional. The choice of a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look, while adding some color to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a favorite that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to the space. These tiles have a glossy and smooth finish that reflect 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 patterned tile adds a handcrafted look to the space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're not sure about putting your faith in a design in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold design that could be intimidating in other parts of the house. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this Stove UK area with an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes work like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown hue creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that works with the industrial décor in this room.
Another option to make an impact with your fireplace is to use tile that resembles the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick however, it is much easier to maintain and clean.
If you're hesitant to take on a complete remodel of your fireplace surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to change the appearance without breaking the bank. These tiles are resistant to heat which makes them suitable for fireplaces and able be bonded to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add style to any room. It also works beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to disguise its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel can be painted a different colour to give it a more cosy and spirited look. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or pick something striking.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and nicks. Fill in the dents with wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the period recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
White is a popular shade for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other wood trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get inspiration. Do they use the same color as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker shade? If you choose the latter option, pick the color that works well with the other hues in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. If your fireplace is made of brick, take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or within the fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it clean to get rid of any dust or soot.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting 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 items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick may be heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel with a light or neutral color will make it appear more lively and more inviting for guests. If you choose to paint it a light color, consider using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of art or a large mirror above it to create a balanced look.