Five Killer Quora Answers To Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of 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 familiar with these features, it's recommended to seek out an expert to assist you in choosing the right model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its stale stone surround and dull walls. The new design is vibrant, attractive and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color variations.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to create a simple yet effective, way to frame the fireplace surround. Choose a style of trim that is in contrast with or matches the 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 create the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add character to a room. The same method can be employed to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material like tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Another non-combustible material that you can use to build the fireplace surround is brick, which comes in many different styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace with red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. Rustic-style brick is another alternative that is able to blend with more traditional country-style decor.
When you incorporate brick into a fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the opening for the fireplace and that your surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the brick you select is safe and conforms to all codes of the local and national level.
Open shelving is a great way to store books and other things however, too many shelves can make a mess of the fireplace. For this family room the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to elevate the look of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams are the perfect frame for a fireplace on the wall. They add a timeless beauty to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other buildings that were destroyed. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling panels for a completely rustic look or as an accent to modern kitchens. They are characterized by barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes, and a natural aging process that increases their durability.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The earthy tone of pine used to accent this traditional living room's surround and mantel creates an intimate country retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape painting above the mantel enhance the rustic ambiance of the room.
Repurposed wood beams will give a unique appearance to any room. They can be left as-is or stained to match your current decor, or they can be distressed and carved to give them an antique look. They can also be painted for modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like marbled paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding fireplace gas or ventless or electric fireplace, or incorporated into a stone fireplaces or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without a burning fire.
Regardless of which method of installation you choose be sure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the possible effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create an impressive statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether traditional or modern. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles can be customised with a variety of textures for an individualized look. stone fireplaces-look tile is a very popular choice that lends the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the room. These tiles have a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.
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 patterned tile gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with patterns in your home, a fireplace is an ideal place to test out a bold pattern which could be intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet playful energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes, creating a lively layout. The deep brown color creates an inviting, warm look that goes well with the industrial decor.
Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but has the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready take on a complete remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel-and-stick tile to refresh the look without breaking the bank. A majority of these options are heat resistant which means they are suitable for use in the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing stone. 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
A fresh coat of paint is the ideal method to hide the brick surround on a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint color can also add warmth and character to the space. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.
If your mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and scratches. Fill in the dents with wood putty, if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting paint, sand the surface using 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
While white is a popular color for walls and ethanol fireplaces but the right color can really make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings, and walls. Does your mantel have the same color as theirs, or is it lighter or darker? If the latter, pick an appropriate color to keep the look well-balanced.
Before you begin painting, cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that were hung above the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any pictures or ornaments that are on or within it. After the mantel has been cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.
Apply a basecoat using brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main wall of the fireplace.
The brick can be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel in an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you choose a light color for your mantel, pair it with a work of artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to complement the look.
