Why You Should Concentrate On Improving Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous designs available, however, so it is essential to choose one that meets your needs.
The heat output, controls, and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these aspects, it is best to hire a professional to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace inserts due to its stale stone surround and bland walls. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and attractive, making the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. A few changes in color also help the facade stand out from the wall, enhancing the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame your fireplace surround. To bring the design together select a trim design to match or contrast with the other trim elements, like thick casing around doors and windows. If you want an elegant, high-end style, choose a fluted trim to give the illusion of a mantel. Dentil trim can be used to create a rustic farmhouse style.
Accent walls with wainscoting are a popular method to add the look of a room. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Consider a paneled material such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Another non-combustible material that you can create a fireplace surround is brick, which comes in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional brick fireplace in red is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-looking brick could be used to complement a traditional country decor.
When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, it is important to be sure your hearth is 16 to 18 inches from the firebox opening and that your surround reaches 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose complies with all building codes for safety.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other things. However having too many shelves can ruin the appearance of the fireplace. The homeowners 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 make a great fireplace wall. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from barns, stables and other demolished structures. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in conjunction with wide plank ceiling panels for a fully rustic design or as a decorative element to modern kitchens. They are characterized by the typical markings of barn wood fireplace, including mortise and nail holes as well as a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. For example the earthy color of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections emphasize a hand-hewn look and compliment the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel enhance the rustic charm of this space.
Repurposed wood beams can be an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be left as is or stained to complement your current decor or carved and distressed for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a modern look, or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.
The wooden beams can be used as the focal element of any fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas or ventless or electric fireplace or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to accent the mantel with no fire burning.
Regardless of which method of installation you choose be sure that your steel or wood beams are protected from the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, but both are able to be strengthened with a layer of drywall that is fire-resistant or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are available in a wide variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether contemporary or traditional. Selecting an elegant matte finish for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look, while also adding some color to make the fireplace sparkle.
Hex tiles also work well with different textures to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that gives 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, which adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the sunlight and brightening the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate the look 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 the appearance of a hand-crafted space, while balancing the contemporary natural style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you are unsure of taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to play around with a bold design. It could be intimidating for other areas. The geometric tile with its black grout provides this area with an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown color creates an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial style of this space.
Tiles that resemble brick or other common materials is another way to create an impact with your fireplace. The textured tile, which is made by LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but has the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace's surround without costing you a dime. These tiles are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for cheap fireplaces fireplaces shop - click the following webpage - and can adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will bring an elegant look to any living space, while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is to give it fresh coats of paint. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the scheme of color in the room or pick something bold.
If your mantel is made of wood, you should first examine it for cracks, nicks, and gouges. If the dents are small enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. To get rid of any debris or dirt wipe the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.
White is a popular shade for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For ideas, take a examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Do they use the same shade as your mantel or is it a darker or lighter hue? If you opt for the latter option, select one that blends well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Clean the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that are hanging over it. If your fireplace is brick, get rid of any ornaments or pictures that are placed on or within the fireplace. When the mantel is clean then wipe it clean with a a damp cloth to clean off any soot or dust that has built up.
Apply a basecoat with the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain-resistant, so your mantel can withstand the heat of the fireplace, as well as other objects that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
While the brick is an attractive feature of a fireplace's wall it can be quite heavy and dark in color. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.
