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 space an element of interest that demands attention. There are numerous models to choose from, so you should choose one that is suitable for your needs.
The most significant features include the heat output along with the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
A stale stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a major fireplace makeover. With a few design tweaks, the new look is vibrant and striking making the hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace mantel as well as contemporary artwork above the fireplace update the appearance of the façade, while the gray shelves below contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces combine to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements, such as the thick casing around windows and doors, to tie the look together. If you're looking for a more high-end, elegant 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 common method of adding personality to rooms. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.
If you're planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design be sure that your hearth measures 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all national and local building codes to ensure security.
Open shelving is a great way of storing books and other objects. However the presence of too many shelves can overwhelm the appearance of the fireplace. The owners of this family room designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic look make a great fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are reclaimed from old barns, stalls and other buildings that have been destroyed. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used in combination with wide plank ceiling paneling for a fully rustic design or as accents to modern kitchens. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets, plus a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Search architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to make into a fireplace. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accents the traditional mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent the hand-crafted appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of the space is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces and a landscape image above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give modern appearance, or they can be covered with faux finishes like rust or marbled paint.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without the need for a fire. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.
No matter which method of installation you choose ensure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the possible effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however 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 at a variety of home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make an impressive statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly enhances the space while blending with any decor choice from traditional to modern. Choosing an elegant matte finish for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles can also be used with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the space an authentic, classic look. They also go well with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another timeless option that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the room. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that reflects light beautifully and enhances the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate the entire look 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 style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with patterns in your home, a fireplace can be an excellent place to try out a bold pattern that might be intimidating in other areas of your home. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give the room a sophisticated but lively energy. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown hue creates an inviting and warm look that complements the industrial style of the room.
Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to choose tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This pattern-based tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar appearance to traditional brick, but is much simpler to maintain and clean.
Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without costing you a dime. A majority of these options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for use in the fireplace and able to be affixed to the existing surface. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space and will look great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide a brick surround on an unwall-mounted fireplace. Paint the mantel in a different color also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the overall color scheme of the room or pick something striking.
If the mantel is made of 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. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up prior to painting. Clean the surface using a damp cloth to take off any remaining dirt or dust.
While white is a popular choice for walls and fireplaces but the right color can really help your mantel stand out. For inspiration, look at the wood trims on your bookcases, moldings and walls. Do they use the same shade as your mantel, or is it fire place UK a lighter or a darker shade? If the latter, choose the color that is well-matched to keep the space looking well-balanced.
Make sure you cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth prior to when you begin painting. 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 on or within it. When the mantel is clean, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean off any dust or soot that has built up.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with a brush or roller. The semi-gloss finish lasts and stain-resistant, so your mantel will hold up well to the heat generated by the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to moving onto the main part of your fireplace's wall.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall it can be quite heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel with a light color or neutral to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you choose to paint it a light hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to balance the appearance.