14 Common Misconceptions About Wall Fireplace
Wiki Article
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can give your living space an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of designs available but it is essential to choose one that will meet your requirements.
The heat output, the controls, and the design are among the most important features. 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 worn-out stone fireplace and dull walls made this living space in need of a drastic fireplace revamp. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasted with the gray shelves below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few changes in color.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces are paired to create a simple yet effective way to frame a fireplace surround made of tile. Choose a style of trim that contrasts with or complements the other trim elements, like the thick casing around doors and windows to tie the look together. If you're looking for an elegant, premium look, consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of an actual mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, you can use dentil trim instead.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is a common way to add character any room. The same technique can be employed to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards, however, try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.
Another non-combustible material you can use to create a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a classic option for Craft Revival-style or cottage-style homes. A rustic-looking brick can be used to enhance a traditional country style.
If you are planning to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth measures 16-18 inches from the opening of the firebox and the surround is 8 to 12 inches wide in all directions. Be sure that the material you select is safe and complies with all national and local codes.
Open shelving is a great way to store books and other items however, too many shelves can make a mess of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room designed a wall to ceiling limestone cladding in order to enhance the look without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams with a rustic appearance are ideal for a fireplace wall. They add a timeless beauty to any house. Reclaimed wood beams originate from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam is unique and has its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens or wide planks to give a rustic look. They are characterized by barn wood markings like mortise and nail holes plus a natural aging that increases their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy color of pine that accentuates the traditional mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections in the wood accent a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting which borders the fireplace's 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 give a unique appearance to any space. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved to give an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be used to highlight a mantel, even without the need for a fire. They can be used to highlight the mantel without a burning fire.
No matter which method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are protected adequately from the effects of fire. Both types of materials are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening when exposed to extreme heat, however both are able to be strengthened with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant that is sprayed on steel I-beams. These products are sold at a variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can create a dramatic statement when used as a fireplace surround. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while blending with any style of decor from traditional to modern. Choosing matte finishes for the tiles is the best way to maintain that clean and polished look while adding some color to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be used with a variety of texture choices to create a more individual look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space a classic, rustic feel while blending beautifully with natural materials like wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the room. These tiles feature a smooth and glossy finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the space.
The perfect tile pattern can enhance 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 the appearance of a hand-crafted space, and balances the modern organic style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home, the fireplace is a great place to play around with an imposing design. It could be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant yet playful feel. The hexagonal shapes are arranged like cubes for a stimulating layout, while the deep brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial style of this room.
Another method of making an impact with your fireplace is to use tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to upgrade your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. These options are heat-resistant, making them suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding style to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the best way to downplay its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted with a here different hue to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint could make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something striking.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to handle then fill them with wood putty and let it set for the appropriate amount of time. Sand the surface with 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. To remove any debris or dirt, wipe down the sanded surfaces with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular choice for fireplaces and walls but the right color can make your mantel stand out. For inspiration, examine the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings, and walls. Do they have the same shade as your mantel? Or is it a lighter or darker hue? If you decide to go with the latter, choose the color that works well with the other shades in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are on or around it. Once the mantel has been cleared and clean, wipe it with a an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.
Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel can stand up to the heat of the fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Allow the primer to completely dry, in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick may be heavy in both weight and color. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to choose a light color for your mantel, match it with a piece art with earthy tones or a large wall mirror to complement the overall look.