5 Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace
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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace can make your living space an eye-catching focal point. There are many different models available but it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.
The output of heat, the controls and the appearance are some of the most important features. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to hire an expert to help you choose the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room in this house needed an overhaul to the fireplace due to its stale stone surround and boring walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is bright and striking and makes this hearth a focal point in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. A few color changes will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, enhancing the charm of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective, way to frame the fireplace surround. To tie the look together pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements like thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end look, 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 an extremely popular way to add personality to rooms. The same technique can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard in place of plank boards to create a dramatic look.
Brick is a different non-combustible option for a fireplace surround. It comes in different styles and colors. A classic brick fireplace with red accents is ideal for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. Rustic-look brick is also an option that can fit in with more traditional country decor.
If you are incorporating brick into your fireplace design, you'll need to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that the surround extends 8-12 inches in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all national and local building codes for security.
Open shelving is an ideal way to store books and other items. However the presence of too many shelves can obstruct the appearance of a fireplace. The homeowners of this family room created the wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding in order to elevate the design without overwhelming the 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 originate from old stables, barns and other demolished buildings. Each beam has its own distinct story. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic look. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes as well as a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for reclaimed wooden elements to transform into a mantel. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accents this traditional living room mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a rustic, cozy retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize the hand-crafted appearance and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is a part of the fireplace's wall. A pair of sconces inspired by nature and a landscape painting above the mantel add to the rustic ambiance of the space.
Repurposed wood beams will bring a unique look to any room. They can be left in their natural state or stained to complement your current decor, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted for an updated look, or they can be covered with faux finishes such as marbled or rust paint.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any kind of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas or electric or ventless fireplace or be integrated into a stone or brick fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without burning fire.
Regardless of which method of installation you choose, make sure that your steel or wood beams are properly protected from the possible effects of fire. Both materials can become fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at a variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a striking effect as surrounds for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens up the space while complementing any decor style from modern to traditional. The matte finish is ideal for a sleek and polished appearance while adding a splash of contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can also be combined with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tile is a popular option that lends the space an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile, which adds a luxurious and elegant aesthetic to the space. These tiles have an elegant and glossy surface that is a beautiful reflection of light and brightens the room.
The appropriate tile pattern can improve a fireplace's design. For example, the ribbed tile on this fireplace by @lorenapulichinodesign creates an interesting visual element that pairs beautifully with the smooth, thick mantel. The pattern on the tile gives the whole space a handcrafted appeal that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace and the overall contemporary design of the room.
If you are unsure of taking a pattern risk in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to experiment with the bold style. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's an alternative) with its black grout lines gives this room a sophisticated and playful energy. The hexagonal shapes fit like cubes to create a stimulating layout. The deep brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that is perfect for industrial style.
Another option to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tile that resembles the appearance of brick or a similar material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean and maintain.
Consider applying a peel-and-stick tile to update your fireplace surround without costing you a dime. A lot of these options are resistant to heat which means they are safe for fireplaces and able to adhere to the existing wall. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space, and will look great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has an existing brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is with a fresh coat of paint. The mantel's paint hue also adds warmth and character to the space. Whether you choose to match it to the decor's color scheme or opt for something more striking, a new paint color can make your fireplace stand out as a showpiece.
If your mantel is made of wood, inspect it first get more info for cracks, gouges, and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be handled, fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it up before painting. Clean the surface with a damp cloth in order to get rid of any dirt or dust.
White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. But the right shade can make your mantel really stand out. Check out the other trims, moldings, and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Does your mantel match in color as theirs or is it lighter or darker? If you decide to go with the latter, choose a color that will work well with the other hues in the room to keep it looking balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the surrounding area with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any ornaments or display pieces that were hung over the mantel. If your fireplace is brick, remove any pictures or ornaments that are located on or within it. Once the mantel is cleaned, use a damp cloth and wipe it down to get rid of any soot or dust.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel using either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint is durable and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace, as well as 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.
While brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace wall, it can be a bit heavy and dark in shade. Paint the mantel in the light or neutral color to make it appear brighter and more inviting. If you decide to go with the lighter hue, think about pairing it with an earthy-toned piece of artwork or a mirror that is large above it to create a balanced look.