A fireplace in the wall can be your living room a focal point that demands attention. There are numerous models to choose from and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.
The most significant features include the output of heat as well as the appearance and controls. If you're not familiar with these features, it's best to seek out an expert to help you choose the best model.
Molded Squares
The living room required an overhaul to the fireplace due to its old-fashioned stone surround and bland walls. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed mantel for the fireplace and contemporary art above the fireplace modernizes the facade and the shelves in gray below provide a stark contrast. A few minor changes in color will also make the fireplace stand out from the wall, which enhances the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. To connect the look select a trim design to contrast or match the other trim elements, such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you prefer a more elegant, high-end style, you can use fluted trim to create the illusion of a mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse style, opt for dentil trim instead.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is an effective way to add character any room. The same technique can be used to frame a fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as a fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a traditional choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. The rustic-look brick is an option that can fit in with a more traditional, country decor.
When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, it is important to ensure that your hearth extends 16-18 inches from the firebox opening and that the surround extends 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose conforms to all national and local building codes to ensure security.
Open shelves are a great way to organize books and other items However, too many shelves could take over the appearance of a fireplace. The owners 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 bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed wood beams are sourced from barns, stables and other demolished buildings. Each beam carries with it its own story. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens or wide planks of paneling to create an authentic look. They have the typical markings of barn wood, including mortise and nail holes and a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements that can be used as a mantel or accent wall. For instance the earthy hue of pine that accents this traditional living room mantel and surround creates a cozy rural retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood emphasize a hand-hewn look and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that borders the fireplace wall. A pair of sconces with a natural theme and a landscape-themed painting over the mantel add to the rustic coziness of the room.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your existing decor or carved for an antique look. They can be painted to give them a modern appearance or covered with faux finishes like rust or marbling paint.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point for any type of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas, ventless or electric Fire fireplace, or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel without burning fire.
Whatever method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your steel or wood beams are adequately protected from the potential effects of fire. Both types of material are susceptible to becoming brittle and weakening in the presence of extreme heat, but both can be reinforced with a layer of fire-resistant drywall or commercial fire-protectant sprays on I-beams made of steel. These products are available in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be utilized to create a dramatic effect as an accent for fireplaces. Its shape instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any decor, modern or traditional. Choosing a matte finish for the tiles is the best way to keep that neat and polished look, while adding some contrast to make the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customized by a variety of textures to create an individualized appearance. Stone-look tile is a popular choice that gives the room an authentic, rustic look and is a great match with natural materials such as wood. Marble-look tile is a timeless option that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles sparkles beautifully, reflecting light and brightening up 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 pattern of the tile adds a unique the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace, and the contemporary style of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk with pattern in your home, a fireplace can be the perfect place to test out a bold pattern that could be a bit intimidating in other areas of the house. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes fit together as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the deep brown color creates an inviting and warm aesthetic that complements the industrial decor in this space.
Tiles that resemble brick or other materials you are familiar with is another option to create an impact with your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look as brick but is much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, think about applying a peel and stick tile to update the appearance without spending a fortune. Many of these options are heat-resistant, making them safe for the fireplace and able to adhere to the existing wall. 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
When a wall fireplace has a brick surround, the best method to minimize its appearance is to give it a fresh coat of paint. The mantel can be painted a different color to give it a more cosy and spirited look. Whether you choose to match it with the room's color scheme or opt for something more striking and striking, a fresh paint color will make your fireplace stand out as a stunning feature.
If your mantel is made from wood, first check it for cracks, nicks and gouges. If the dents aren't large enough to handle, fill them with wood putty and allow it to set for the appropriate amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to roughen it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris.
White is a favorite color for walls and fireplaces. However, the right shade will make your mantel really stand out. For ideas, take a examine the trims of wood on your bookcases, moldings, 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 a color that will work well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Protect the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel has been cleaned, you can use a damp cloth and wipe it down to remove any dust or soot.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with the use of a roller or brush. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, ensuring that your mantel will hold up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer dry, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick can be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you opt for a light color for your mantel, pair it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to balance out the overall look.
