3 Reasons You're Wall Fireplace Is Broken (And How To Repair It)
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How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace on the wall can create your living space an element of interest that demands attention. There are a variety of models on the market but it is crucial to choose one that meets your needs.
The heat output, the controls, and the design are some of the most important features. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to hire an expert to help you select the best model.
Molded Squares
A dull stone fireplace surround and dull walls left this living space in need of a dramatic fireplace revamp. The new style is bright, eye-catching and makes the hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace and contrast with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color changes.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces join to create a simple, yet effective, method to frame the fireplace surround. To bring the design together pick a trim style to contrast with or complement the other trim elements, like thick casing around doors and windows. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end style, think about using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to give the appearance of a mantel. For a more rustic, farmhouse look, opt for dentil trim instead.
Wainscoting accent walls is a popular method to add the look of the interior of a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled option like tongue-and groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic appearance.
Another non-combustible material you can use to build an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which comes in many 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 ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure your chosen material conforms to all local and national construction codes for safety.
Open shelving can be a great way of storing books and other items. However having too many shelves can obstruct the look of a fireplace. The owners of this living room have created the 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 are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring timeless elegance to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from barns, stalls, and other buildings that have been destroyed. Each beam has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a decorative element in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They have the typical barn wood markings, like mortise and nail holes as well as a natural aging process that improves their longevity.
Scour salvage yards for architectural salvage as well as flea markets for reclaimed wooden elements to use for a mantel or an accent wall. The natural tone of pine used as a backdrop for this traditional living room surround and mantel creates a cozy country retreat. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic look and complement the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace's wall. The rustic warmth of this space is enhanced by a pair inspired by nature 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 for a more contemporary appearance or covered with faux finishes, such as 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 a fire burning. They can be used to enhance 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 potential consequences of fire. Both materials can be hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However, they can be strengthened by a layer fire-resistant drywall. 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 design instantly brightens the space and is a perfect match for any style, whether contemporary or traditional. The matte finish is perfect for a sleek and polished look while adding contrast 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 tiles are a favorite that gives the room an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also look great with natural materials, such as wood. Marble-look tiles are another classic option that gives an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.
The proper tile pattern can improve 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 pattern of the tile provides a handcrafted look to the space, balancing the modern organic style fireplace with the overall design of the room.
If you're unsure about making a design risk in your home the fireplace is the perfect place to test a bold design. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. The geometric tile with its black grout gives the room an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes resemble cubes, creating a lively layout. The dark brown color gives this space a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.
Tiles that look like brick or other common materials is another way to make an impact on your fireplace. This textured tile, made by LA Designer Affair, has a similar look to traditional brick but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
If you're not ready commit to a full-scale remodel of your fireplace's surround, consider using a peel and stick tile to update the look without costing you a fortune. These tiles are resistant to heat, making them suitable for fireplaces and can be bonded to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is a great option that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furnishings.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace in a wall has a brick surround, the most effective way to downplay its appearance is to give it an update of the paint. Paint the mantel in a different color also adds warmth and personality to the room. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the color scheme of the room or pick something striking.
If the mantel is made of wood be sure to check it for gouges, cracks and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they are small enough. Allow it to dry for the time recommended. Sand the surface using 100-grit paper to roughen it before painting. Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or dust.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. But, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trim on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel match in shade as theirs or is it darker or lighter? 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.
Before you start painting, cover the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Clear off the mantel, removing any decorations or showpieces that might be hanging above it. Take away any ornaments or pictures that are around or on the fireplace made of brick. Once the mantel is empty then wipe it clean with a an damp cloth to wash off any dust or soot that has built up.
Apply a base coat of EasyCare Ultra Premium Interior Paint to your mantel with either a roller or brush. The semi-gloss paint lasts and stain-resistant, which means your mantel can withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving onto the main part of your fireplace wall.
While the brick is a beautiful feature of a fireplace's wall, it can be heavy and dark in hue. Paint the mantel with an unassuming color or neutral to make it appear more vibrant and more inviting. If you choose an unassuming color for your mantel, match it with a piece art in earthy tones or a large mirror to Fireplaces & Stoves UK complement the look.