A fireplace in the wall will give your living room an eye-catching focal point. There are many different models on the market, however, so it is crucial to choose one that is suitable for your needs.
The most significant features include the output of heat, the appearance and the controls. If you're unfamiliar with these features, it's recommended to seek out an expert to help you choose the right model.
Molded Squares
A worn-out stone fireplace surround and dull walls created a living space that was in need of a drastic fireplace overhaul. The new look is bright, eye-catching and makes this hearth the main focal point of the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the facade of the fireplace while contrasting with the shelves in gray below. The fireplace's exterior is enhanced by a few color changes.
Base cap moldings and trim pieces make a simple but effective method of framing a fireplace surround made of tile. Select a trim style that is in contrast with or matches your other trim elements for example, the thick casing around doors and windows to make the look more cohesive. If you're looking for a more elegant, high-end look, use fluted trim to create 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 a room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled product like beadboard or tongue-and-groove cedar siding to create a striking appearance.
Another non-combustible material that you can use to create an enclosure for your fireplace is brick, which is available in many 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 could be a good fit with a more traditional, country-style decor.
If you want to incorporate brick into your fireplace design ensure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and the surround is 8-12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is safe and meets all national and local codes.
Open shelving is a great option to store books and other items, but too many can take over the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, the homeowners designed a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the appearance of the fireplace, without obscuring the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Reclaimed wood beams that have a rustic style are ideal for a fireplace wall. They bring a timeless appeal to any home. Reclaimed beams of wood are reclaimed from barns, stalls and other structures that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as an accent in modern kitchens or with wide plank paneling to create an authentic appearance. They feature the typical markings of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets, plus a natural patina that enhances their durability.
Scour architectural salvage yards and flea markets to find reclaimed wood elements to repurpose as a mantel or accent wall. For example the earthy color of pine that highlights the traditional mantel and surround is reminiscent of an idyllic rural setting. Its knotty imperfections create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting on the wall of the fireplace. The rustic warmth of the room is enhanced by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, and a landscape picture above the mantel.
Repurposed wooden beams can provide an eye-catching statement to any room in your home. They can be stained to match your current decor or carved for an antique appearance. They can be painted to give them a more modern look or covered with faux finishes such as marbling paint or rust.
Wooden beams can be used as a focal point in any type of fireplace. They can be placed above a freestanding gas, electric or ventless fireplace or they can be incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to enhance the mantel without a burning fire.
Regardless of which method of installation you decide to use, make sure that your wood or steel beams are adequately protected from the potential consequences of fire. Both types of materials can become brittle and weaken when exposed to extreme heat, however 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 at a variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tile can make a dramatic statement when used as an accent for your fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the room and can be incorporated into any style, whether modern or traditional. Selecting matte finishes for the tiles is ideal to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles can be customised by a variety of textures to create an individual appearance. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that gives the room an authentic, classic look. They also look great with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious appearance to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that reflect light beautifully and brightens the space.
The right tile pattern can elevate 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 patterned tile gives the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing 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 the perfect place to experiment with an imposing design. It can be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes are shaped like cubes to create an exciting layout. The deep brown color gives this space a warm, inviting aesthetic that goes well with the industrial decor.
Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another familiar material. This textured tile, from LA Designer Affair, has an identical look to brick, but with the added benefit of being much easier to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without spending a fortune. These tiles are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for fireplaces as well as able to stick to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is a fantastic option to add style to any room. It also coordinates beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best way to hide the brick surround of an unwall-mounted fireplace. The mantel's paint color also adds warmth and character to the room. A new paint color can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something bold.
If your mantel is made of wood, inspect it first for gouges, cracks and nicks. If the dents aren't large enough to be able to handle then fill them with wood putty and allow it to 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 clean the surfaces you have sanded with a damp cloth.
White is a favorite color for cheap fireplaces and walls. However the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Look at the other trims, moldings, and bookcases in your home to get ideas. Does your mantel match in color as theirs, or is it darker or lighter? If you choose the latter, choose the color that works well with the other colors in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Before you start painting, cover the area surrounding you with drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that may have been hung over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are on or around your brick fireplace. Once the mantel is cleaned, take a damp cloth and wipe it clean to remove any soot or dust.
Apply a basecoat using a roller or brush to your mantel. The semi-gloss finish is durable and stain-resistant, which means that your mantel is able to stand up well to the heat from the fireplace as well as any other items 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.
The brick may be heavy in color and weight. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you choose a light color for your mantel, you can pair it with a piece of artwork in earthy tones, or a large mirror to complete the look.
