Five Killer Quora Answers On Wall Fireplace
How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A wall fireplace electric can give your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are many models available and you must pick one that suits your needs.
The heat output, the controls and the appearance are among the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these features, it's best to hire a professional to help you choose the right model.
Molded Squares
A worn-out stone fireplace surround and bland walls created a living space that was in need of a dramatic fireplace makeover. With a few tweaks to the design the new look is fresh and striking, making this hearth a centerpiece in the room. A whitewashed fireplace and contemporary artwork above modernize the fireplace facade and contrast with the gray shelves below. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, adding the appeal of this fireplace design.
Base cap molding and thin trim pieces are combined to form a simple, yet effective, way to frame the tile fireplace surround. Select a trim style that contrasts with or complements your other trim elements such as the thick casing around windows and doors to create a cohesive look. If you're looking for an elegant, luxurious look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, you can use dentil trim instead.
The idea of creating an accent wall using wainscoting is a popular way to add character to any room. The same technique can also be used to frame a fireplace. Instead of using plank boards however, try a paneled material like beadboard or tongue-andgroove cedar siding to create a dramatic look.
Brick is another non-combustible option to use as the fireplace surround. It is available in a variety of styles and colors. A traditional red brick fireplace is a popular choice for cottage-style or Craft Revival style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to enhance a traditional country style.
When you incorporate brick into your fireplace design, you'll want to ensure that your hearth extends 16 to 18 inches from the opening of the firebox and that your surround is 8 to 12 inches in all directions. Be sure that the material you choose complies with all local and national construction codes for security.
Open shelving is a great way to organize books and other items, but too many can overwhelm the look of a fireplace. For this family room the homeowners created a wall-to-ceiling limestone cladding to enhance the design of the new fireplace without overpowering the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wood beams make the perfect frame for a wall fireplace. They are timeless and beautiful to any house. Reclaimed wood beams come from old barns, stables and other buildings that were demolished. Each beam has its own distinct history. Reclaimed wood can be used as an accent in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give an authentic appearance. They are characterized by the typical marks of barn wood, such as nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patina that increases their durability.
Find salvage yards for architectural elements and flea markets for reclaimed wood elements to transform into a mantel. The earthy tone of pine used to create this traditional living room's mantel and surround evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections of the wood give it a rustic feel and complement the simple lines of the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. The rustic warmth of this room is accentuated by a pair of nature-inspired wall sconces, as well as a landscape image above the mantel.
Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive accent to any room in your home. They can be left in their natural state or stained to match the decor of your home or cut and distressed to create an antique look. They can be painted to give them a more contemporary look, or covered with faux finishes such as rust or marbling paint.
The wooden beams can serve as the central point of any fireplace electric. They can be placed over a freestanding gas, ventless or electric fireplace, or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can also be used to highlight the mantel with no fire burning.
No matter which method you decide to use to mount your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials can be fragile in extreme heat. However they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products are available in most home improvement stores.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens the room and can be incorporated into any decor, whether traditional or modern. The matte finish is ideal for a polished and clean look while adding contrast to make the fireplace stand out.
Hex tiles also work well with various textures for a more customized appearance. Stone-look tiles are a popular choice that gives the space an old-fashioned, rustic feel. They also go well with natural materials like wood. Another timeless option is marble-look tiles that provides an elegant and luxurious look to the space. The smooth and glossy surface of these tiles shines beautifully, reflecting the sunlight and brightening the space.
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 of the tile provides the appearance of a hand-crafted space, balancing the modern natural style fireplace with the overall style of the room.
If you're unsure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home, the fireplace is a great spot to experiment with the bold style. It might be a bit intimidating for other rooms. This geometric tile with its black grout gives this space an elegant, yet fun feel. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, and the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm look that works with the industrial style of this room.
Another way to make a statement with your fireplace is to select tiles that look like the appearance of brick or another popular material. This textured tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much easier to maintain and clean.
Consider using a peel-and stick tile to modernize your fireplace electric surround without costing you a dime. These options are heat-resistant and therefore suitable for fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This peel and stick herringbone tile is an excellent option for adding elegance to any room. It also looks great with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
If a fireplace on the wall has a brick surround, the most effective method to minimize its appearance is with an update of the paint. Paint the mantel in a different color also adds warmth and personality to the space. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it to the color scheme of the room or choose something bold.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find cracks, gouges, and scratches. If the dents are small enough to handle, fill them with wood putty and let it set for the recommended amount of time. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper to rough it up. Wipe the surface that has been sanded with a damp cloth in order to take off any remaining dirt or debris.
White is a popular color for walls and fireplaces. However, the right shade will make your fireplace stand out. Check out the other wood trim, moldings and bookcases around your home for inspiration. Do they have the same shade as your mantel, or is it a lighter or a darker hue? If the latter, pick a color that coordinates well to keep the space looking balanced.
Cover the area around you with sheets or a dropcloth before you begin painting. Remove any decorative items or showpieces that might have been placed above the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on the 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 brushes or rollers to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain-resistant, so your mantel will be able to withstand the heat of the fireplace, and any other items that are placed on it. Let the primer completely dry, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, before you begin painting the main body of the fireplace wall.
The brick can be quite heavy in weight and color. Paint the mantel in a light color or neutral to make it appear lighter and more inviting. If you choose a light shade for your mantel, pair it with a work of art with earthy tones or a large mirror to balance out the overall look.
