Converting a Blank Fireplace Wall into a Stunning Focal Point

Going From a Blank Wall to a Focal Point Fireplace

Having a blank wall above your fireplace can make the whole area look unfinished and dull. But there's no need to live with a boring blank space - a stunning focal point fireplace can totally transform the look and feel of a room. With the right materials and design, you can create a beautiful fireplace display and chimney breast from scratch.

Options For Turning a Blank Wall Into a Focal Point

There are several effective options for converting a blank chimney breast into an attractive focal point:

• Natural stone and tiles - Materials like slate, marble, granite, and porcelain can create a classic, elegant look. Geometric tile patterns also work well.
• Wood paneling - Tongue and groove planks or reclaimed wood boards add warmth and texture.
• Exposed brick - For a rustic, industrial vibe, expose the existing brickwork or add new brick facing.
• Metal finishes - Copper, stainless steel, or powder coated metal panels lend a sleek, contemporary look.
• Mosaics - Small tiles or colored glass pieces arranged in patterns make for an artistic display.
• Murals - Painted scenes and imagery turn the area into a focal artwork.

Design Considerations

When planning your focal point chimney breast, consider the following design factors:

• Unity with the room - Choose materials and colors that complement your existing decor.
• Fireplace style - Design the breast to match and enhance your type of fireplace.
• Focal impact - Use prominent shapes, lines and patterns to draw the eye.
• Lighting - Add sconces, accent lighting or backlighting for drama.
• Balance and scale - Make sure the breast is proportional to the size of the wall and room.
• Texture - Layer materials with different textures for visual interest.
• mantel - Incorporate mantel shelves or custom woodwork for functionality.

Transforming a Blank Wall into a Slate Tiled Focal Point

One excellent option for converting a blank fireplace wall into an eye-catching focal point is using slate tile. Here is an example process:

1. Build out a new chimney breast frame to desired size and shape.
2. Add cement backerboard as a base.
3. Select slate tile in a shape and color that suits your room; combine multiple sizes for interest.
4. Lay the slate tiles on the chimney breast in your chosen pattern.
5. Grout and seal the slate tile.
6. Install new fireplace insert or stove of your choice.
7. Accent with neutral gray grout to match slate tones.
8. Add other decorative touches like wrought iron candle sconces.

Slate tile in charcoal gray and blue-gray hues can create a handsome, sophisticated look. Laying a mix of large and small slate tiles in a brickwork pattern adds texture. For a contemporary style, choose sleek modern fireplace inserts.

Achieving a Rustic Look with Exposed Brick

Exposing the existing brickwork on your chimney breast is another way to create a focal point full of character and texture. Here is one approach:

1. Remove existing facing from chimney area.
2. Repair or replace any damaged bricks.
3. Clean bricks thoroughly.
4. Seal and paint bricks white or neutral tone if desired.
5. Add new rustic wood mantel in reclaimed barnwood.
6. Display fun accessories like vintage signs.
7. Install cast iron wood stove or reclaimed brick fireplace.
8. Incorporate industrial elements like black pipe shelves.
9. Add warm lighting like cage pendant lights.

The raw, natural texture of exposed brick paired with wood and metal industrial accents creates a cozy farmhouse or cabin vibe. For a cleaner look, whitewashed bricks keep the rustic charm while brightening up the space.

Achieving Focal Impact with Geometric Tile Patterns

If you want your new chimney display to immediately steal attention, bold geometric tile designs are a great option. Here are some recommendations:

• Select eye-catching tiles in glossy finishes, vivid colors, or multi-colored mosaics.
• Use repeating shapes like chevrons, circles or diagonals for maximum impact.
• Incorporate decorative tile inserts like medallions.
• Outline tile sections with metal, stone or glass tile trims.
• Pair with sleek modern style inserts and fireboxes.
• Highlight with contemporary pendant or recessed lighting.
• Paint surrounding walls a neutral tone to let the tile pattern pop.

Vibrant Moroccan-inspired tiles or art-deco geometrics instantly energize a space. Complementing the tiles with modern elements creates a bold, sophisticated focal point.

Transforming a Blank Wall into a Showstopper

Turning a plain chimney and empty wall from a blank space into an eye-catching focal feature is enormously satisfying. With imagination and the right materials, you can create a custom display that becomes a true showpiece. From sleek and modern to rustic and cozy, a decorative chimney breast creates an inviting atmosphere. Pay attention to mantels, surrounds and accessories as finishing touches. Soon that boring blank wall will be a head-turning highlight full of style and personality.

FAQs

What are some good materials to use for creating a focal point on a blank fireplace wall?

Some great materials options include: natural stone or tiles like marble or slate, reclaimed wood planks, exposed brick, metal panels, tile or glass mosaics, and statement wallpaper or murals.

What fireplace styles pair best with a slate tile chimney display?

Slate tile chimney displays complement modern styles like sleek fireplace inserts or ethanol fireplaces very well. For a more traditional look, a brick or stone surround fireplace works nicely.

What should I consider when designing a focal point chimney breast?

Important design considerations are: complementing your existing room decor, balancing the scale/size appropriately, creating visual interest through shapes and textures, incorporating lighting, and coordinating with your fireplace style.

How do I expose brick on a chimney breast?

Start by removing any existing facing material. Repair or replace damaged bricks. Clean thoroughly. Seal and paint bricks if desired. Add new mantel, accessories and lighting to complete the look.

What are some ways to make a geometric tile design really stand out?

Use glossy or colorful patterned tiles, repeating shapes like chevrons, decorative medallions or inserts, metallic trims, sleek modern fireplaces, and accent lighting. Paint surrounding walls a neutral color to make the tiles pop.