23 | O akville B eaver | T hursday,January 23,2020 insidehalton.com Create a warm atmosphere with fireplace walls There is no doubt that a fireplace creates a cen- tral focal point to any room that it is in. Fire is like a magnet and has an ir-magnet and has an ir-magnet and has an ir resistible pull. However, when the weather turns warm the unlit fireplace shouldn't look bleak or naked. Here are some op- tions for creating a focal wall that is stunning all year round with or without crackling flames. The material that makes up the fire- place surround helps to determine how you decorate. Tile is a stunning choice as there are so many design options -- rustic clay tiles, famous blue and white Delft tiles, glass and mirror tiles to name a few. The tiles can be set in a traditional linear pattern. Or make a big statement by producing a wall with rectangular marble tiles set in a herring-rectangular marble tiles set in a herring-rectangular marble tiles set in a herring bone pattern. The contemporary style seen here captures two design aspects that are on trend today. The historic herringbone pattern is showing up not just on floors but deco- rating walls. And ombre, the effect of progressing from dark to light shades, makes the pattern even more pronounced. The fire is simply framed and there is no mantel shelf to interrupt the clean lines. Architectural details and shapes can pro- duce a distinctive wall that is picturesque all year round. Here, stucco walls show off graceful curves that soar to the high ceil- ing. Decoration above the fire is simple but solid. The shelves are topped with arches. All-white surfaces show off the distinctive lines and crown moulding. Here are a few tips for creating your fabulous fireplace wall. Keep the space above the firepit in proper perspective. Do you have a large fire pit or a small insert? Balance the fireplace surround with shelves and storage. The mantel shelf and side shelves are perfect for displaying your favourite framed photos, books, and memorabilia, but edit your arrangement. Clutter will ruin the over-arrangement. Clutter will ruin the over-arrangement. Clutter will ruin the over all effect. Install lights on either side of the fire or inside the shelves. This soft lighting will create a gentle, comfort-lighting will create a gentle, comfort-lighting will create a gentle, comfort ing mood with or without the aid of a fire. Battery operated pillar candles are a safe way to add a glow beside and above the mantel. You can downplay the linear designs of tiles or wood by injecting round shapes over the fire such as a framed oval mirror, or woven frames. These will also add dimension to a flat surface. In place of shelves or storage beside the fireplace, decorate the plain walls with architectural mouldings. Or design an intriguing display of artwork. If you have a small fireplace situated low down on a high wall, fill the upper space with a large painting or wallhanging so that the eye is naturally drawn up to a captivating scene. Written by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please email decorating questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. Follow Deb- bie at instagram.com/debbie_travis, face- book.com/thedebbietravis, debbietravis.com. DEBBIE TRAVIS House to Home Selling? Listing? Looking for a new home?? Mya couture sales representative remax escarpment rod Frank team call me today 416-845-8429 myac.realty@gmail.commyac.realty@gmail.com