The Fabulous Fireplace Mantel
A distinctive Fireplace Mantel can be the center of attention in any room. You can design it to suit any style. The Fireplace surround and the mantel are meant to compliment one another.
Updated with paint or with an aged or antique finish, the possibilities are endless. These days railroad ties, reclaimed wood, and clean straight lines on a mantel are popular.( like the one in the top photo.)
What should the width of a mantel be? How far past the fireplace should the mantel go? A question that is always debated. My answer is, for a modern look keep it the width of the fireplace or a minimum of an inch if necessary. For a more rustic or traditional style a mantle can go past the fireplace from an inch to three inches. This is a guesstimate. Very large Fireplaces can often have a very long and heavy mantel.
Contemporary feels are also in high demand—with floating mantels that’s usually a thin simple box used to showcase your designs. Whether choosing a rustic or modern feel, mantel design can range from vintage with antique books, ornate frames or metal urns filled with simple flowers.
Fireplace mantels have shared family traditions throughout the years. What was once a place to keep your kettle, becomes a place for a family’s most intimate moments and memories. From Hanging holiday decor to showing off your beautiful family in colorful frames.
Express yourself through objects of decor to display on your mantle. For example, trinkets that suggest hobbies. Oversized Monopoly pieces. I like to decorate with metal objects and over sized engineering objects. It expresses my and my husbands passions. Candles are a favorite on stylish holders in different styles also a great way to bring in color or scent. Different sized frames with black and white prints. Unframed art on Canvas with bursting colors. View Prints and artwork. http://www.terriosullivan-arts.com
Fireplace mantels are fun because they can be designed for each season. Sort of a display window for your space. Try keeping your pieces all in the same theme or design style.
Whatever your style is, designing your mantle with visual balance is a must. Creating an even amount of space between decorative items. Be sure to match the height on the pieces that are at each end of the fireplace. Try not to clutter the mantel with everyday objects. Let your design objects be the focus.
Your fireplace built-ins, either the original structure or newly built, are also a place of design and appreciation. Here you’re able to utilize a multitude of mantle décor ideas including paint and tile color to wallpapering the backs of the shelves.
Hope you enjoyed Fabulous Fireplace Mantels!
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