If you’re lucky enough to have a gorgeous custom fireplace in your home, you should take advantage of it as a focal point by strategically decorating the mantel. Whether it’s a traditional, ornate, large, small, modern, or antique design, there are many different ways to decorate your mantel to perfection.
Traits of a Fireplace Mantel
The fireplace mantel originally served as a hood that projected over the fire grate to catch smoke. It evolved over time and is now used as a decorative framework around the fireplace itself. No two mantels are alike, and selecting a mantel that fits your space is just as important as the fireplace itself.
Layer and Stagger Art
For a timeless and classy look, mix and match framed and unframed art of various sizes along your mantel. If you want to hang any of the pictures, don’t go too high, since just a few inches above the mantel is the ideal height. If you don’t like the staggered look, you can always select one large piece to make a statement and act as a focal point. This is a great way to show off your art collection and display pictures that are meaningful to you.
Mirror Effect
If you aren’t sure what you want to do with your artwork, you can opt for a mirror instead. One large mirror or multiple small sizes will add dimension to your room and create an attractive focal point. This is an excellent choice if your room is a smaller, darker space that you would like to open up.
Go Tech
If your room is more modern and sleek, mirrors and paintings may not be the right choice. Many homeowners prefer to display their technology above the mantel instead. Consider a custom shallow built-in TV cabinet above your mantel with a sliding door. You can place candles or tall, skinny plants on either side of the TV to soften the impact of the screen, and then have the TV displayed front and center above your mantel.
Whatever you choose to do with your mantel, just make sure it emphasizes the natural beauty of the design and adds to the character of your home.
Four Day Fireplace, Puget Sound’s premier fireplace store, has a wide selection of fireplaces, mantels, and accessories to help you create a timeless look for your home. Call (206) 880-7403 today to learn more about their design, sales, installation, and service options.
