7 Simple Changes That'll Make An Enormous Difference To Your Free Standing Fireplace Mantel

How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel

A mantel that is freestanding can become the focal point of the living area. Set up an oversized reflective mirror to visually enhance the space. You can also display a collection of frames art and interesting vases.

Symmetrical arrangements give a sense of order and classic style. To keep the equilibrium, choose two objects that have similar dimensions, but different styles. For example, these terra-cotta vases and delftware vases.

Material

Freestanding fireplace mantels when paired with the right decor, can enhance a wall's look. When selecting artwork, mirrors, and other decorative accents for the space, think about the material that will be used to construct your mantel, as well as the style of the wall surrounding it. For a more rustic look, paint your mantel an unexpected shade, or install an organic element such as trailing vines to blend it with the room's design. You can also embrace your Shabby Chic style and give your mantel a fresh appearance with paint techniques that are chippy.

Molding is an easy way to improve the look of your fireplace and add personality. Utilize molding pieces of different shapes and sizes to frame the mantel. This creates an overall appearance. The narrow rectangles on either side of the mantel provide a contrast to its sleek, linear form, while the tall, wispy branches and stacked pumpkins give it an elegant autumnal style.

Decorate your home with decorative accents that have different shapes. can also help your mantel display look more vibrant and avoid a cluttered look. A pair of mirrors that are round is an excellent alternative to rectangular sconces. And a collection of candles of various sizes adds a nice splash of color to this neutral-toned display. A large piece of art can be used as the focal point in an uncluttered background.

If you want to include flat-panel TVs in your home, you can choose an invisible model that appears like a bookcase that has been built-in. This design with recessed edges allows your flat-screen to blend with the surrounding walls, and ensure that your fireplace looks the best it can.

A minimalist design can make your mantel look streamlined and contemporary. Layering thin, overlapping frames on your mantel allows the objects within each frame stand out. This is also a great option for adding some color to an otherwise neutral-toned display. In this modern room an enormous painting is the focal point while a tan vase as well as brown candlesticks provide subtle pops of color.

Height

As a focal point of the room, the mantel must be situated at a height that is suitable for a clear view. It should also be in harmony with the fireplace dimensions and overall scale of the room. Unsuitable heights could create an hazard for fires or make the fireplace look less attractive. The best method to determine the correct height is to consult with a design specialist at an establishment that specializes in electric fireplaces.

Typically the fireplace and mantel must be positioned at least 12 inches above the fireplace opening. This height must be maintained to comply with building codes and prevent fire hazards. The firebox should also be at minimum 18" above the floor. These clearances are required because the heat radiates across the front and into the room from the firebox. The clearances are designed to prevent the combustible objects like carpet, curtains and draperies from catching fire.

Another thing to consider when putting up a mantel is the space available for storage. This is especially important for homeowners who have small backyards and garages. If space is a problem then a fireplace that has an integrated wood rack is an alternative. These can be used to store firewood, fireplace tools, and other accessories.

A mantel is an excellent place to display photos of your loved ones and other decorative items. You can decorate it with figurines, lamps and other decorations to create a unique appearance. Be careful not to overfill the shelves or it could cause damage or spillage. Use coasters to protect the vase and other objects from water rings.

As opposed to traditional brick fireplaces wall-mount electric fireplaces are installed within the wall and do not require chimneys. These units are very safe and are commonly installed in homes that do not have enough room for traditional fireplaces. This kind of fireplace is an excellent option for condos and apartments in which the fireplace isn't accessible.

When installing a wall-mount electric fireplace, it is essential to make sure that the fireplace and mantel are placed at the proper height. A fireplace that is not properly installed can be a fire hazard, which can result in property damage or even loss of life. If the mantel is too low, it will stop heat from reaching the firebox or the floor.

Design

A free-standing fireplace can add architectural interest to a living room's wall without the cost and the hassle of masonry. Decorate the fireplace's mantel using mirrors, artwork and vase arrangements to create a cozy and inviting hearth. It can be difficult to layer and arrange the display, so take into consideration the space and your style when selecting decorative pieces. If you prefer a more casual look, then mix up the sizes to create a harmonious arrangement. Here, a pair of tall metal urns of similar silhouettes stands alongside a shorter, more delicately carved vase for a mix of forms and materials which contrast with the modern wood paneling on the fireplace wall.

Take into consideration the color and texture surrounding your fireplace when deciding the overall design. If you have a neutral wall you might want to consider installing an appropriate pattern of wallpaper that is in harmony with or complements your fireplace mantel for visual harmony. A bold color or pattern can also serve as a striking background for your vignette but it's important to keep the colors in your mantel decorations to ensure that the overall design is well-balanced.

If you're surrounded by a white or neutral-colored wall, infuse the area with personality using accents like mirrors and vases with interesting textures. For instance, a wood bead garland can add an element of nature to your design and coordinates perfectly with the brown paint on this non-working fireplace. The rough surfaces of the stoneware vase for flowers and the black iron candle holder will add depth and contrast to any assemblage.

For a unique, eclectic mantel, select ornaments that hold sentimental significance to you and your family. A framed piece embroidered fabric that has been passed through the generations, a vintage grate, and a pair of antique brass candlesticks would be a great mix to add a touch of personality to a non-working fireplace. This set of items is easy to alter for different holidays and events by simply incorporating different florals or seasonal objects.

Function

Decorative accents, mirrors and picture frames add a sense of style to your free standing fireplace mantel. Mix sizes and shapes to avoid a messy appearance. This way, your display looks balanced and intentional instead of haphazard.

The right mantel decor can transform your living room into a cozy space to gather. Choose a color that complements or contrasts with the wall paint to create an eye-catching focal feature. In this room charcoal paint ties together the living area and makes the wooden fireplace stand out. It also pairs well with the dark wood of the oversized fireplace insert.

Put some natural elements on your fireplace to make it look fresh and new. Garlands made of wood as well as brass frame mirrors and black iron candle holders work together to create a cohesive style. The stacked candles also add a warm glow to the space, so you can enjoy your mantel even when there's no fire.

To give your mantel a individual style, consider using family mementos as accents. Here, homeowner Sara Ligorria-Tramp has framed an embroidered fabric from her mother. She also added a vintage grate to create an unusual style. Add an antique or flea-market purchase to create an eclectic and cohesive style.

Don't worry if your home does not have fireplace. A fake fireplace is a great addition to an open or modern space. You can even put in an electric fireplace that has a built-in TV mount. These devices are flexible and offer all the benefits of traditional fireplaces without the security issues.

A mantel can serve as a focal point for your room, but it can also serve as a backdrop for an art piece that stands out or a striking painting. Choose a hue that will stand out against your mantel to make your painting or artwork stand out.  best electric fireplaces with mantels  can even match the hue of your paint with another element in the room, such as this home's blue walls and Roman clay surround.

If you're building a new home or remodeling your existing space, think about customizing your mantel to add architectural details and visual interest. For instance, you could put a carved corbel on the end of a beam or choose to use an arched panel to create your fireplace's surround. Then, you can finish the look with decorative trim and a sculpted crown molding.