Free Standing Fireplace Mantel: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel

A fireplace mantel freestanding adds an attractive focal point in a living space. Set up an oversized reflective mirror to visually increase the space. You can also display a collection of frames art and interesting vase.

Symmetrical arrangements create the impression of classic order. To ensure balance, pick a pair of items with similar dimensions and styles - such as the terracotta vases or delftware vase.

Material

When paired with the appropriate decor, free standing fireplace mantels can enhance a wall's appearance. When choosing artwork, mirrors, and other decorative accents for your space, take into consideration the material you use to build your mantel and the style of the wall surrounding it. To create a rustic appearance paint your mantel with an unusual shade or incorporate an element of nature like vines that trail to make it blend with the design of the room. You can also embrace your Shabby Chic style and give your mantel a fresh appearance by using chic painting techniques.

Molding is an easy way to enhance the look of your fireplace and add character. Utilize molding pieces of different shapes and sizes to frame the mantel. This creates an overall appearance. The narrow rectangles either side of the mantel make a striking contrast with its sleek, linear design while the long, wispy limbs and stacked pumpkins give it the classic autumnal look.

Different designs of decorative accents could make your mantel's appearance more lively. This will help avoid clutter. For instance, a pair of mirrors in a round shape offer an elegant alternative to rectangular sconces, and a grouping of varying-sized candlesticks adds a gentle pop to this neutral-toned display. A large piece of art can also be used to create an accent against an uncluttered background.

If you're planning to install a flat-panel TV in your living space, opt for an invisible model that appears like a bookcase that has been built-in. This recessed design lets the flat-screen TV blend into the wall that surrounds it, and keeps your fireplace looking beautiful.

A minimalist design can make your mantel look streamlined and contemporary. By layering thin, overlapping frame on your mantel, you can make the items in each frame stand out. This is also an excellent option to add some color to an otherwise neutral-toned display. Here, a large painting is the focal point in this modern room while a tan jug and candlesticks in brown provide a subtle pop.

Height

The mantel should be at an elevation that is appropriate for the space. It should also proportion to the dimensions of the fireplace and overall size of the room. Incorrect heights can cause the risk of fire or make the fireplace look less appealing. Ask a design professional at a showroom that specializes in electric fireplaces to determine the proper height.

The fireplace and mantel should be installed at least 12" above the opening of the fireplace. This height is required to be in line with building codes and to avoid fire hazards. The firebox must also be at least 18" above the floor. These clearances are required since the heat will radiate up through the front and into the room from the firebox. The clearances are intended to prevent combustible materials such as carpets, curtains and draperies from catching fire.

When you are putting up a mantel you should also consider the amount of storage space that is available. This is important for homeowners with small garages and backyards. If space is a problem, a fireplace with an integrated wood rack is a good alternative. These can be used to store fireplace tools, firewood, and other accessories.

A mantel is a great location to display family photographs and other ornaments. You can decorate it with lamps, figurines and other decorations for a more personalized appearance. Be careful not to overfill the shelves as it could cause damage or spillage. Also, it's a good idea to use coasters under vases and other items to avoid water rings.

Wall-mount electric fire places do not like traditional brick fireplaces. They are mounted on the wall, and do require a chimney. They are safe and are used in homes where there isn't enough space to install a traditional fireplace. This type of fireplace works well in condominiums and apartments, where the firebox cannot be accessible.

When installing a wall-mounted electric fireplace, it's important to ensure that the unit and mantel are placed at the proper height. A fireplace that isn't properly installed could cause fires that can cause the destruction of property and even death. Additionally, if your mantel is not high enough, it will block the heat from reaching the firebox and the floor.

Design

A free-standing fireplace can add architectural interest to the wall of a living area without the hassle and expense of masonry. Decorate the fireplace's mantel with mirrors, artwork and vases to create a warm and inviting hearth. Layering and arranging the vignette can be tricky and it's crucial to think about the size of the room as well as your personal style when selecting decorative pieces. If you want an informal appearance, then mix the sizes to create a balanced arrangement. Here, two tall metal urns, each with similar designs, are paired with a smaller vase, which is more delicately carved. This creates an intriguing contrast between the wood paneling and the contemporary shape of the fireplace wall.

Consider the color and texture surrounding your fireplace when deciding the overall design. You should think about installing wallpaper that is in harmony or that matches your fireplace mantel if you have an uncolored wall. You can also use an eye-catching pattern or color as an attractive background for your vignette. However, it's crucial to keep your mantel decorations in a neutral palette to ensure that the overall style is a balanced one.

If you're surrounded by an uncolored or neutral wall add personality using accents like mirrors and vases that feature interesting textures. A wooden bead garland, for instance, can be natural elements and go perfectly with the brown paint of this non-working fire place. The textured surfaces of the stoneware vase to hold flowers and the black iron candle holder will add depth and contrast to any arrangement.

Select decorative elements that are significant to you and your loved ones. For instance, a frame piece of embroidered textile that has been passed through generations or a grate from the past and an antique brass set of candlesticks are the perfect mix to add some character to this un-working fireplace. This assemblage can be easily altered for different holidays and events. Simply add different flowers or seasonal items.

Function

Mirrors frames, picture frames, and decorative accessories add interest to a mantel for your fireplace that is freestanding. Mix shapes and sizes to avoid a cluttered appearance. Your display will appear more logical and balanced than haphazard.

The right mantel decor can transform your living room into a cozy spot to gather. Pick a hue that matches or contrasts with the wall paint to create a focal area. In  Learn Alot more  living space and makes the wooden mantel stand out. It is also a good match with the dark wood fireplace insert.

Place some natural elements on your mantel to refresh it quickly. A wooden bead garland, brass frame mirror and black iron candle holders work to form a cohesive layered look. The stacked candle holders also provide a warm glow so you can sit and enjoy the mantel even if there's no fire.

To give your mantel a personal style, consider using family photos as accents. Sara Ligorria Tramp, a homeowner from California, framed a piece embroidered fabric that belonged to her mother. She also added a vintage grates for a unique appearance. Add an antique or flea-market find to the mix for an eclectic and cohesive look.

If your home doesn't have a fireplace, don't worry. A fake fireplace can be an ideal option for the modern or transitional space. You can even install an electric fireplace with an integrated TV mount. These fireplaces are versatile and offer all the functionality of traditional fireplaces, but without the security concerns.

A mantel can serve as a focal point for your home, but it can also serve as a backdrop for an art piece that stands out or a striking artwork. To make your art or painting pop, choose a paint color that stands out against the backdrop of your mantel. You can even match the shade of your paint to another aspect of the room, like this home's blue walls and Roman clay surround.

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