How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel
A fireplace mantel that is free-standing can be a an attractive focal point to a living area. Hang an oversized mirror to visually expand the space and bounce light around the room or display your personal collection with interesting framed art and vase.
Symmetrical arrangements convey an orderly feel and classic style. To maintain balance, choose a pair of items with similar dimensions and different styles - such as these terracotta pots and delftware-style vases.
Material
Free standing fireplace mantels, when combined with the right decor, can enhance the appearance of a wall. Consider the material used to construct your mantel and the style of the wall when choosing mirrors, artwork and other decorative accessories to give the room. Paint your mantel in a stunning shade or add a natural element like trailing vines to create a rustic look. You can also embrace your style of shabby chic and give your old mantel a facelift by using the techniques of chippy paint to create an updated vintage look.
Molding is a great way to add character to your fireplace wall and complement the appearance of your mantel. Utilize molding pieces of different shapes and sizes to frame the mantel. This will create a cohesive look. For example, the narrow rectangles that flank this mantel offer a contrast to its sleek, sleek shape, while the tall wispy branches and stacked pumpkins give an autumnal style that is timeless.
Accents of decorative design with different shapes can also help your mantel look more lively and prevent a cluttered look. A set of round mirrors can be an ideal alternative to rectangular sconces. A grouping of different-sized candlesticks adds a subtle pop of color to this neutral-toned display. A large work of art can be used to create a focal point against a neutral background.
A flat-panel TV can alter the appearance of a traditional mantel, so if you need to include one in your design, go for a hidden model that looks like a shelf built into the wall. This design of recessed allows your flat-screen screen to blend with the walls surrounding it and keep your fireplace looking at its best.
A minimalist design can make your mantel look modern and sleek. By laying a thin, overlapping frame on your mantel, you can make the items inside each frame stand out. This approach is also ideal for adding some color to an otherwise neutral-toned display. In this modern room, a large painting is the center of attention while a tan vase and candlesticks in brown add a subtle pop.
Height
As a focal point of the room, the mantel should be situated at a height that is suitable for viewing. It should also complement the dimensions of the fireplace as well as the overall room scale. A wrong height can create an increase in fire danger or make the look of the fireplace less attractive. Consult a design expert at a showroom specializing in electric fireplaces to determine the appropriate height.
The mantel and fireplace must be placed at minimum 12" above the opening of the fireplace. This is necessary to meet building codes and avoid fire hazards. The firebox should also be at least 18" above the floor. These clearances are necessary because the heat radiates upwards through the front and into the room from the firebox. The clearances are intended to stop combustible materials like carpets, curtains and draperies from burning.
Another thing to consider when putting up a mantel is the amount of available space to store it. This is important for homeowners with small garages and backyards. If space is an issue then a fireplace that has a built in wood rack is an option. They can be used for storing firewood, tools and other items.
A mantel is a great spot to display family photos and other ornaments. It can be decorated with lamps, figurines, and other decorations to give the room a personalized touch. But, be cautious not to overload the shelves, or it could cause damage or spillage. Use coasters to shield the vase and other objects from water rings.
As opposed to traditional brick fireplaces wall-mount electric fireplaces are mounted within the wall and don't require chimneys. They are safe and are installed in homes where there is not enough space for a traditional fireplace. This type of fireplace is a good option for condos and apartments where the fireplace is not accessible.
When installing a wall-mount electric fireplace, it's essential to make sure that the unit and mantel are installed at the correct height. An improperly installed fireplace can be a fire hazard and cause damage to property or even death. In addition, if the mantel is not high enough, it could stop the heat from reaching the firebox and the floor.
Design
A free-standing fireplace can provide architectural interest to the walls of a living area without the hassle and expense of masonry. Decorate the mantel with a collection of mirrors, art work and vases for a warm hearth that can serve as the focal point. It can be difficult to arrange and layer the vignette, so you should take into consideration the size of the room and your aesthetic when choosing decorative pieces. The classic symmetry of a vignette is reflected in the arrangement, but if you prefer a more relaxed arrangement, mix the dimensions of your pieces to create a balanced appearance. Two tall metal urns, each with similar shapes, are paired with a shorter vase, which is more delicately cut. This creates an intriguing contrast between the wood paneling and the modern design of the fireplace wall.
Think about the texture and color surrounding your mantel when deciding the overall design. If you have a neutral-colored wall contemplate putting up patterns that are coordinating or complementary to your fireplace mantel for visual harmony. You could also consider using an eye-catching pattern or color as an eye-catching background for your vignette. However, it is crucial to keep your mantel decorations in a subdued color scheme to ensure that your overall look is balanced.
If you have white or neutral walls give a unique look to the space with mirrors and vases with interesting textures. A wooden bead garland, for instance, can be an element of nature and work perfectly with the brown paint of this non-working fire place. Similar to the smooth surfaces of a stoneware pitcher for flowers and an iron candle holder in black add depth and contrast to your collection.
Select decorative elements that are meaningful to you and your loved ones. For example, a framed piece of embroidery that was passed through generations and a grate made of vintage and an antique brass set of candlesticks are an ideal combination to add some personality to this non-working fireplace. This collection is simple to change out for various occasions and holidays by adding different florals or seasonal objects.
Function
Mirrors, decorative accents, and picture frames add a sense of style to your freestanding fireplace mantel. Mix sizes and shapes to avoid a messy appearance. Your display will appear more balanced and thoughtful than haphazard.
The right mantel decorations can transform your living room into an inviting place to gather. Choose a color that complements or contrasts with your wall paint to create an eye-catching focal feature. In this space charcoal paint ties together the living area and makes the fireplace stand out. It is also a great match with the dark wood of the oversized fireplace insert.
For a quick refresh take a few natural elements and put them on your mantel. A wooden bead garland, mirrors with frames made of brass and black iron candle holders work together to create a cohesive look. The stacked candle holders also create a warm glow so you can enjoy the fireplace even if there is no fire.
To give your mantel a individual style, consider using family photos as accents. Here, homeowner Sara Ligorria-Tramp framed a piece of embroidery from her mother and added a vintage grate for an original design. Add wall mounted electric fireplace with mantel ideas or flea-market purchase to create a cohesive, eclectic look.
Don't be concerned if your house doesn't have fireplace. A faux fireplace is a great option for a modern or transitional space. You can set up an electric fireplace with a built in TV mount. These versatile fireplaces offer all the functionality of a traditional fireplace without any of the safety concerns.
A mantel can be used as a focal point in your room or as a display for a bold painting or statement artwork. To make your art or painting stand out, select the color of your paint that stands out against the backdrop of your mantel. You can even match the shade of your paint to another feature in the room, such as this home's blue walls and Roman clay surround.
Consider customizing your fireplace mantel if are building a new house or remodeling an existing one. This will add architectural details and visual appeal. For instance, you can put a carved corbel on the end of a beam, or opt for an arched panel as your fireplace's surround. Then, finish the look with decorative trim and an intricate crown molding.