How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel
A mantel that is freestanding can be an important focal point in the living area. Set up an oversized mirror that is reflective to visually increase the space. You can also display a collection of framed artwork and interesting vases.
Symmetrical arrangements convey an orderly feel and classic style. To ensure balance, pick two items that have similar dimensions and different styles, such as these terracotta pots and delftware vase.
Material
Freestanding fireplace mantels, when combined with the right design, can add a touch of elegance to the look of a wall. When choosing mirrors, artwork, and other decorative accents for the space, take into consideration the material you use to build your mantel as well as the style of the wall around it. Paint your mantel a surprising shade or add an organic element like a trailing vine for rustic appearance. You can also embrace your style of shabby chic and give your old mantel a facelift by using paint techniques that are chippy to create an contemporary vintage look.
Molding is a simple way to enhance the look of your fireplace and add personality. Use molding pieces of different shapes and sizes to frame the mantel. This creates an overall appearance. For instance, the narrow rectangles that flank this mantel offer a contrast to its angular, sleek shape, while the tall, wispy branches and stacked pumpkins lend the classic autumnal look.
Different designs of decorative accents can make your mantel's appearance more lively. This will prevent clutter. For instance the use of a set of mirrors in a round shape offer an elegant alternative to rectangular sconces, and a collection of different-sized candlesticks provides a subtle pop to this neutral-toned display. A large piece of art can provide an element of interest that stands out against the backdrop.
If you want to include a flat-panel TV into your living space, opt for a hidden model that looks like a bookcase that has been built-in. This recessed design allows the flat-screen to blend in with the surrounding wall and keeps your fireplace looking great.
A minimalist design will make your mantel look streamlined and contemporary. By layering a thin, overlaid frames on your mantel you can make the objects inside each frame stand out. This is an excellent method to add a splash of color to a neutral display. In this modern space, a large painting is the focal point while a tan vase and brown candlesticks provide an ethereal pop.
Height
As a focal point in the room, the mantel must be placed at a suitable height for a clear view. It should also match with the dimensions of the fireplace as well as the overall room size. A wrong height can cause dangers to fire or make the fireplace less appealing. The best way to determine the correct height is to talk to an expert in design at a showroom that is specialized in electric fireplaces.
The fireplace and mantel should be installed at minimum 12" above the opening of the fireplace. This is necessary to meet building codes and avoid fire dangers. The firebox must be at minimum 18" above the floor. These clearances are essential because the heat generated by the flames will radiate upwards through the front of the firebox, and into the room. The clearances are intended to keep combustible items out of the way like curtains, carpets, and draperies catching fire.
Another factor to consider when installing a mantel is the amount of space available to store it. This is especially important for homeowners who do not have large garages or backyards. If space is an issue then a fireplace that has an integrated wood rack is an ideal alternative. These can be used to store fireplace tools, firewood and other equipment.
A mantel is a great location to display pictures of your family and other ornaments. You can decorate it with lamps, figurines and other accessories to create a unique appearance. Be careful not to overload the shelves as it could cause damage or spillage. Use coasters to protect the vase and other objects from water rings.
Unlike traditional brick fireplaces, wall-mount electric fireplaces are installed inside of the wall and do not require chimneys. They are safe and can be used in homes that do not have enough space to put in a traditional fireplace. This kind of fireplace is a good choice for apartments and condos where the fireplace is not accessible.
When installing a wall-mounted electric fireplace, it is important to ensure that the unit and mantel are set at the right height. An improperly installed fireplace can pose a fire hazard and cause damage to property or even death. Additionally, if your mantel isn't high enough, it can block the heat from reaching the fireplace and the floor.
Design
A free standing fireplace adds architectural interest to the living room wall without the expense and the hassle of brickwork. Decorate the mantel with a selection of mirrors, art work and vases for an inviting hearth that could function as a focal point. It can be a challenge to layer and arrange the vignette, so you should think about the size of the room and your aesthetic when choosing decorative items. If you want an informal look, then mix up the sizes to create a harmonious arrangement. In this case, two tall metal urns with similar shapes, are placed alongside smaller vase that is more delicately cut. This creates an intriguing contrast between the wood paneling and the contemporary design of the fireplace wall.
Take into consideration the color and texture surrounding your mantel when deciding the overall design. If you have a neutral-colored wall, consider installing an appropriate pattern of wallpaper that is in harmony with or complements your fireplace's mantel for visual harmony. You can also use a striking pattern or color as an attractive background for your vignette. But, it's essential to keep your fireplace decorations in a neutral palette to ensure that the overall style is a balanced one.
If you are working with a neutral or white wall give a unique look to the room by using mirrors and vases that have interesting textures. For instance, a wood bead garland can provide a natural element to your decor and blends well with the brown paint on this fireplace that's not working. The smooth surfaces of the stoneware vase to hold flowers and the black iron candle holder add depth and contrast to any collection.
Choose decorative elements that are significant to you and your loved ones. For instance, a frame piece of embroidery that was passed down through generations or a grate from the past and a set of antique brass candlesticks are an ideal combination to add some personality to this non-working fireplace. This collection is simple to alter for different occasions and holidays by mixing different florals and seasonal objects.
Function
Mirrors frames, picture frames, and decorative accessories add interest to a mantel for your fireplace that is freestanding. Mix shapes to avoid clutter look and consider varying the sizes of objects displayed. This way, your display appears well-thought-out and planned instead of haphazard.
The right mantel decoration can transform your living space into an ideal place to relax. Create a focal point by choosing an accent color that contrasts with or complements your wall paint. In this particular space the charcoal paint shade unifies the living space and makes the wooden mantel stand out. It also pairs well with the dark wood of the oversized fireplace insert.
Put some natural elements on your mantel to make it look fresh and new. A wooden bead garland mirror with a frame made of brass, and black iron candle holders combine to create a layered style. tall electric fireplace with mantel stacked candle holders provide a warm glow so you can sit and enjoy the fireplace even if there's no fire.
To inject your mantel with individual style, consider using family photos as accents. The homeowner Sara Ligorria Tramp put up a piece of embroidery from her mother and added a vintage grate for a unique design. When you add an antique or found at a flea market to the mix, you get an unifying, eclectic style.
If your home isn't equipped with a fireplace, don't be concerned. A fake fireplace can be an ideal addition to a modern or transitional room. You can put in an electric fire place that has a built in TV mount. These versatile fixtures give you all the features of a traditional fireplace but without any of the safety issues.
Mantels can be an important focal point in your living space but it could also serve as a backdrop for a statement artwork or a striking artwork. To make your artwork or painting stand out, select the color of your paint that is distinct against the backdrop of your mantel. You can match the hue of your paint with another element in the space, such as the blue walls and Roman clay surround.
If you're building your own home or renovating an existing one, you might want to consider modifying your mantel to add architectural details and visual interest. For instance, you could include a carved corbel at the end of a beam or choose to use an arched panel to create your fireplace surround. Add decorative trims and crown molding.