How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel
A mantel that is freestanding can become the focal point of the living area. Hang an oversized mirror to visually increase the space and bounce light around the room or display a collection of your own with interesting framed art and vases.
Symmetrical arrangements project a sense of classic order. To ensure balance, pick an item that has similar dimensions and styles - like the terracotta vases or delftware-style vases.
Material
Free standing fireplace mantels, when paired with the right decor, can enhance the appearance of a wall. When selecting mirrors, artwork, or other decorative accents for your space, consider the material you use to build your mantel as well as the style of the wall surrounding it. Paint your mantel with a striking shade or add an element of nature such as trailing vines for an authentic look. You can also embrace your inner shabby-chic style and give a mantel a fresh look with chippy painting techniques.
Molding is an easy way to add character your fireplace's walls and to complement the appearance of your mantel. Use molding pieces in various shapes and sizes to frame your mantel to create an elegant design. white mantel electric fireplace on either side of the mantel make a striking contrast with its sleek, linear form and the tall, wispy branches and the stacked pumpkins create an elegant autumnal appearance.
Decorate your home with decorative accents that have different shapes. can make your mantel display appear more dynamic and prevent a cluttered look. For example an array of round mirrors provides an elegant alternative to rectangular sconces, and a set of different-sized candlesticks provides a subtle pop to this neutral-toned display. A large piece of art could be an accent piece that is distinct against the background.
If you're looking to add a flat-panel TV into your home, you can choose an invisible model that appears like a built-in bookcase. This design of recessed allows your flat-screen to blend with the walls surrounding it and keeps your fireplace looking the best it can.
A minimalist design can make your mantel look modern and sleek. Layering thin, overlapping frames on your mantel allows the items inside each frame stand out. This is also ideal for adding an element of color to an otherwise neutral-toned display. In this modern room an enormous painting is the main focus while a tan vase as well as candlesticks in brown add an ethereal pop.
Height
The mantel should be at an eye-level that is appropriate to the room. It must also be a perfect fit with the dimensions of the fireplace as well as the overall room size. Inappropriate heights can create dangers to fire or make the fireplace less appealing. Consult a design expert at a showroom that specializes in electric fireplaces to determine the appropriate height.
Typically, the mantel and fireplace should be placed at least 12 inches above the opening of the fireplace. This is necessary to comply with the building codes and prevent fire hazards. In addition the firebox should be at least 18 inches above the floor. These clearances are necessary because the heat from the flames will be radiating up through the front of the firebox, and into the room. The clearances are designed to protect things that are flammable, like curtains, carpets, and draperies from catching fire.
When putting up a mantel, you should take into account the amount of storage space available. This is important for homeowners with small garages and backyards. If space is a concern, a fireplace with a built in wood rack can be an option. They can be used for storing firewood, tools, and other accessories.
A mantel is a great location to display family photographs as well as other items of decor. It can be adorned with figurines, lamps and other decorations to give the room an individual look. However, 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.
In contrast to traditional brick fireplaces wall-mount electric fireplaces are installed in the wall and do not require chimneys. They are extremely secure and are often installed in homes that do not have enough space for traditional fireplaces. This kind of fireplace is ideal well in condos and apartments where the firebox can't be accessible.
It is important that you install the wall-mounted electric fire at the right height. electric fireplace and mantel installed fireplace can be a fire hazard that could cause property damage or even loss of life. If the mantel is too low, it will hinder heat from reaching the firebox or the floor.
Design
A free-standing fireplace can provide architectural interest to the wall of a living area without the hassle and expense of masonry. Decorate the mantel with a variety of artwork, mirrors and vases to create a welcoming hearth that could function as the focal point. Arranging and layering the vignette can be a challenge, so it's important to take into consideration the dimensions of the room as well as your personal style when selecting decorative items. Symmetrical arrangements project a classic arrangement, but if you prefer a more relaxed arrangement, mix up the sizes of your objects to create a balanced appearance. Two tall metal urns, both with similar shapes, are placed alongside smaller vase that is more delicately cut. This creates an intriguing contrast between the wood paneling and the modern design of the fireplace wall.
When you're deciding on the overall design of your mantel, it's important to consider the color and texture of the walls around it. You should think about installing wallpaper that complements or that matches your fireplace mantel if have walls that are neutral in color. You could also consider using a striking color or pattern as an attractive background for your vignette. But, it's important to keep your mantel decorations in a subtle palette to ensure that the overall look is balanced.
If you're working with a white or neutral-colored wall make sure to give the space individuality by using accents like mirrors and vases with interesting textures. For instance, a wooden bead garland is an element of nature to your decor and blends 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 give depth and a different look to any collection.
To create a unique, eclectic mantel, choose decorative elements that have sentimental value to your family and you. A framed piece of embroidery that has been passed through the generations, a repurposed grates and a pair antique brass candlesticks would be an ideal combination to give a unique look to a non-working fireplace. This set of items is easy to alter for different occasions and holidays by mixing different florals and seasonal items.
Function
Mirrors, decorative accents and picture frames add dimension to your freestanding fireplace mantel. Mix shapes to avoid a cluttered appearance. You can also think about changing the dimensions of the objects on your display. So, your arrangement looks balanced and intentional instead of haphazard.
The right mantel decoration can make your living room a cozy spot to gather. Use a color that matches or contrasts with your wall paint to create a focal point. In this particular space the charcoal paint shade unifies the living space and makes the mantel made of wood stand out. It also complements the dark wood fireplace insert.
Place some natural elements on your mantel to give it a fresh look. Garlands made of wood, brass frame mirrors and black iron candle holders combine to create a cohesive layering style. The stacked candle holders also create a warm glow making it possible to enjoy the fireplace even if there is no fire.
To give your mantel a individual style, consider using family photos as accents. Sara Ligorria Tramp, a homeowner from California, put together the embroidered fabric piece that belonged to her mother. She also added vintage grates for a distinctive appearance. Add an antique or flea-market find to the mix for an eclectic, cohesive look.
If your home doesn't have a real fireplace, don't fret. A fake fireplace is an excellent option for an open or modern space. You can put in an electric fireplace with a built in TV mount. These devices are flexible and offer all the functionality of traditional fireplaces, but without the safety concerns.

A mantel can serve as a focal point for your home however, it can also serve as a backdrop for a statement artwork or a bold painting. Choose a paint colour that is striking against the mantel to make your artwork or painting stand out. You can even match the shade of your paint to another aspect of the room, like the blue walls of this house and Roman clay surround.
Consider modifying your fireplace mantel if are building a new house or remodeling an existing one. This will give your fireplace a more architectural visual appeal. You could, for example you could add an intricate corbel at the top of a beam. You could also use an arched fireplace surround. Then, you can finish the look with trim and a sophisticated crown molding.