How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel
A fireplace mantel that is free-standing can be a a focal point to a living room. Install a large mirror to visually increase the space and scatter light throughout the room, or showcase a personal collection with framed artwork and interesting vase.
Symmetrical arrangements convey an impression of traditional order. To maintain balance, choose two items that have similar dimensions and different styles, such as these terracotta pots and delftware style vase.
Material
Free standing fireplace mantels, when paired with the correct decor, can improve the look of a wall. When choosing mirrors, artwork, and other decorative elements for the space, think about the material that will be used to construct your mantel, as well as the style of the wall around it. To create a rustic appearance paint your mantel in an unexpected shade, or incorporate an element of nature like trailing vines to help it blend in with the design of the room. You can also embrace your inner shabby-chic style and give a mantel a fresh look by employing chippy painting techniques.
Molding is a simple way to enhance the look of your fireplace and add personality. Utilize molding pieces in a variety of shapes and sizes to frame your mantel to create an elegant design. For instance, the small rectangles that flank this mantel provide a contrast to its linear elegant design, while the tall, wispy branches and stacked pumpkins give a classic autumnal aesthetic.
Accents of decorative design with different shapes can also help your mantel display appear more dynamic and prevent a cluttered look. A pair of round mirrors is an ideal alternative to rectangular sconces. A grouping of candles of different sizes adds a subtle accent to this neutral-toned display. A large piece of art can also be used to create a focal point against an uncluttered background.
If you're looking to add a flat-panel TV into your living space, opt for an invisible model that appears like a built-in bookcase. This design with recessed edges allows the flat-screen to blend into the wall that surrounds it, and keeps your fireplace looking its best.
A minimalist design can make your mantel appear sleek and modern. By overlapping thin frames on your mantel can help the items inside each frame to be noticed. This is also an excellent option to add an element of color to a neutral display. Here, a large painting takes center stage in this modern room while a tan jug and brown candlesticks provide restrained pop.
Height
As a focal point of the room, the mantel should be at an appropriate height for viewing. It should also fit with the dimensions of the fireplace as well as the overall size of the room. Unsuitable heights could create a fire hazard or make the fireplace look less attractive. Talk to a design expert at a showroom that is specialized in electric fireplaces, to determine the appropriate height.
Typically the mantel and fireplace should be positioned at least 12 inches higher than the fireplace opening. This height must be maintained in order to comply with building codes and prevent fire dangers. The firebox must also be at minimum 18" above the floor. These clearances are necessary because the heat generated by the flames will radiate up through the front of the firebox and into the room. The clearances are intended to prevent combustible materials like carpets, curtains, and draperies catching fire.
Another factor to consider when installing a mantel is the amount of available space for storage. This is especially important for homeowners who do not have huge backyards or garages. If space is a problem, a fireplace surround that has a built-in wood rack may be an alternative. They can be used to store fireplace tools, firewood, and other accessories.
A mantel is an excellent spot to display photos of your loved ones and other items of decor. You can add lamps, figurines, and other ornaments to give it a more personal 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.
In contrast to traditional brick fireplaces wall-mount electric fireplaces are mounted within the wall and do not require chimneys. They are extremely safe and are typically installed in homes that do not have enough room for traditional fireplaces. 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's crucial to ensure that the unit and mantel are set at the right height. A fireplace that isn't properly installed could cause fires, resulting in the destruction of property and even death. Additionally, if your mantel is not high enough, it could block the heat from reaching the fireplace and the floor.
Design
A free-standing fireplace could add architectural interest to the wall of a living area without the hassle and expense of bricks and mortar. Decorate the mantel with a variety of artwork, mirrors and vases to create a welcoming hearth that can serve as the focal point. Arranging and layering the vignette isn't easy It's essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the room as well as your own aesthetic when choosing decorative pieces. Symmetrical arrangements project a classic arrangement, but if you prefer a more informal arrangement, mix up the sizes of your items to create a balanced appearance. Here, two tall metal urns, both with similar shapes, are placed alongside a shorter vase, which is more delicately cut. This creates an interesting contrast between the wood paneling and modern design of the fireplace wall.
When deciding on the overall design of your mantel, you need to consider the texture and color of your surrounding walls. If you have a neutral space, consider installing an appropriate pattern of wallpaper that is coordinating or complementary to the fireplace mantel to create visual harmony. You can also choose a bold pattern or color as an eye-catching background for your vignette. However, it is crucial to keep your mantel decorations in a subdued palette to ensure that the overall style is a balanced one.
If electric fireplace and mantel working with a neutral or white wall, add personality to the space by using mirrors and vases that have interesting textures. A wooden bead garland for instance, can be an element of nature and work well with the brown paint of this non-working fire place. The textured surfaces of a stoneware pitcher for flowers and the black iron candle holder add depth and contrast to your assemblage.
Choose decorative elements that are meaningful to you and your loved ones. A framed piece embroidered fabric that has been handed through generations, a vintage grates, and a pair of antique brass candlesticks are an ideal combination to give a unique look to a fireplace that's not functional. This collection is simple to alter for different holidays and events by simply mixing different florals and seasonal items.
Function
Mirrors, picture frames and decorative accents add dimension to a fireplace mantel that is freestanding. Mix shapes and sizes to avoid clutter. Your display will look more balanced and thoughtful than haphazard.
The right mantel decorations can transform your living space into an inviting place to gather. Use a color that matches or contrasts with your wall paint to create a focal point. In this room, charcoal paint unifies the living area and makes the wooden fireplace stand out. It is also a good match with the dark wooden fireplace insert.
Put some natural elements on your fireplace to make it look fresh and new. Garlands made of wood, brass frame mirrors and black iron candle holders are a perfect combination to create a unified layering style. The stacked candles add warmth to the space, so you can sit and enjoy your fireplace even when there's no fire.
To give your mantel a personal style, consider using family mementos as accents. Sara Ligorria Tramp, a homeowner from California, put together an embroidered piece of fabric belonging to her mother. describes it added vintage grates to create a unique style. Add an antique or flea-market find to the mix for an eclectic and cohesive style.
Don't worry if your home isn't equipped with a fireplace. A fake fireplace can be an excellent feature for an open or modern space. You can put in an electric fire place with a built in TV mount. These versatile fireplaces offer all the features of a traditional fireplace but without any of the safety concerns.
Mantels can serve as a focal piece for your home or to display a bold painting or statement artwork. To make your art or artwork stand out, pick a paint color that is distinct against the background of your mantel. You can match the color of your paint to another element in the space like the blue walls or Roman clay surround.
If you're building a brand new home or remodeling your existing space, think about customizing your mantel to add architectural details and visual interest. For instance, you could add a carved corbel at the end of a beam or opt for an arched panel for the fireplace's surround. Add decorative trim and crown molding.