How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel
A fireplace mantel freestanding adds an element of interest to a living room. Hang an oversized mirror to visually increase the space and reflect light around the room or display a collection of your own with interesting framed art and vase.
Symmetrical arrangements convey an orderly and classic style. To maintain balance, choose a pair of items with similar dimensions and styles - such as these terracotta pots and delftware vases.
Material
When combined with the appropriate decor, free standing fireplace mantels can elevate the look of a wall. When choosing mirrors, artwork, or other decorative accents for your space, take into consideration the material used to make your mantel as well as the style of the wall surrounding it. To create a rustic appearance paint your mantel in an unusual shade or add an element that is organic such as trailing vines to make it blend with the overall design. You can also embrace your inner shabby-chic style and give your mantel a new look by employing paint techniques that are chippy.
Molding is a simple way to enhance the look of your fireplace and add personality. Use molding pieces in various sizes and shapes to frame your mantel to create an aesthetically pleasing design. For instance, the narrow rectangles that flank the mantel add a visual contrast to its sleek elegant design, while the tall wispy branches and stacked pumpkins lend a classic autumnal aesthetic.
The variety of shapes of decorative accents can make your mantel display look more lively. This will avoid clutter. For instance, a pair of round mirrors provides an elegant alternative to rectangular sconces and a grouping of varying-sized candlesticks delivers restrained pop for this neutral-toned display. A large work of art can also be used to create a focal point against a neutral backdrop.
A flat-panel television can alter the appearance of a traditional mantel, so if you need to include one in your room design, opt for a hidden model that looks like a shelf built into the wall. This design with recessed edges lets the flat-screen TV blend in with the surrounding wall and keeps your fireplace looking great.
A minimalist design can make your mantel appear modern and sleek. Layering thin, overlapping frames on your mantel can help the items inside each frame stand out. This is also ideal for adding some color to a neutral display. Here, a large painting is the focal point in this modern room while a tan jug and brown candlesticks add a touch of color.
Height
The mantel should be at a viewing height that is appropriate to the room. It should also proportion to the dimensions of the fireplace as well as the overall room size. The wrong heights could create a fire risk or make the appearance of the fireplace less appealing. The best method to determine the correct height is to consult with a design specialist at the showroom that is specialized in electric fireplaces.
Typically, the mantel and fireplace must be placed at least 12 inches above the opening of the fireplace. This height must be maintained in order to comply with building codes and to prevent fire hazards. The firebox must also be at least 18" above the floor. These clearances are necessary because the heat radiates across the front and into the room from the firebox. The clearances are intended to prevent combustible materials 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 especially important for homeowners with small garages and backyards. If space is a concern then a fireplace that has an integrated wood rack can be a good alternative. They can be used to store firewood, tools and other accessories.
A mantel is an excellent place to display photos of your family as well as other decorative items. You can add figurines, lamps and other accessories to create a unique appearance. Be careful not to overload shelves since this could lead to damage or spillage. Also, it is an excellent idea to put coasters under vases as well as other objects to avoid water rings.
Unlike traditional brick fireplaces, wall-mount electric fireplaces are installed in the wall and don't require chimneys. These units are safe and can be used in homes where there isn't enough space for a traditional fireplace. This type of fireplace is a great option for condos and apartments where the fireplace is not accessible.
When installing a wall-mounted electric fireplace, it's important to ensure that the fireplace and mantel are placed at the proper height. A fireplace that is not properly installed could cause fires, resulting in the destruction of property and even death. In addition, if the mantel isn't high enough, it could block the heat from reaching the fireplace and the floor.
Design
A free-standing fireplace can add architectural interest to a living room's wall without the expense and hassle of brickwork. Decorate the fireplace's mantel with mirrors, artwork, and vase arrangements to create a cozy and inviting hearth. It can be difficult to layer and arrange the arrangement, so it is important to consider the space and your personal style when choosing decorative objects. If fireplacesandstove prefer an unpretentious look, then mix up the sizes to create a harmonious arrangement. In this case, two tall metal urns with similar shapes, are placed alongside a shorter vase, which is more delicately made. This creates an interesting contrast between the wood paneling and the modern shape of the fireplace wall.
Think about the texture and color surrounding your mantel when you're deciding the overall style. 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 bold pattern or color to create a striking background for your vignette. However, it is important to keep your mantel decorations in a subdued palette to ensure that the overall style is a balanced one.
If you're working with a white or neutral-colored wall, infuse the area with individuality by using accents like mirrors and vases that have interesting textures. For instance, a wooden bead garland can add a natural element to your decor and blends perfectly with the brown paint of this non-working fireplace. Similar to the smooth surfaces of a stoneware pitcher for flowers and a black iron candle holder provide depth and a contrast to your collection.
For a unique, eclectic mantel, choose ornaments that hold sentimental value to you and your family. A framed piece embroidered fabric that has been handed down through the generations, a repurposed grates and a pair of antique brass candlesticks are the perfect combination to give a unique look to a fireplace that's not functional. This set of items is easy to change out for various holidays and events by simply adding different florals or seasonal items.
Function
Decorative accents, mirrors and picture frames add a sense of style to your freestanding fireplace mantel. Mix shapes and sizes to avoid clutter. Your display will look more logical and balanced rather than random.
The right mantel decor will transform your living room into a cozy space to gather. Create a focal point by choosing the color that contrasts or matches the wall paint. In this space charcoal paint ties together the living room and makes the fireplace stand out. It also complements the dark wood fireplace insert.
Put some natural elements on your mantel to give it a fresh look. A wooden bead garland brass frame mirror and black iron candle holders combine to create a layered style. The stacked candles also add an inviting glow to the room, so you can sit and enjoy your fireplace even if there's no fire.
Make use of family photos to add a personal touch your mantel. The homeowner Sara Ligorria Tramp framed a piece of fabric that was embroidered by her mother. She also added a vintage grate to create an unusual design. Add a vintage or flea market purchase to create an eclectic and cohesive look.
If your home doesn't have a fireplace, don't fret. A faux fireplace can be a great option for a modern or transitional room. You can set up an electric fire place that has a built in TV mount. These fixtures are versatile and offer all the functionality of traditional fireplaces without the safety concerns.
A mantel can serve as an important focal point in your living space, but it can also be a backdrop for a statement artwork or a striking painting. To make your art or painting stand out, select an accent color that stands out against the background of your mantel. You can match the hue of your paint with another aspect of the room, such as the blue walls of this house and Roman clay surround.
If you're building a new home or renovating an existing space, consider customizing your mantel to add architectural detail and visual interest. For instance, you could add a carved corbel at the end of a beam or decide to use an arched panel as your fireplace's surround. Finish the look by adding decorative trim and crown molding.