Family Heirlooms Find a Place of Honor on the Fireplace Mantel

Where in the world would we hang our Christmas stockings, if it weren’t for the fireplace mantel? The fireplace mantel is an essential part of the fireplace and provides a focal point for the room. Mantels are often distinctive in both their design and workmanship. When adding or replacing a mantel, you must ensure that it is fire-resistant and properly anchored to the wall.

A fireplace mantel is sometimes called a chimney piece. Basically, the mantel is a decorative framework surrounding the fireplace. Although mantels can be simple in design, they are more often ornate and intricately carved. They are often the most artistic piece in the room. Mantel designs range from a simple beam shelf above the fireplace to complex designs that extend from floor to ceiling.

Some contemporary homes have fireplaces without mantels. This minimalist idea is often carried throughout the home. However, many consider the fireplace mantel to be an essential component of the fireplace. The mantel, along with the fireplace, becomes the focus of any room it occupies. Mantels are most frequently as a way to display items that have some importance. There is the feeling that the mantel is a place of honor and only the most precious items are allowed to reside there.

Fireplace mantels offer the opportunity for creative design ideas. You are not limited to a simple shelf or by what the builder originally installed. You can be as creative as you dare. Almost any material can be used, assuming that it can withstand the heat of the fireplace below (remember, heat goes up and the mantel may get warmer than you think). Wooden mantels can be left natural, stained or painted. Mantels can be constructed in place around the chimney, or they may be built as a separate unit and installed. A common solution today is to find antique mantels and have them restored for installation in your home.