A fireplace is incomplete without a mantel that surrounds it. A well designed fireplace mantel can enhance the elegance and visual appeal of your living room. So while designing your living room, you need to give special attention to design as it can be the focal point of the whole room.
Fireplace mantels have a long and rich history. Some of the earliest ones, known as chimney pieces then, date back to the twelfth century. Throughout Europe, the architectural styles were influenced by the wave of Renaissance styles and ideas. Mantels, being one of the most ornately decorated items, were no exception to this. To this day, the effect of renaissance architecture can still be seen in contemporary mantel designs.
The grandeur and importance of mantels was such that they were elevated to the point of being status symbols. Even today, though modern heating systems have replaced traditional fireplaces largely, the charm of having a fireplace with a decorated mantel is not lost.
Choosing Designs
Let us see what things need to be taken into consideration while designing and deciding on the kind of mantel you want.
Cost of Construction
Cost is one of the most important consideration and that is largely dictated by the type of base material you use for design. Prices may range from $1,000 to upwards of $5,000 depending on the material and labor costs of construction. This cost range itself will give you an idea about the range of styles that you can opt for when choosing one out of the many ideas.
Matching Styling
Another important thing that should be taken into consideration is that your mantel design should be in sync with the overall design of your living room. Otherwise, it stands out as oddly different and out of place. Deciding on your budget and styling will narrow down your choices.
Design Ideas
Considering that fireplace mantels have been around for more than 800 years, it is but natural that you have a range of choices when it comes to a mantel.
Wooden Mantels
Wooden ones are the most inexpensive in terms of cost. They also offer a very wide range of styling and decoration options for you to select from. There are many wood materials available for choice. You can choose any one from cherry, oak, pine and maple. The advantage of having wooden fireplaces is that they can be easily replaced and remodeled.
Marble Mantels
The costliest of all the choices, marble mantels give a solid and elegant feel to the overall ambiance of the room. Decorating ideas for these mantels are many, including hand crafted decoration that is provided by default by the sculptors. Depending on the quality of marble used and the detailing of handcrafting, the prices may be anything in excess of $5000. However, the cost will definitely be worth every penny when you see the end result.
Brick Mantels
In case you plan to place it in a corner, you can go for a brick mantel, that comes in the mid range compared to wooden and marble mantels. They can be a simple yet elegant addition to a country style home if backed by innovative decoration and excellent overall finishing.
There are prefabricated and custom-made mantels available today. You always have the option of building one on your own, if you possess the required expertise. Choose one which suits your style and budget.
