How to Create Architectural Interest on Fireplace Mantels

A fireplace mantel, not a big-screen television, should be the focal point of the room. Creating an architecturally interesting mantel ensures that whenever the living or family room is entered, what is seen first is the fireplace mantel and not any other decorative elements of the room. Turning your mantel into the center piece is not as difficult as it sounds. Before choosing the correct method, consider the overall decorative style of your home.You don’t want to modernize your mantel if the rest of your house is classic, just as you don’t want to choose a classic stone covered mantel if your furniture is mid-century modern.

Large mirror
Painting
Wall paint
Stone
Mortar
Fireplace surround
Tile

Instructions

- 1
  Hang something over the mantel. A large mirror or original piece of artwork that complements your decor will help your mantel stand out.
- 2
  Paint the mantel and space above it a color that contrasts with the rest of the room. This works best if the rest of your home is decorated in a modern style. For example, if your walls are white, paint the fireplace mantel a bold shade of red or blue.
- 3
  Cover the entire mantel and the space above it in stone. Sketch out the design and begin laying the stone, holding each piece together with mortar. This will give the fireplace an architecturally interesting rustic look that complements a classic or simple style of décor.
- 4
  Choose a pre-made fireplace surround. A surround that is built to your specifications and style adds to the décor without having to do any heavy labor.
- 5
  Cover the surface of the mantel with ceramic or mirrored tiles. Creating a pattern from individual ceramic tiles is rather easy, as is coating the entire surface with mirrored tiles. Both can work with any type of décor, depending on the colors and patterns chosen.

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