How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel
A free-standing mantel can be a focal point in a living space. 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 vases.
Symmetrical arrangements create an orderly feel and classic style. To maintain the balance, choose an object with similar dimensions but with different styles, such as these terra-cotta pots and delftware-style vases.
Material
When paired with the right decor, free standing fireplace mantels can elevate the appearance of a wall. When selecting mirrors, artwork, and other decorative accents for the space, take into consideration the material used to make your mantel and the style of the wall around it. For a more rustic style paint your mantel with an unexpected shade, or incorporate an element of nature like trailing vines to make it blend with the overall design. You can also embrace your shabby-chic style and give your mantel a fresh appearance by using chippy painting techniques.
Molding is an easy way to improve the look of your fireplace and add character. Use molding pieces of different shapes and sizes to frame the mantel. This will give it an overall appearance. For instance, the narrow rectangles that flank the mantel add a visual contrast to its linear and sleek design. the tall wispy branches and stacked pumpkins give an autumnal style that is timeless.
Decorate your home with decorative accents that have different shapes. can also help your mantel look more lively and avoid clutter. A pair of round mirrors is an excellent alternative to rectangular sconces. A grouping of different-sized candlesticks adds a subtle pop of color to this neutral-toned display. Also, a large work of art can provide an accent piece that is distinct against the background.
A flat-panel television can alter the appearance of a traditional mantel If you're looking to include one in your home design, opt for a hidden model that is reminiscent of a built-in shelf. This design of recessed allows your flat-screen to blend in with the walls surrounding it and ensure that your fireplace looks its very best.
A minimalist design will make your mantel appear sleek and modern. By laying a thin, overlapping frames on your mantel you can make the pieces inside each frame stand out. This is an excellent method to add a splash of color to a neutral display. A large painting takes center stage in this contemporary room, while a tan jug and brown candlesticks add a touch of color.
Height

The mantel should be situated at an elevation that is appropriate to the room. It should also complement the dimensions of the fireplace and overall scale of the room. A wrong height can create an increase in fire danger or make the fireplace look less attractive. The best way to determine the right height is to speak with a design specialist at the showroom that is specialized in electric fireplaces.
The mantel and fireplace should be installed at minimum 12" above the opening of the fireplace. This is necessary to meet building codes and prevent fire hazards. In addition, the firebox must be at least 18 inches higher than the floor. 72 inch electric fireplace with mantel are required because the heat generated by the flames will be radiating upwards through the front of the firebox, and into the room. The clearances are designed to keep things that are flammable, like curtains, carpets and draperies from coming into fire.
When mounting a mantel, you should take into account the amount of storage space that is available. This is particularly important for homeowners with small backyards or garages. If space is limited, a fireplace surround that has a built-in wood rack may be a viable option. They can be used to store fireplace tools, firewood and other equipment.
A mantel is a great spot to display family photos and other decorative items. It can be adorned with figurines, lamps, and other accessories to give the space an individual look. Be careful not to overload shelves, as this can lead to damage or spillage. Also, it's an excellent idea to put coasters under vases and other items to avoid water rings.
Wall-mount electric fire places aren't like traditional brick fireplaces. They are mounted on the wall and do not require a chimney. They are extremely safe and are typically employed in homes that do not have enough space for traditional fireplaces. This type of fireplace is a good choice for apartments and condos where the firebox is not accessible.
When installing a wall-mount electric fireplace, it is essential to make sure that the unit and mantel are installed at the correct height. A fireplace that is not properly installed could pose a fire risk, which can result in damage to property or even loss of life. If the mantel is too low, it could hinder the heat from reaching the firebox or the floor.
Design
A free-standing fireplace can add architectural interest to the wall of a living room without the hassle and expense of masonry. Decorate the fireplace mantel with artwork, mirrors and vase arrangements to create a cozy and inviting hearth. It isn't easy to layer and arrange the arrangement, so it is important to think about the space and your personal style when choosing decorative pieces. If you want an informal appearance, then mix the sizes to create a harmonious arrangement. Here, a pair of tall metal urns that have similar shapes is placed next to smaller, more delicately carved vase for a mix of shapes and materials that contrast with the contemporary wood paneling that is affixed to the wall of the fireplace.
When deciding on the overall style of your mantel, you need to consider the color and texture of the walls around it. If you have a neutral-colored wall contemplate putting up patterns that are coordinating or complementary to the fireplace mantel to create visual harmony. A bold color or pattern can also be an eye-catching backdrop for your vignette but it's crucial to keep the colors in your mantel decorations to ensure that the overall design is harmonious.
If you're surrounded by white or neutral-colored walls add personality using accents like mirrors and vases that have interesting textures. A wooden bead garland, for instance, can provide natural elements and go well with the brown paint of this non-working fire place. The rough surfaces of the stoneware vase for flowers and the black iron candle holder will provide depth and contrast to any collection.
To create a unique, eclectic mantel, pick ornaments that hold sentimental value for your family and you. For example, a framed piece of embroidery that was passed through generations, a vintage grate, and a set of antique brass candlesticks are a great combination to add some personality to this non-working fireplace. This collection is easily adapted to various holidays and occasions. Simply add different florals or season items.
Function
Mirrors frames, picture frames and other decorative accessories add interest to a fireplace mantel that is freestanding. Mix sizes and shapes to avoid a messy appearance. This way, your display looks balanced and intentional instead of haphazard.
The right mantel decoration can transform your living room into an inviting place to gather. Create a focal point choosing an accent color that contrasts with or matches your wall paint. In this room charcoal paint ties together the living area and makes the fireplace stand out. It also complements the dark wooden fireplace insert.
For a quick refresh, pick up some natural elements and set them on your mantel. A wooden bead garlands, brass frame mirrors and black iron candle holders are a perfect combination to create a cohesive layering style. The stacked candle holders also add a warm glow, making it possible to enjoy the mantel even if there's no fire.
To inject your mantel with personal style, use family mementos as accents. Here, a homeowner named Sara Ligorria-Tramp put up a piece of embroidery from her mother. She then added a vintage grate to create an original design. When you add an antique or found at a flea market to the mix, the result is an aesthetically pleasing, multi-faceted look.
Do not fret if your home does not have an actual fireplace. A faux fireplace can be an ideal option for the modern or transitional space. You can also install an electric fireplace with built-in TV mount. These versatile fireplaces offer all the advantages of a traditional fireplace but without any of the safety issues.
A mantel can serve as the focal point of your room however, it can also be a backdrop for an art piece that stands out or a striking painting. To make your artwork or painting pop, choose a paint color that stands out against the background of your mantel. You can match the shade of your paint to a different feature in the room, such as the blue walls in this home and Roman clay surround.
If you're building a brand new home or renovating an existing space, consider customizing your mantel to add architectural details and visual interest. You could, for example adding an engraved corbel to the top of a beam. You could also consider an arched fireplace surround. Complete the look by adding decorative trims and crown molding.