How to Decorate a Free Standing Fireplace Mantel
A free-standing fireplace mantel adds an attractive focal point to a living area. Install a large mirror that is reflective to visually expand the space. You can also display a collection of frames artwork and interesting vases.
Symmetrical arrangements create an orderly and classic style. To maintain balance, choose two items that have similar dimensions and distinct styles - such as these terracotta pots and delftware vase.
Material
When when paired with the right decor, free standing fireplace mantels can enhance a wall's appearance. When choosing artwork, mirrors, and other decorative accents for your space, consider the material used to make your mantel and the style of the wall around it. For a more rustic look, paint your mantel an unusual shade or add an element that is organic like trailing vines to make it blend with the room's design. You can also embrace your Shabby Chic style and give your old mantel a facelift by using chippy paint techniques to achieve an modernized vintage look.
Molding is a simple way to improve the look of your fireplace and add character. Use molding pieces of various shapes and sizes to frame the mantel. This will create a cohesive look. For example, the narrow rectangles that flank this mantel offer a contrast to its linear and sleek design. the tall wispy branches and stacked pumpkins lend an autumnal style that is timeless.
Decorate your home with decorative accents that have different shapes. can make your mantel look more vibrant and avoid clutter. A pair of round mirrors is a beautiful alternative to rectangular sconces. A grouping of candles of different sizes adds a subtle accent to this neutral-toned display. A large piece of art can be used to create an accent against a neutral background.
A flat-panel television can alter a traditional mantel's appearance If you're looking to incorporate one into your home design, opt for a hidden version that looks like a shelf built into the wall. This design with recessed edges allows the flat-screen to blend into the wall surrounding it and keep your fireplace looking great.
A minimalist style will make your mantel look streamlined and contemporary. By layering a thin, overlaid frames on your mantel you can make the items inside each frame stand out. This is an ideal method to add some colour to neutral decor. In this contemporary room an enormous painting is the main focus while a tan vase as well as candlesticks in brown add a subtle pop.
Height
As a focal point within the room, the mantel should be at an appropriate height for viewing. It should also fit with the dimensions of the fireplace as well as the overall size of the room. A wrong height can create the risk of fire or make the appearance of the fireplace less attractive. Consult a design expert at a showroom that specializes in electric fireplaces to determine the correct height.
Typically the fireplace and mantel must be placed at least 12 inches above the fireplace opening. This height must be maintained in order to comply with building codes and to prevent fire dangers. Additionally the firebox should be at least 18 inches higher than the floor. These clearances are essential because the heat from the flames will radiate across the front of the firebox, and into the room. The clearances are designed to protect things that are flammable, like carpet, curtains, and draperies from catching fire.
Another factor to consider when installing a mantel is the available space for storage. This is important for homeowners with small backyards or garages. If large electric fireplace with mantel is limited, a fireplace surround with built-in wood racks could be a good alternative. They can be used to store firewood, fireplace tools and other equipment.

A mantel is a wonderful spot to display family photos and other ornaments. You can decorate it with lamps, figurines, and other ornaments to create a unique look. Be careful not to overload the shelves as it could cause damage or spillage. Also, it's a good idea to use coasters under vases as well as other objects to avoid water rings.
Wall-mount electric fire places aren't like traditional brick fireplaces. They are mounted on the wall, and do require chimneys. They are extremely safe and are typically installed in homes that don't have enough room for traditional fireplaces. This type of fireplace is an excellent choice for apartments and condos in which the fireplace isn't accessible.
It is essential to install the wall-mount electric fireplace at the correct height. A fireplace that is not properly installed can result in fires, which can cause property damage, and even death. If the mantel is too low, it could stop the heat from reaching the fireplace or the floor.
Design
A free-standing fireplace could add architectural interest to the wall of a living area without the hassle and expense of masonry. Decorate the mantel with a selection of artwork, mirrors and vases for an inviting hearth that can function as an accent piece. It isn't easy to layer and arrange the display, so think about the space and your style when selecting decorative items. If you prefer an informal style, mix the sizes to create a harmonious arrangement. In this case, two tall metal urns, both with similar shapes, are paired with smaller vase that is more delicately made. This creates an intriguing contrast between the wood paneling and the modern shape of the fireplace wall.
Take into consideration the color and texture surrounding your mantel when you're deciding the overall design. If you have a neutral-colored wall contemplate putting up patterns that are complementing or coordinating with your fireplace's mantel for visual harmony. A vibrant color or a striking pattern can also provide a striking background for your vignette but it's important to keep the colors of your mantel decorations subdued so that the overall design is well-balanced.
If you have white or neutral walls, add personality to the room by using mirrors and vases that have interesting textures. A wooden bead garland, for instance, can provide an element of nature and work perfectly with the brown paint of this non-working fire pit. Similarly, the rough surfaces of a stoneware pitcher for flowers and an iron candle holder in black provide depth and a contrast to your assemblage.
Select decorative elements that are meaningful to you and your loved ones. A framed piece of embroidered fabric that has been passed through generations, a vintage grate and a pair antique brass candlesticks would be a great mix to give a unique look to a fireplace that's not functional. This assemblage is easily adapted to various holidays and occasions. Simply add different florals or season items.
Function
Mirrors, picture frames and decorative accents add dimension to a free-standing fireplace mantel. Mix sizes and shapes to avoid clutter. So, your arrangement appears well-thought-out and planned instead of random.
The right mantel decorations can transform your living room into an inviting place to gather. Choose a color that complements or contrasts with your wall paint to create a focal feature. In this space charcoal paint unifies the living area and makes the wooden fireplace stand out. It is also a great match with the dark wood of the huge fireplace insert.
To refresh your decor, pick up some natural elements and put them on your mantel. A wooden bead garland, mirrors with frames made of brass and black iron candle holders combine to create a layered appearance. The stacked candles also add warmth to the room, so you can relax around your mantel even when there's no fire.
Use family mementos to add a personal touch to your mantel. Sara Ligorria Tramp, a homeowner from California, put together a piece embroidered fabric belonging to her mother. She also added vintage grates for a distinctive style. When you add an antique or found at a flea market to the mix, you get a unified, eclectic style.
If your home isn't equipped with a fireplace, don't fret. A faux fireplace can be an ideal feature for the modern or transitional space. You can even put in an electric fireplace with an integrated TV mount. These versatile fixtures give you all the advantages of a traditional fireplace, without any of the safety concerns.
A mantel can serve as a focal point for your living space, but it can also be a backdrop for an art piece that stands out or a bold painting. Choose a paint colour that will stand out against the mantel to make your painting or artwork stand out. You can match the hue of your paint to a different aspect of the room, such as the blue walls in this home and Roman clay surround.
Consider modifying your fireplace mantel if are building a brand new house or renovating an existing one. This will add architectural detail and visual appeal. For instance, you could put a carved corbel on the end of a beam or decide to use an arched panel for the fireplace's surround. Complete modern electric fireplace with mantel by adding decorative trim and crown molding.