Having a fireplace that fits in with your décor is going to depend on the fireplace mantel design that you choose. Most people think of a traditional look when they visualize a fireplace mantel. However, a fireplace mantel is an excellent way for one to show their flare and wood-working skills. However you go about choosing a fireplace mantel, be sure that the mantel is both elegant and structurally sound.
Mantel builders usually have a show case of fireplace mantel designs available on their website. Additionally, people who have spent time installing a custom mantel will love to tell you about it and show it off. These are some great sources of inspiration and give you a heads up on potential pitfalls. If you have a non-traditional fireplace, like an electric fireplace, you can still find or build a great mantel for it.
Get an idea of what other people have done in regards to fireplaces and mantels by surfing the internet and looking at all the pictures. There are so many designs floating around the internet, there is no reason you can’t find a design that suits you and your family. Even a simple electric heater can have a beautiful mantel. Regardless of weather it’s made of wood or stone, the mantel should provide an aesthetic that resonates with your style. Mantels on outdoor fireplaces are just as important as the mantels on indoor ones.
Be sure to give some thought to your mantel accessories. Do you want your mantel to support a TV? Or will it hold your knick-knacks or trophies? Perhaps you want several shelves to support your collection of first editions. You can change your mantel serve a different function. Mantel shelves can be put into the original design or added later. However, if you don’t plan ahead to allow these changes in the future, it can be very expensive.