Whether made from rock, metal or wood, the cosmetic ledge we call a mantel has rested fireplaces for decades. Mantels display our family photos, art and accessories — often all of the things that we treasure the most. As the focal draw of every fireplace, it should be worthy of showing your most precious items. See whether any of the inventive and beautiful mantels here will inspire you.
Tali Hardonag Architect
Railroad tie. A repurposed railroad tie sends a great design message for bold rustic interiors.
Design tip: Railroad ties can be extremely twisted and warped. When you’re hunting for a salvaged railroad tie, it is important to find one that is as flat as possible.
Amanda Webster Design
Limestone. This clean and timeless stone is perfect for a contemporary atmosphere. The thickness of the mantel and its particular placement supply just the ideal balance for your fireplace and the space.
Design tip: Limestone comes in many different sorts and styles — and some are much more cost effective than others. Ask a designer or do your research carefully before settling on a slab.
Paddle Creek Style
Log. A log mantel such as this one virtually one-ups a railroad tie for authentic pastoral style. The log pictured here has had a portion of the very best carefully sawed off to make the perfect shelf-like platform.
Design tip: whilst installment may be tricky, locating a log of your own to use for a mantel is easy and incredibly affordable.
Linda Seeger Interior Design
Cast stone. For the more broadly motivated home, pick a cast-stone (like cement) mantel such as the one displayed here. They are manufactured in countless styles with just as many border profiles, so you’re bound to fall in love with something which’s ideal for your property.
Design tip: This really is a great choice for a customized hearth, also. Blend a cast-stone mantel using a cast-stone hearth for a cohesive design.
Claudia Leccacorvi
Stainless Steel. Break up all of the natural-looking materials in a house with a stainless steel mantel. A bit of bling within an interior is always a good thing.
Design tip: Stainless Steel can be costly, so be aware before you begin shopping. Also, ensure that it’s not put too near the fire, as this substance can heat up fast.
Portal Design Inc
Tile. Cover a new or existing mantel with a gorgeous tile of your choice. The tile design here shows off visible grout lines, which collectively turn into another wonderful detail with this stunning mantel.
Design tip: Use grout at a color that contrasts the tile for an especially eye-catching design.
Charmean Neithart Interiors
Stucco. Some Baths look best when they blend in effortlessly with their surroundings. The mantel pictured this is coated with the exact same stucco substance as on the walls. Superior lines are highlighted rather than improved.
Style tip: Stucco is all about texture. Work with your installer from the beginning to be certain that you get the exact look and feel that you desire.
Birdseye Design
Marble. This oversized marble mantel anchors this huge living room perfectly. The black marble and its own fitting hearth tie the room together without appearing too matchy.
Design tip: Granite includes a lot of motion, so be ready for a lot of veining and feathering of different colors. This is perfect for those homeowners who want a completely distinctive look.
The Office of Charles de Lisle
Wood. This streamlined piece of wood used as a mantel is perfect for this decorative interior. The one pictured here is referred to as a floating shelf, since there are not any visible brackets supporting it. Such stability!
Design tip: Correct installation is of extreme importance for this kind of mantel. As there are no brackets, it requires solid inner supports to have the ability to carry heavy items.