Tips for Choosing the Perfect Fireplace Mantel

Texture

When choosing a fireplace mantel the selection of color, texture, and lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing your space. Dark tones tend to hide character, while light stains tend to enhance the character and texture. A sand-away stain may enhance the weathered features like in the example above. When purchasing a mantel, try to be aware of the finer details that you value in a piece. Many different finishing techniques can be applied to enhance or dull features. Even the wood grain itself may be enhanced or reduced depending on the stain, sanding techniques, clear coat, and the type of wood used.

Consider Your Lighting

The impact of lighting cannot be underestimated. Strategically placed lighting can highlight the mantel’s features and cast soft shadows. This can accentuate its texture and color, and thereby transform the fireplace as a whole into a captivating focal point within your living space. It's also important to consider that a light stain will be a safer choice in a dim lit environment such as a basement. It's often possible to darken the wood further, but it is very difficult or even impossible to lighten the colour.

Colour Selection

For reclaimed pieces (and most others) we often recommend not limiting yourself to directly matching everything in the room. You'll want the colours and textures to work together, but you probably won't actually enjoy everything looking the same. This can limit your options when adding furniture and decor later, and it can make a space look a little bland. A reasonable amount of variety can really add life to a space.

Also remember that colour is very subjective. If possible, It's always best to bring a stain sample home to see how well it actually works in your space.

Communicate Your Expectations

Be sure to be as specific and detailed as possible when ordering a custom mantel. Be aware of the fine details that you appreciate, just as well as the ones that you don't. Be aware of the surrounding furnishings. Does your brown flooring have a red, amber, coffee brown, or grey undertone? Does your table have a low or high sheen? Are these features that you want to see on your fireplace as well?

At the end of the day, do your best to understand what features you do and don't want for your space. But don't stress! If you're having a difficult time making a decision we are here to help. Ask for our advice and take advantage of our many years of experience. The choice is always yours, but our understanding of design, colour theory, and building knowledge will be sure to help you make a decision you're happy with.

Communication is the key for us to provide you with the perfect custom piece.

Need help with your project?

While we primarily serve southern Ontario, our mantels and shelves can also be shipped throughout Canada at reasonable rates. Ask how we can prep these for an easy DIY install.