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The Mantel Shoppe News
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June 21, 2012
- Where to Put a New Fireplace
Gas log insert fireplaces make it easy to enjoy the warmth and the ambiance of a fireplace, but where should one be installed? Most living rooms today have an economy of space. Every wall either has furniture in place being used, or the layout does not offer many options. Savvy homeowners have found a way to incorporate a fireplace into existing room configurations in a very unique way.
The focal point of most any living room is the television set. Today, many homes have big screen TVs with surround sound speaker systems. TVs have video game systems, DVD players and DVRs connected to them. When the family gathers in the living room, their eyes go to the TV set. A fireplace used to be a focal point long before TV screens became a part of the main living space in our homes.
Human beings are drawn to fire. We become mesmerized as flames dance over logs. The flickers of light and warmth bring feelings of calm. Such a benefit in today's hectic world is welcomed. However, the sofa and recliners are adjusted for viewing the TV. How can a family enjoy both in a small living room?
- Where to Put a New Gas Log Fireplace
Large wooden entertainment centers of years ago have given way to wall mounted big screen televisions with shelves that hold components. Space under the TV is often wasted even in cramped living rooms. Many homes electing to install a fireplace are putting it right under the wall mounted television, inside an enclosure.
More elaborate installations include faux stone walls and a faux stone fireplace with a large flat mantle area to hold TV components. Since the fireplace insert is designed to direct heat forward, it is not an issue of causing a heat buildup for components above it. However, heat dissipation must be considered in the design.
Most installations move the fireplace insert far enough forward that any heat rising does not get close to the TV suspended on the wall. Insulation around the insert prevents the large, flat mantle surface from becoming warm.
This installation keeps the main focal point of the living room in the same spot. The warmth and ambiance of a fireplace can be enjoyed separately or at the same time TV is enjoyed. Most new fireplaces come with a remote that automatically starts and stops them. A home can have real heat and real fire from a fireplace controlled by a remote control similar to the one used on the TV set. The old and new blend well together.
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June 14, 2012
Fireplace mantels come in a wide variety of styles, designs, colors, materials and so much more. For those that long to have their very own custom fireplace mantel, The Mantel Shoppe can provide you with just that. Each mantel is made from the finest craftsmanship and high quality design configuration. Stock mantels simply do not work for many homes and it is very important to have one that fits your fireplace correctly. Each fireplace mantel is made with the customer's exact specifications in mind to deliver them with one of the finest fireplace mantels in the world.
- Chateau Collection Mantels
From classic fireplace mantels to chateau and mission mantels, The Mantel Shoppe has it all. The chateau collection is ideal for those that are looking for a more Victorian and luxurious feel. While this type of fireplace mantel may not look right in every home, it is ideal for larger, more spacious houses that long for a magnificent fireplace mantel. The St. Francisville Mantel is one of the most popular and affordable options from the chateau collection. This French-style mantel can be created out of any species of wood to meet your personal preferences. This is an eye-catching piece for any sitting room. If looking for a very unique look, the The Newport Mantel is the perfect option. This mantel is one of the only two that feature a half octagon leg shape. This mantel adds a homely feeling to any room and can be made in colors such as walnut, pine and mahogany.
- Classic Fireplace Mantels
A classic fireplace mantel is a timeless piece that has been with The Mantel Shoppe since the very beginning. This original line of mantels was very popular back in the day and has only increased in popularity today. Many of these mantels are the ideal solution for any home's fireplace wants and desires. If you can picture your family sitting around the fireplace and cherishing the memories of photographs that rest on top of the mantel, then these are the best choices for you. The The Bradford Mantel is one of the original designs created by the shop. While the upper plinth blocks create the look of a larger mantel, it is actually not too large and offers a very affordable price point.
No matter what type of mantel you decide to add to your fireplace, shelving can be added above for a unique look and extra space to store your precious memories. Double mantels can serve this purpose as well. Place photographs on the shelves, hang your holiday stockings here, show off antiques and so much more. |
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What is the best height for a fireplace mantel? |
June 8, 2012
Designing a home can be difficult. While there are any number of choices you can make about your fixtures, you're looking for that perfect feel, and you'd rather not settle for less. When it comes to fireplaces, which traditionally serve as comfy gathering centers, homeowners prefer ultimate comfort. How high should your fireplace mantel be? The answer is not as obvious as you might think. Although the majority of mantels fall within the 48" to 64" range, you shouldn't let yourself be limited by tradition. Your mantel, like the other fixtures in your home, ought to be optimized for your comfort and yours alone. Mantels serve as resting places for casual knickknacks and and holiday stockings, but their origins are actually more functional. Because families used to spend long wintry hours huddled around the fireplace, mantels served as ready shelves for beverages, food, books and the day-to-day items families used most. Even during other seasons, mantels were used regularly because they provided easy access to open space for flowerpots and other decorative items. Your modern family may not be as tied to the fireplace, but you can get a lot of mileage out of your mantel anyway. Think about what you'd like to use it for and then plan the height accordingly. Some common usage suggestions include:
- Accessories for flat mount televisions.
- Photos, family urns and other decorative valuables.
- Incense, potpourri and other fragrant items.
- Self-serving stations for parties during warmer seasons.
Pick a convenient mantel height that matches all your planned usage needs. Now let's talk about safety. If you have small children, you might want to encourage them to keep them away from the dangerous fireplace. A high mantel that they really have no hope of reaching helps you define this as an adults-only kind of area. Also consider the fact that your furniture will affect your mantel's visibility. You might want to add some height if your fireplace room is already full of tall items and fixtures. When are shorter mantels appropriate? Again, remember that you can really choose anything you think fits in with your room, but it's nice when your mantel matches the fireplace below. If you have a wood stove or other low burner, a shorter mantle might just be the decorative element you need to tie the whole look together. |
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The ease of the mantel installation is hard to imagine but true. |
June 5, 2012
Barbara, a 52 year old nurse from Salisbury Mills, NY, wanted to renovate her fireplace. The original fireplace was brick surrounded by dingy dark wood, not a strong enough contrast to highlight the red brick. It also clashed with her creamy yellow walls. There was no room for other decoration that might help focus attention on the fireplace.
So we built her an Augusta Mantel and painted it semi-gloss white. Without any previous experience or skills with fireplace mantel installation, Barbara was worried about the difficulty of such a big DIY project. But with the included videos, she was able to easily follow instructions to rip out her old wood mantle and put in the new one. It even took her less than 2 hours – a short and simple time investment for such an effective result.
What a difference! The new white mantle has a beautiful color contrast with the yellow wall, the wood floor, and the red brick. The white makes the fireplace look bigger and draws your eye to it upon entering the room. Since the new white mantle has a shelf-like top, Barbara was able to put a clock and other decorative pieces on top of the mantle, adding to its beauty. The clean geometric lines of the mantle are simple and elegant, and give a nice touch of modernity to balance the old-fashioned style of the brick fireplace.
Barbara was so happy that she sent in her testimonial and pictures to show how easy it was and what a difference it made in the room! She went out of her way to recommend the Mantel Shoppe to other customers and tell them how easy the project was and how stunning the results were! Take a look at the timestamps on the pictures. She started after 2:00 and was done by 5! Barbara was so inspired she even added a new screen and fireplace tools to bring even more attention to her brand new fireplace. This is definitely the first thing guests will notice when they walk into Barbara's living room.
You could update your fireplace, and give a new look to a whole room too! You don’t need any experience or special tools. If a 52 year old nurse with no experience could do it, so can you! If you have a depressing, dirty, outdated mantle and are looking to spruce up your fireplace area, order a mantle from us and see how easy it is to get a whole new room in less than a day’s work! It might even inspire you to take on a bigger job - maybe painting or new furniture. A fireplace makes a home cozy, adds a touch of old-fashioned charm, and increases your home's value. Not many home repair projects will take this little time and give you such pleasing results. Barbara is just one of our customers who went out of their way to recommend us to future clients. Please get in touch - we're waiting to help make your dream fireplace a reality!
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Decorating the fireplace mantel for Summer |
May 23, 2012
As summer approaches, decor changes from the colors of winter and spring into light, bright and cheerful choices. While fireplace mantels are natural backdrops for the holidays, they do not have to see neglect when warmer temperatures arrive. In fact, they can become the perfect spot for themed displays or a special place to highlight past vacations with photo groupings.
As colorful blooms burst forth, cut flowers can take center stage in arrangements of any kind. Although they may last only a few days, they are natural accent pieces that are also easy to arrange. Use complementing containers in a variety of heights for added visual appeal. Clear glass goblets, fish bowls and other containers can hold found items including sea shells and even colored sand added in layers. For the Fourth of July, the mantel can turn into a red, white and blue explosion of patriotic colors. Raid the children’s department for sailboats, small beach balls and nautical gear to carry a getaway theme well into August. Mobiles with butterflies and other summertime creatures can come down from ceilings as whimsical displays.
For a shabby chic effect, mix larger framed mirrors with vintage seascapes and let them lean instead of arranging on a wall above the mantel. Layer them so they weave in an out for added dimension. Small and large art pieces add an eclectic look and can be stored away easily for winter.
Mantel shelves are not the only place for displays. Bring summer colors to the hearth base and add taller arrangements to camouflage the unused firebox. Place bamboo cane in buckets of sand for a casual look or temporarily plant leafy branches in vases for a greener look. Larger wrought iron candelabras for pillars or votives are elegant accessories. Hurricane lamps can come indoors as ambient lighting for evenings. When gatherings move outside, they are ready to light up patios, too. Let them mingle on the upper shelf or as an accent for the surround.
As a ready-made centerpiece, the mantel makes seasonal decorating so easy. A quick change and the mood is set for any time of year. Let summer shine with its own colorful arrangements and displays that everyone will admire. |
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Beautiful Ways to Decorate Your Fireplace Mantel for Christmas |
December 1, 2011
A well-decorated home can bring joy to almost anyone during the holidays. A Christmas tree is generally central to a holiday decor scheme, but don't forget the many other decorating opportunities that exist. Create a comfortable atmosphere by scattering decor throughout the home. The fireplace mantel in particular provides an excellent setting for holiday decorations.
Many families gather around the fireplace to enjoy quality time together during the holidays. There is no better way to accent this area than by drawing focus to the fireplace. Building a beautiful fire is only the first step to creating ambience in this important area. Draw inspiration from the following ideas when decorating fireplace mantel Christmas holidays. Remember to keep all decorations clear of flames.
Stick with Traditional Style
Individuals who prefer a traditional fireplace mantel can stick with a green, red and gold decor scheme. Use wired ribbon to make big bows at both ends of the mantel. String green-and-red plaid ribbon along the mantel, adding sprigs of holly as an accent. Santa Claus figurines and statues are also a great choice for a traditional mantel.
To add a touch of class to the traditional mantel, try using a beaded garland in a pretty metallic shade, such as gold or bronze. Beaded garlands work well as a complement to heavier ribbon and even to fresh evergreen boughs. The trick to creating a traditional mantel is staying focused on simplicity and unity.
Create A City Scape
A fireplace mantel is the perfect location for a Christmas village or city scape. Many retailers sell porcelain villages, cottages and churches that are perfect for the mantel. Remember to buy pieces from the same decor line or with a similar look to maintain the integrity of the fireplace mantel. You may wish to use small figurines of snowmen, pets and people to add an extra touch of comfort to such decor schemes.
It's important to set the scene for a city scape or Christmas village. Use sparkling white flocking to create the illusion of houses adrift in snow. Crinkle-cut paper can also be used to nest cottages and churches on the fireplace mantel. Miniature street lamps add a perfect finishing touch to any fireplace mantel.
A beautiful city scape can also be created out of simple cardboard panels. Cut a skyline out of cardboard or other sturdy paper and anchor it to the mantel with tape. Place a strip of lighting behind the cutout city scape for an extra touch of magic. Cardboard skylines are particularly striking when painted black.
Tell The Nativity Story
Many families enjoy displaying a nativity scene at Christmastime. There is no better place to put a nativity than on the fireplace mantel. A nativity set looks great when ensconced in crinkle-cut brown paper bags or imitation moss. Don't forget to hang the Star of Bethlehem above the fireplace mantel.
In general, it's best to place the baby Jesus and his parents at the center of a fireplace nativity scene. Place shepherds and their animals on one side of the mantel and the Three Wise Men and their camels on the other side of the mantel. This allows for a balanced look.
Get Your Mantel Glowing
There's nothing better than a fireplace mantel alight with tiny bulbs or candles. Hang Christmas lights evenly across the mantel and down the sides of the fireplace, being careful to keep electrical wires away from the flames. Place wax candles in simple, beautiful crystal or glass candleholders to add an elegant accent to the mantel. Individuals who prefer to avoid the mess of dripping wax should use battery-powered candles.
Brighten Up with Flowers and Boughs
Evergreen boughs are a classic choice when decorating fireplace mantel Christmas holidays. Most florists and Christmas tree lots sell boughs. To make evergreen boughs extra-festive, wrap them in brightly colored ribbons or in Christmas lights. Remember to use caution when wrapping boughs in lights, as they can become a fire hazard if left unattended.
Many individuals also enjoy festooning a fireplace mantel in Poinsettias and other winter flowers. Poinsettias generally do best when potted, so use silk flowers for the fireplace mantel. Many florists also sell a variety of hardy flowers in holiday colors that are perfect for the mantel.
Display Collectibles and Keepsakes
Many families pass down cherished statuettes and Christmas collectibles. The fireplace mantel is a perfect place to display these precious items, as it is out of the reach of small children and pets. When displaying collectibles, it is best to stick with a simple decor scheme.
Accent collectibles with small, white Christmas lights. If a collection has a general color scheme, intertwine pretty ribbons or garland between pieces. Remember to place fragile collectibles on doilies or pads to prevent chipping. For an extra touch of elegance, set collectibles on small mirrors.
Gift Wrap, Garland and Ribbon
Creating a contemporary fireplace mantel is easy when using gift wrap. Simply secure gift wrap around the mantel and sides of the fireplace. Add ribbon to mimic the look of a Christmas present for a quick, simple decorating solution. This is an ideal approach for individuals who use a large mirror or painting above the mantel and don't want to detract from the visual appeal of such a piece.
Garland and ribbon can also be wrapped around a fireplace mantel for an easy, classic look. Buy pre-made bows or make big bows to scatter around the mantel. Keep in mind that it is best to use an odd number of bows or decor pieces on the mantel.
Remember that decorating a fireplace mantel for Christmas is all about being creative. Experiment with a variety of materials and decor items to create a truly unique fireplace look. It's easy to find inspiration for mantel decor by browsing stores at Christmastime. Pay attention to how shelving in specialty shops is decorated. You can use many of the same techniques when decorating at home. |
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Fireplace Mantels Can Be Simple and Elegant |
November 2, 2011
The hearth is a centerpiece of any room, which makes selecting the right surround even more important. Mantels can be objects of great beauty while retaining simple and elegant profiles to complement any decor. With selections that range from traditional designs in rich wood finishes to designer choices in cast stone, the decision-making process is easy.
Colors, materials and shapes all play into selection of a mantel. In some cases, a mantel shelf is all that is needed to create a finished look. Full surrounds with decorative columns do not have to be ornate to make an impact. Reeded accents, for instance, maintain a formality without going to extremes in styling. Top moldings can be stepped, beveled or rounded as a complement, too. For a little drama, facings with separated shelves are impressive in their own right.
Updating or starting from scratch each has its challenges. Take into account the style of the room itself, along with furniture choices and colors. Mantels in a variety of wood choices are easily finished or painted to match a room’s personality and overall tone. Expanding to the sides with wood shelving is a practical space-saving arrangement that can turn a fireplace into an attractive display sectional or an entertainment system. Keeping stain or paint choices in line with other trim will add flow while retaining simplicity.
Arts and Crafts designs are a tribute to the finest workmanship while keeping details to a minimum. This style can help define Americana, cottage and coastal decor while exuding the nostalgia of a very popular early design movement. Unobtrusive adornments can include dentil molding and raised medallions that blend in with a matching finish. Art Deco is another favorite style that takes geometrics into bolder territory. While retaining an air of distinction, it pleases the tastes of those who still wish to maintain a refined look.
Cast stone with texturing and hues is a lightweight alternative that beautifully mimics its genuine counterparts. Among the classic style choices, look for graceful shaping that softens modular components. Smoothed edging and a matching hearth base are always stunning in their simplicity. These are wonderful choices for decorating around gas or wood-burning fireplaces.
Mantels with simpler designs are also more versatile. As a room’s theme or color scheme changes, they can adapt more easily. With less ornamentation, they will still retain their elegant lines while conforming to the changing character of any space.
These styles have become increasingly popular and can be found in our Mission Collection. |
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Good Fireplace Measurements=Pretty Mantel Results |
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Denise (The Mantel Shoppe Customer): "I am most interested in the Montevallo mantle. I have attached a photo of my current fireplace, which, as you can see is set on a raised hearth. I like the style of the Montevallo mantle, but want it to have some depth off the wall, so it looks a bit deeper off the paneling than I think this style mantle is. I also want a deeper mantel shelf of 7.5" , and 72" length. Currently, my shelf is 63" long with a 5.5" depth. Can you tell me the current dimensions of your mantle surround? I have indicated my dimensions on the photo, as this may help. Thanks!"
The Mantel Shoppe: Our standard shelf for the Montevallo is 10 1/2 inches so that is a good bit deeper than what you're used to. Your measurements are great and we can build a Montevallo mantel to fit your fireplace very easily. I'll draw up the dimensions I recommend and see what you think.
A: Inside Width: 56" B: Inside Height: 37" C: Outside Leg Width: 68" D: Breast Height: 14 3/4" E: Overall Height: 51 3/4" F: Overall Shelf Width: 74 1/2" Shelf Depth: 10 1/2" G: Leg Width: 6" Thanks for the inquiry and let me know if you have any more questions.
Denise: "Thanks! Yes, that depth on the shelf is much too deep, and I really look forward to your suggested dimensions. Interested in buying rather quickly, so the sooner I see the drawing, the better for both of us! Have a good day." -Denise
The Mantel Shoppe: Our shelf actually is 10 1/2" deep. Can you give me a call so I can explain how the depth works out? The depth is measured from the wall to the front of the shelf. It is deeper because the depth of the brick requires a deeper shelf than a granite or tile profile because the legs have to wrap around the brick and the crown moulding. We have a very quick turnaround so I hope I can help you out with the mantel. I'll talk to you soon.
Denise: "Our hearth is already 19" high above the floor, so that is where the surround would start.. Max height I can go from the hearth to the shelf is 45" without it looking ridiculous as it would be so high I could not reach the shelf."
The Mantel Shoppe:
A: 54" B: 35" C: 66" D: 10" E: 45" F: 72" Shelf Depth: 8" G: 6" Let me know if something needs to be changed.
Denise: "Hi, thanks SO much for working with me on this. These are much better. Question...to be able to maintain having the breast panel, can the TOTAL height of "E" be brought down to 43" without ruining the whole look of the breast panel and the symetry of the whole surround?"
The Mantel Shoppe: Acutally, 45 is really pushing the center panel box together and 43 would eliminate it.
Denise: "If we bring the legs down another 2", which would keep the current breast panel the same, it would recue the exposed brick above our glass doors down 2"...and the final interior measure would be 54 high x 34 wide. Would that work?"
The Mantel Shoppe: We can as long as you don't think the mantel will get too hot.
Denise: "We have closed glass doors around our firebox, so not much heat gets out, even when doors are open. But, I am checking the official city code here, to make sure of minimum distance it must be from firebox. Will get back to you as soon as I can. Okay! We are set to go with the fire marshal. You can bring the legs down 2" so that the final inside measurements will be 54" wide by 34" high, the height of the entire surround from bottom to top will be 43", the length of the shelf will be 72, and its width 8. Thanks! Attached are photos of our installed mantle. It looks gorgeous. Everyone who saw it at my party was so impressed by the craftsmanship and how pretty it looked. You and your company provided such a quality, intricate piece of woodworking. Your customer service was outstanding, and working with you to get just the right measurements was effortless and I enjoyed the whole process. Your price for this wonderful mantle was so reasonable. I will be recommending your company to every personal I know. P.S. You can use my recommendation, if you like. Thanks a million! Cordially," Denise
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30 Minute Fireplace Renovation in 2:30 Minutes |
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