How Do I Choose the Best Modern Mantel?

When choosing the best modern mantel, it is essential to remember that the fireplace is often the focal point of a room, or even a house. Typically, this type of design will be very simplistic and free from detail. It is important to look at the design and décor of a room before selecting a modern mantel. In addition, it is important to decide prior to purchasing a modern mantel what purpose it will serve and how function it should be. Choosing one that is the right size for the fireplace also is something that should not be overlooked.

Before selecting a modern mantel, it is important to decide exactly how modern it should be. Some mantels incorporate straight lines and are free from any ornate details, giving them a modern style. Other designs of modern mantels include unique shapes, such as arches, curves, and asymmetrical lines, making them much more modern in appearance. Since some mantels give an ultra-modern feel, while others may simply allude to contemporary design, it is important for the consumer to decide how modern she wants her mantel to be.

It is also important that the mantel fits the décor of the room in which it will be installed. For example, if a room is distinctly traditional, a modern mantel may not look quite right. Occasionally, it is possible to blend styles, but it must be done carefully, and it is important that one style does not overpower another style when blending. In other cases, a room may be very contemporary in décor, giving the consumer the opportunity to select a mantel that is as contemporary as she wishes.

Selecting the right material also can be an important choice when choosing the best modern mantel for a particular room. There are some materials, such as stainless steel, that will typically create a modern feel; yet, some people may not like the stark coldness that a steel mantel brings to a room. Other popular metals that might be used include copper and bronze.

In the alternative, a consumer could choose a wood, glass, or stained concrete mantel. These might lend a warmer feel to a room and may give the consumer a chance to bring in some color. For example, concrete can be stained nearly any color. Glass can also be found in a wide range of colors, giving a drab room a boost.

Before deciding upon a particular modern mantel, a consumer should consider how functional she would like it to be. For example, the mantel could include shelving above, below, and even along the sides of a fireplace. These shelves might be used to place one or two specific items, or they could be filled with photos, mirrors, and other accessories. Depending on the weight and size of the items, some mantels may be better suited for a particular room than others. Consequently, it is also important to measure the height and depth of the shelves and the items to make sure they will fit securely along the mantel.

Typically, the mantel should not dwarf the fireplace. In the alternative, it should not be so small that the fireplace seems to engulf the mantel. In addition, most fireplaces and mantels come in standard sizes, but for a custom fireplace, the mantel should be placed high enough so that it is protected from the fire below.