How To Make a Fireplace Mantel the Focal Point of a Room

A fireplace can be the most attractive feature in a room if it’s done correctly. Without meaningful design, it can sit along your walls as just another meaningless object. Or, it can be the main attraction. The key to achieving this is having a set plan and options to choose from. The rest comes together on its own. For more insight on how to make a fireplace mantel the focal point of a room, keep reading below.

Create a Plan

To make your fireplace mantel the main attraction of a room, you will need to start with a plan. To do this, begin by considering how much time and attention you have to give. It’s also helpful to have an idea of what kind of tools you want to use and what kind of labor you will do or have someone do for you. Having this in mind will only help you in bringing your exact vision to life.

For example, if you’d like to give the wall behind your mantel a fresh coat of paint, you’re going to need things such as paintbrushes and protective coverings. Or if you want to give your fireplace a whole new look you might consider using tile, and thus you’ll need things such as mixing paddles and adhesive mortar.

Having a plan ahead of time will help you every step of the way. With careful thought and consideration, you’ll be able to create an appreciable aesthetic that makes your fireplace mantel the focal point of the room.

Use Paint

Painting is a simple and effective way to switch up the appearance of a room. There are a variety of different ways you can use it during your fireplace renovation. For example, if you have a wooden mantel piece that surrounds the entire outer area, you can sand this down to paint it a new and exciting color. Or if you want to preserve the look of the wood, you can sand it down and give it a new finish.

Another option could be to paint the single wall behind your fireplace. Rather than giving the entire room a new coat of paint, focus on this particular wall. It will bring the right attention to the area.

There are so many creative ways to use paint when you’re renovating your fireplace mantel. Don’t be afraid to use it in different and creative ways.

Use Tile and Stone

Whether you choose to use paint or not, tile and stone are great for complimenting your fireplace. Tile and stone can help you replace those old vintage red bricks with something bright and modern. For tile, using different colors and patterns can help you create a colorful and artistic look. If you’re using stone, consider using a soft stone such as marble. This can draw attention to your fireplace by creating a luxurious feel in the room.

Add a Floating Shelf

If your current fireplace mantel doesn’t already have a floating mantel piece hanging above, you’re going to want to add one. They are necessary for creating a focal point in the room. This is because floating shelves, or mantels, make it easier to decorate. They’re great for displaying picture frames or artwork. They’re also a great location to add a touch of flowers, whether they are fake or natural.

A floating mantel shelf is an addition that is worth it. Here at Right On Brackets, our fireplace mantel brackets can be drilled directly into your home’s wall studs. Their solid steel will provide support to your mantel that will last a lifetime.

Be Intentional With Your Decorations

As we previously mentioned, a floating mantel can be used as an appropriate setting for a variety of different decorations. However, this doesn’t mean you want to add just about anything to the walls behind and around your fireplace. You want to be intentional with what you choose to decorate with. Below are a few examples of what you can use to bring the room’s attention to your fireplace mantel.

Mirrors

If you have no intention of mounting a television above your fireplace, the wall can be a great location for a decorative mirror. You can go with a traditional shape, such as a large oval or square-shaped mirror. Or, you can create an artsy appearance by using irregularly shaped mirrors which can also give the room a touch of modern appeal.

Flowers

As we briefly mentioned, flowers are a great touch to floating mantels. Whether you’re using natural or fake flowers, they can be used to decorate in a variety of ways. For example, you can use tall flower vases for a touch of elegance. Or you can use flowerpots to hang natural flowers. Silver satin pothos are a great option because they’re great for indoor settings and grow slowly over time.

Paintings and Artwork

If you’d like to use your fireplace mantel as a hub for paintings and artwork, be specific about it. You don’t want to showcase too much, because your fireplace may begin to look cramped. Instead, figure out an artistic theme you want to stick with. This will allow you to choose pieces that create one unique look rather than an assortment of different views.

Wallpaper Is Still Great

Although wallpaper used to be mocked as a thing of the past, recent trends have made it popular once again. This is because it has been used in alternative ways. For example, wallpaper can be placed on one individual wall rather all four. This tactic can be applied to your fireplace by applying wallpaper only to the wall it currently sits on. Instead of using paint, pick a wallpaper design that will truly compliment your space. This will enhance your mantel’s appearance and make it the focal point of the room.

Use the Entire Room

The suggestions we have mentioned so far relate to what can be done on and around your fireplace, but you can actually use your entire room. By being specific about the furniture, colors, and patterns you use, you can create a layout that draws attention to your fireplace. The whole room will be coming together in the end, and you want to be specific about how you accomplish it.

Use Fire Screens

Fire screens are a great way to add a finishing touch to your mantel. They typically come in a variety of dark shades and artistic styles. You’ll be able to find one that fits your room perfectly. Aside from décor, fire screens are also helpful in keeping fire sparks contained. This will help you reduce the chances of a fire and keep your home safe.

Now that you know how to make a fireplace mantel the focal point of a room, you can begin designing your project. And don’t forget to add the most important feature to the whole process—your hanging mantel piece. Here at Right On Bracket, we can assist you every step of the way. Give us a call when you’re ready to bring your vision to life.