Antique mantels capture a timeless and sophisticated look that has long been associated with ornate fireplaces in mansions and palaces. An older type home, a colonial perhaps, will also benefit from an antique mantel because it will create an historic presence. Vintage fireplace mantels arent built to mesh with todays fireplaces, so even if you visit an antique or salvage store and purchase one, you will have to make some adjustments to it.

Antique fireplace mantels are functional design elements that add character and depth to a room while displaying your unique taste and style. A fireplace mantel can transform a room. A mantel, whether you choose to have an entire surround or just a shelf mantel could be just what an interior designer ordered for a dull living room.

Inspired by Greek and Roman architecture, mantels made their debut during the Italian Renaissance in Italy. Elaborate columns, pilasters, carved figures and architectural moldings, commonly accompanied fireplaces. By the beginning of the Edwardian era, mantels were streamlined to accommodate more subtle designs. Modern mantel shelves, on the other hand, originated with the use of high-density construction fiberboard.

As for mantel materials, mahogany has always been a popular choice, as well as a walnut and elm. Indeed, the materials used for mantel designs vary greatly, ranging from concrete to wood, metal, gypsum, plaster and glass. For a more sophisticated look, many designers prefer a marble and tile frame surrounding a mantelpiece.

Creating a mantel can be costly, especially when shopping for a custom made model. Some cost savings are available for those interested in constructing from a mantel kit, complete with shelves and ornamental designs.

Most of the time, antique fireplace mantels are bigger than the fireplaces and must be trimmed down. It wont hurt if you copy the dimensions of your fireplaces to take along with you when you are going to the store. You should also choose a design that you can live with and ties in well with your personal taste and style.

Its imperative that before construction, you verify the building and fire codes. Considering the labor and monetary aspects of it, these mantels arent cheap. Experts also say that building an antique fireplace takes the kind of skill only a professional has. Its also important to realize that a fireplace of this caliber can increase the value of your home.

If youre looking to eliminate the contractor and save money, you can build a fireplace mantel using a do-it-yourself kit. They arent always easy to assemble, but can be durable and detailed. You also have the satisfaction of having added to the beauty of your home.

In keeping with the vintage theme, as far as accessorizing your mantel, antique bottles or miniature sculptures are a good way to complete the look. And if after installing your mantel everything looks cluttered, mirrors overhead will create the illusion that the room is huge.