We talked with mantels expert, Lori Harlan, to pick her brain about what’s trending, things customers overlook, and what she recommends to help you find the perfect mantel. Here’s what she told us.
4 Questions to Ask Yourself before Getting Started
Lori talks to customers all day every day. She is an expert at asking the questions that help her pair each individual customer with their ideal mantel. You can ask yourself these same questions to get started on your project.
1. What restrictions are you working with?
You might at first think that the sky is the limit, but take a step back and look at your room with fresh eyes. Are there windows near the fireplace that might restrict your dimensions? Do you want to place a TV above the mantel (this will restrict how tall your mantel can be)?
What about the type of fireplace you have? If you have gas or wood burning, you’ll need to be aware of clearances and other regulations on where mantels can be placed or what type of materials can be used.
Expert Tip:
“Use blue painter’s tape to mark off the dimensions where you want to put the mantel. This lets you see what it’s going to be like. Sit with it in your space for a few days to make sure that’s the mantel size you want,” says Lori.
2. What kind of firebox do you have?
The firebox is the box that houses where the actual fire will be. They can be metal, masonry, or electric. Each comes with specific criteria you’ll need to be aware of before selecting a mantel.
For instance, the firebox might transfer more heat to surrounding things if the firebox is metal. That means that your mantel might need to be placed further away than if the firebox was another material.
It is also important to know the fire codes for your state, county, and city to ensure you are building a fireplace and mantel that will be safe and pose the least amount of risk possible.
3. What style are you looking for?
Keeping in mind any restrictions, explore the look you want to achieve. There are lots of options: mantel shelf, mantel surrounds, modern, classic, rustic, etc. It’s also important to think about the color scheme in your space and any features that dictate the style (crown molding, architectural features, etc.).
Expert Tip:
“Look at a lot of pictures to visualize the look you want. Build a Pinterest board. Do a Google image search. Find Instagram influencers who have redone their fireplaces. There are lots of places to look for inspiration, but what’s most important is that you do look and have an idea of what you want so you can quickly narrow down your options,” Lori tells us.
4. What about maintenance?
It’s one thing to create the fireplace of your dreams, but can you keep it that way? Some fireplaces, especially wood burning ones can be quite messy and require maintenance to continue looking good.
For instance, smoke and soot can penetrate into stone if not cleaned after each use. This can discolor the mantel over time. Are you ready for that level of care?
Expert Tip:
“Seal natural and cast stone at least once a year—more if you use the fireplace more often. Sealing will deter soot from penetrating the porous stone,” Lori suggests.
What’s Trending
Lori is selling a lot of what she calls “picture frame” mantels, aka, mantels with exactly proportioned legs and top that create a “frame” around the firebox. “It’s a classic look that can embrace just about any style. There’s a picture frame mantel for every situation and space.”
Top-selling Picture Frame Styles
Hazel by Modern Ember
The fluted surface is a hot trend across interior design. Curving legs offer some organic movement for natural style.
Hewitt by Modern Ember
Fluted surface with crisp, straight edges.
Everly by Modern Ember
Beveled design that literally frames the fireplace. Trending white oak in your choice of stained finish.
Melrose by Mantels Direct
Cast stone in a 15 color options, including natural stone grain and vein finishes.
Westport by Mantels Direct
Composite stone mantel with concentric framing. Available in 15 natural stone looks.
Lori’s Personal Pick
Of all the mantels Lori helps her customers select, her personal favorite is the Lancaster by Mantels Direct. Customers looking for something more rustic for their cabin or farmhouse style home turn to this classic look in a variety of natural woods including poplar, pine, maple oak, cherry, and alder.
Want to talk to Lori or one of her colleagues? They are standing by to help you find your perfect mantel.