The fireplace mantel is simply a shelf above the fireplace.
Although it is labeled as just a shelf, it is so much more.
The fireplace is the focal point of any room.
It defines the style of the room.
 With the fireplace being the focal point of the room, the mantel is obviously also is a very important part of the room.
The type of mantel helps define the style of the room.
The mantel can be made of a simple shelf or have intricate details making it a beautiful piece of art.
The simple shelf is often just a board with braces.
It can be painted white or stained and varnished to match the trim of the house.
For a more elegant, refined look, dental crown molding may be used.
This mantel may also be painted or stained.
The homeowner may decide to forego the common shelf mantel and choose the more majestic look of a freestanding mantel.
This mantel would probably be found in a traditional style home with a classic décor.
This mantel is commonly made of the dental crown molding and often painted white.
For the homeowners seeking a less traditional style, they may decide to choose the shelf style mantel.
If saving money is a priority in the construction of the mantel, using recycled wood would be a good choice.
Wood from an old barn would be an excellent choice for a home with the country look.
Another option would be using a tree trunk.
This would be a good choice for a log cabin home.
Either of these options would be great for a unique authentic look and even better, you would be "going green" by recycling.
Plus you would be saving money! When designing a mantel for a modern or contemporary fireplace, the options are endless.
There are many different choices for color and materials.
The modern mantel may be the shelf or freestanding type.
Materials may include granite, stainless steel, copper or glass stones.
These materials have their own color and range from the natural colors to bold blue, green or orange.
Since the fireplace is the focal point of the room, it defines the room.
It helps establish the style of the room.
The mantel is an extremely important part of the fireplace and the materials it is made from will help determine the style of the room.
When deciding how to decorate a room, start with the fireplace and mantel.