It’s true that fireplace mantels do add to a room’s décor.  However, not everyone realizes that they are also a very functional element that can be used for displaying items as well as showing off your style and taste.  In other words, they are not just for hanging stockings during the Christmas.  Fireplace mantels can accent the fireplace, turning it from an empty black hole into the focal point of the room. 

Fireplace mantels range from rustic mantels to some that appear to be inspired by Greek and Roman architecture, accompanied by elaborate columns, pilasters, carved figures, or architectural molding.  

Mahogany, walnut, elm, and oak have all been very popular wood choices for mantels.  However today materials such as concrete, metal, gypsum, plaster, and glass are also being fashioned into beautiful mantels, which offer unique and modern designs to any room.  For a more up scaled and sophisticated design, beautifully carved marble can also being used to create framed surroundings for fireplaces.   

Depending on the material chosen, designing, and creating a fireplace mantel can be extremely expensive.  This is especially true for custom-made models.  However, there are some mantel kits, which are available for the do-it-yourselfer that comes complete with shelves and ornamental designs.   

For relatively inexpensive mantels, which have the look of richly carved wood, you may want to consider a mantel made from fiberboard.  These beautiful mantels range in price from $250-300.  Another option is pre-cast concrete or plaster mantels, which are more expensive, however, are still far more affordable.  Natural stone and wood mantels are the most expensive, with prices starting at approximately $300 and reaching prices of over several thousand dollars. 

You can build a fireplace mantel using one of the many do-it-yourself kits.  However, do not think of these kits as an easy project.  Many of these mantel kits are complicated to assemble, however, most are very durable and detailed.  In addition, with the many different faux paint kits available, fiberboard, pre-cast concrete, and plaster mantels can be painted to resemble marble, gilding, and even leather.  By creating a mantel yourself, you receive the satisfaction of adding beauty of your home that you’ve created.