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Most fireplaces today are all about form over function.  We have a great ability to heat or cool our spaces without the need for a fire.  However, there is just something about having a fire that spurs that nostalgic or romantic spark in us all.  Maybe it is related to some type of biological need to engage with our survival needs.  Who knows, but whatever the case, fireplace designs are more popular now than ever.

And, with all the new ideas and possibilities in fireplace surrounds and materials, why not go for something bold.  You can get your surround made of natural stone materials, like slate, limestone or other type of natural rock material.  More contemporary styles favor simply concrete in a polished finish.  More classic style fireplace themes from the bungalow and Arts and Craft style homes would utilize more wood in their surrounds and fireplace mantels.  The key is to simply match your home’s design characteristics with that of your fireplace for best asthetic results.

The traditional fireplace mantel is made of wood and usually is the frame for your fireplace.  It can hold pictures or other type of keepsake items in a type of shrine or display area.  The mantel of more modern design can be quite different than this classic design of measured wooden dimensions.  A contemporary mantel may be more interpretive in nature.

For example, these types of mantels would include things like a metal sculpture of some sort that is hung above the fireplace itself.  It may or may not also reflect some characteristics of the hearth.  Another unique look is using something like a larger piece of driftwood.  This can not only represent a memory or special keepsake but also a nice conversation piece.

When talking about fireplace designs, we also need to consider the types of fireplace tools we see.  There are many different styles of these tools.  Some a strictly functional in nature, others are more artistic and serve little in the way of function.  It all depends upon personal taste.  Since the fireplace is where we tend to gather when days get cold, creating a warm and inviting space is critical.  Think of your fireplace like the kitchen area of your living room or den.  We like to gather around there, so seating and conversation areas should be kept in mind as well.  Nothing would be worse as far as function if your fireplace only had room a few people – unless of course we are talking about a bedroom fireplace.  In that case, by all means make it cozy and intimate.

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Each fireplace mantel could probably tell you many stories.  Imagine all the conversations that must have taken place beneath an old mantel in some classic or historic home.  Think of all the time spent by people huddling and congregating in that great room glowing from the warmth coming out of the fireplace.

Fireplace mantels hold memories.  They often contain the pictures, relics or symbols of a past era or times gone by.  There is something about putting our cherished photos on or above the fireplace for all to appreciate.  It could be clocks, vases, paintings or just a rock or piece of driftwood that brought us a back in time.  No matter the type of fireplace mantel you have, it will make memories of its own in your home as well.

What are you planning on doing for your mantel?  Some people are looking for a more classic dental pattern, while others seek out a more contemporary metal or artistic style.  Mantels can actually be more interpretive as well.  In other words, some fireplace mantels are pieces of driftwood or a collection of art pieces.  In this sense, they may or may not be as functional as a shelf in the traditional sense.

Some mantels are also matched to tie in the fireplace hearth with the upper section.  These can really frame out a fireplace very well and create a seamless appearance.    Hearths can be where the fireplace design comes alive.  If they are of significant dimension and substance, they become a great place to store both the wood and your tools.  Some hearths are great for this.

Your fireplace tools are one of those personal taste things.  The types of tools you choose can be an expression of your home’s character or simply how you plan on using your fireplace.  These have become something of an essential tool in a home where the fireplace serves as a central heater.   There are hand-forged tools made of traditional metals like iron.  While you can certainly get a cheap set of tools that will work as far as adding wood to a fire or just poking the logs around, a quality set of tools are something that can be appreciated.  Just like with other home accessories, your fireplace can be an expression of your personality and can serve as a source of pride.  Fireplace mantels serve as a great framework that can highlight this every popular gathering place.

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