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

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

As for fireplace mantel materials for fireplace mantel design, mahogany has always been a popular choice, as well as walnut and elm. Indeed, the materials used for fireplace 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 fireplace.