Your rustic fireplace mantel will be the focal point of any room. Rustic fireplace mantels are not only functional they also add character and depth transforming your room.

The fireplace has its roots in Roman architecture where fireplaces commonly had elaborate columns, carves figures, and wonderful moldings. The Edwardian era saw things streamlines with much less fluff and much more subtle designs. Modern fireplaces saw a wealth of different styles and designs take shape including the rustic mantle.

And there’s a variety of mantle materials used today including woods such as mahogany, elm, walnut, or oak. But besides wood, metal, plaster, glass, gypsum, rock, and a host of other man made materials are used to build fabulous mantles.

For a rustic look wood and rock are two great choice and metal can look pretty interesting too! Designers have come up with some terrific material mixes as well.

Creating a mantle can be a bit expensive but there are some interesting kits on the market that can save you a fair bit of money. Many of them come complete with ornamental designs and shelves. Ready made models start at around $250 and go up to about $400 for plaster and less costly materials. While stone and wood start around $800 and can make it into the thousand dollar range.

Using a kit means you can eliminate hiring a contractor. Kits can provide you with a durable mantle but they aren’t always that easy to assemble. A mantle adds an entire new look to a room.

You can also shop for discount mantels online. There are many great sites offering substantial savings. Just a little bit of shopping around can really help your pocket book.

If your room has felt a little unfinished, like something is missing, a rustic fireplace is the perfect choice for a country look, cabin, or lodge. It’s warm and inviting and will quickly add that finishing touch.

There are also sites that do custom mantels. You can get creative if you like and use driftwood, redo an antique mantel, or have some creatures like bears or raccoons added to your mantle. Custom doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
If you are considering custom you need to spend some time thinking about what you want your mantle to do or say. It’s an important element to your home décor and it’s also an expensive element so take your time and get it right.

What do you want it to do for the mood? Will it be a focal point? Will it be functional? Gas or wood? Will it be used for heating? What’s the size? Once you answer all these questions you’ll make a better decision about what it is you want.

Rustic is a mood that should be relaxing, inviting, and fun. When you enter your rustic room you should instantly feel a weight lifted off your shoulders and your mantel should be a part of that. Choosing the right colors and styles will help you accomplish this.

Rustic fireplace mantels can be purchased online from several excellent sites so why not start shopping now?

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