[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_3623.jpg” alt=”timber mantel joinery” title_text=”IMG_3623″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
This mantel surface is not placed up against a wall surface but instead has posts leading up to the ceiling\u00a0from it.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Chilton-0068.jpg” alt=”master bedroom timber beams posts log cabin” title_text=”Chilton-0068″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In this gorgeous master bedroom, the mantel breaks up the space between fireplace and tv, setting the stage for candles.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/MG_5125.jpg” alt=”timber frame mantel on stone” title_text=”_MG_5125″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The top piece is a straightforward beam while the supporting corbels have an attractive slope to them that gives this mantel a “classic” feel.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Schawler-038.jpg” alt=”coastal log nautical mantel on stone” title_text=”Schawler-038″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n By utilizing logs for the construction of this nautical feeling mantel, it falls squarely into the “coastal” category.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/ATF-Kletzok-42.jpg” alt=”timber frame great room ” title_text=”ATF-Kletzok-42″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Timber sizing is designed to fit with the proportions of the trusses above. Any smaller and it would feel “weak”.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Mantels began to surface with European royalty as early as 500 AD. They became a place for art and self-expression. Some of these mantels were extravagantly ornate. Many would span whole walls and even had sculptures carved into them. Around the turn of the 17th century the stylings changed from English influence to Italian. This marked the end of the lavish mantel appearance. Simple mantels were now more common as the world became more and more sensible in its style and design. Since then, styles have fluctuated, sometimes using sculptured corbels, sometimes extremely basic. The mantel has now evolved into the basic styles we see today.<\/p>\n \u201cMantels in the past, have been used primarily to display the family portrait.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n What does a mantel symbolize?<\/strong> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” max_width=”80%” module_alignment=”center” use_custom_width=”on” width_unit=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/timbermantel-1.jpg” show_bottom_space=”off” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This Douglas Fir mantel has been burnt and then brushed to provide a striking finish with a defined grain pattern.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n What does a mantel mean to you?<\/strong> Let me give you some examples of mantel styles and how the decision process has unfolded for other successful clients. This will give you an idea of how many layouts are available and which elements you can use to personalize your mantel:<\/p>\n – Pragmatic<\/strong> Matching your mantel to the surroundings ensures a cohesive look throughout the home.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/41.png” show_bottom_space=”off” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ animation_direction=”left” use_border_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”] The Pragmatic Style is a simple, straightforward mantel to display family heirlooms. View the photo at the top of the page for an excellent example of a well-placed pragmatic mantel.\u00a0 For those who want a simple, straightforward design, the decision process will include the following questions:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n 1) What width is needed to place items upon the mantel?<\/strong> [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n For the pragmatic type, a mantel is just simply a mantel. They will think about embellishments only if it will serve a practical purpose, such as rounding or easing sharp edges, Corbels will be considered only if they are needed for support and the style question is simplified to \u201cWhat dimensions will feel right for the fireplace and the room?\u201d<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/42.png” show_bottom_space=”off” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ animation_direction=”left” use_border_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”] Two defining factors of the Western Lodge style are: The size of the mantel and the simplicity of construction. If metal is used, it will be simple, rough and potentially rusted.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A horseshoe or two may be mounted on the face of the mantel for flair. Sometimes a western theme will be cut into the fire grate doors, such as a howling wolf or the silhouette of a forest and mountain. The fireplace itself is usually laid in stone, as a brick or small stone fireplace simply would not fit the Lodge style. All of this reinforces the need for holistic design and how we must balance it with the big picture.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Imagine a sprawling western ranch with a full timber frame home. If we entered into the great room, how high should the ceiling be? For this style, an eight to nine foot ceiling would add to the markedly western feel. A heavy stone fireplace with a low, wide firebox, no hearth and a long mantel set at eye level would be the basic parameters for this style. Now you\u2019ll decide on wood versus stone corbels, metal connectors or embellishments, exact sizes, profiles, etc.<\/p>\n A Mountain Lodge style mantel, while similar in regard to Western style and size, may be different in a few ways. The factors which will affect your mantel style the most will be ceiling height, style (vaulted or sloped ceiling) and if you want a loft area. With the added height and space, an elevated hearth and higher mantel fit well. Perhaps multiple mantels stepping up the chimney would be an excellent showcase for various pictures, wild game mounts and other trophies. A freestanding fireplace may need a four-sided mantel, which creates a warm, inviting place to come together and nestle next to the heat.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It is hard to imagine a European style mantel without conjuring up a picture of old castles, noble knights, royalty, etc. Like the Western Lodge style, the European style relies upon wood and stone for the starting canvas.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/43.png” show_bottom_space=”off” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ animation_direction=”left” use_border_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”] Elegance is added in timber sizing, embellishments, and arches. A European style mantel could have complex joinery, ornate metal craft, and perhaps even a relief carving on the mantel\u2019s face. Unlike the Western Lodge mantel, finesse is required to achieve the European design.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Here at Arrow Timber Framing, the most common European mantel we have produced has utilized curved corbels and a hand-hewn texture. This style also goes well with an Italian\/Mediterranean atmosphere. Italian\/Mediterranean styling incorporates a lot of stucco (both inside and outside) and exposed timbers on the ceiling. Knowing a skilled blacksmith definitely will be an asset for you to truly capture the old European style of mantel. He can give you square-head nails, hand-hammered straps, forged lantern hooks, and anything else you may need to accomplish the authentic look.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Sleek lines, uncluttered, atypical combinations, and open design can all be attributed to this Contemporary style. Visual surprise is the \u201cAce in the Hole\u201d of contemporary design. With that in mind, an open fire pit with a large hanging hood in lieu of a mantel will add the most value to your atmosphere.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/44.png” show_bottom_space=”off” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ animation_direction=”left” use_border_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”] Inlaid silver or gold artwork will add a touch of class and make people smile. A plank of reclaimed wood supported by tension guy wires could fit well with the fireplace materials you intend to use. I do caution against trying to be original or do something new driven solely by the desire to be different. Change for the sake of change may not be beneficial. Above all, you want your choices to be a reflection of you.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Manteltimbers.jpg” show_bottom_space=”off” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This mantel flairs up on either side with an elegant curve that gives mild “flag” vibes while keeping with the reserved, darkened tones of the rest of the timbers.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The take-away for you today is that your choices of design are wide open. Even with something as simple as a mantel, you get to have fun getting what you want. To really expand your enjoyment and self-expression, let\u2019s get started on your timber frame project today!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]Here\u2019s to your next action steps!,<\/p>\n Bert Sarkkinen<\/p>\n \u00a0 Building Your Single-Story Timber Frame Dream Home<\/a><\/p>\n Post & Beam Timbers | Drying, Species & Shrinkage<\/a><\/p>\n 7 Reasons You Should Build Green<\/a><\/p>\n Are Exposed Beams Directly Linked to Stability?<\/a><\/p>\n How to Artistically Mix Logs and Timbers<\/a><\/p>\n How to Avoid a Structural 98lb Weakling<\/a><\/p>\n Insulation Values Myth: The \u201cR\u201d Fairy Tale<\/a><\/p>\n Full Timber Frame, Hybrid Timbers or Small Accents?<\/a><\/p>\n I Want It Big! The Veach Home Project<\/a><\/p>\n Insulation Trends<\/a><\/p>\n Downsizing with Timbers<\/a><\/p>\n Stock vs. Custom House Plans<\/a><\/p>\n The Arrow Timber Philosophy<\/a><\/p>\n A Brief History and Evolution of Timber Framing<\/a><\/p>\n 4 Custom Home Classifications<\/a><\/p>\n Timber Framing a 10K Sq. Ft. House<\/a><\/p>\n 3 Unique Approaches to Timber Floor Plans<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.1″ text_font=”|600|||||||” text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.8em” text_orientation=”right” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n 8 Timber Mantels – Inspiration Is Easier Than You Think!<\/a><\/p>\n Outdoor Living Pavilions <\/a><\/p>\n Stable Geometric Shapes<\/a><\/p>\n The Sherertz Family Project with GRO Outdoor Living<\/a><\/p>\n The Timberline Lodge Story<\/a><\/p>\n Timber Framing in Europe<\/a><\/p>\n Trial by Fire: The Birth of ATF<\/a><\/p>\n Tips and Ideas to Make Timber Maintenance Fun<\/a><\/p>\n What Type of Beam Finish is Best for You?<\/a><\/p>\n Where To Draw the Line For Timber Decor in Your Home<\/a><\/p>\n Timber Framing: Why it’s a ‘Green’ Technique<\/a><\/p>\n What It’s Like Owning a Giant Sawmill<\/a><\/p>\n A Rallying Cry for Your Style<\/a><\/p>\n Videos: A Timber Frame Lakehouse<\/a><\/p>\n Video: Couple Decides on Timber Framing<\/a><\/p>\n
A mantel symbolizes what is close to your heart. Fire and warmth are closely linked with survival. A fire in the kitchen is used for cooking and preparing food, which is necessary for survival, and a fire in the living room means safety and leisure. For me, this means family time, relaxation at the end of the day, and a late-night place for concentration and learning. As far as design goes, I love it when pragmatic solutions are combined with artistic creativity. I prefer having practical criteria to work with, a dilemma to solve and then using artistic creativity.<\/p>\n
Hopefully you will have the answers to your questions upon finishing this article. You may want to pause and visualize your own mantel while you read this article. Keep a pen handy so you can jot down notes when you find inspiration!<\/p>\n
– Western\/Lodge<\/strong>
– Split Log Mantel<\/strong>
– European<\/strong>
– Contemporary<\/strong><\/p>\n
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\nPragmatic Style<\/strong><\/h3>\n
2) What is a desirable mantel height?<\/strong>
3) What are the height and width criteria regarding fire safety?<\/strong>
4) How big should our mantel be?<\/strong><\/p>\n
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\nWestern Lodge Style<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Split Log Mantel<\/strong><\/h3>\n
European Style<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\nContemporary<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/arrowtimber.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/bert-1.png\")
<\/a>
\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ border_color_top=”#ffb549″ border_width_bottom=”6px” border_color_bottom=”#ffb549″ global_module=”9465″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.1″ text_font=”|600|||||||” text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.8em” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n