Is your wood stove looking a little dull? Are you seeking ways to transform it into a stylish focal point in your home? The addition of a beautiful mantel is one of the best ways to give your wood stove an instant facelift.
Mantels not only add visual interest, but they also provide a convenient spot for displaying cherished decor items. With so many mantel design options to choose from, you’re sure to find one that complements your wood stove and matches your home’s style.
Rustic Wood Mantels
For a cozy, farmhouse vibe, a rustic wood mantel is the way to go. Opt for a mantel made of distressed, reclaimed wood planks. The imperfections and natural patina of the reclaimed wood will add loads of character.
When selecting planks, mix up the sizes and directions for visual interest. Use a combination of sanding, staining, and whitewashing techniques to achieve a weathered, timeworn look. Add charming accents like floating shelves, corbels, or trim to take your wood mantel to the next level.
Rustic Wood Mantel Ideas
- Use a combination of thin and thick planks
- Incorporate driftwood or barn wood
- Add floating shelves for display space
- Use corbels for support and decoration
- Whitewash or lightly stain for a worn look
Stone Mantels
For a refined, elegant look, a natural stone mantel is just the ticket. Stone options like marble, limestone, and slate can instantly class up your wood stove area. Choose a stone variety that complements the existing style of the room–for example, dramatic black marble for a glam space or rustic limestone for a Tuscan-style room.
Consider a mantel that mixes stone types, sizes, or colors for extra visual punch. Incorporate metal accents like iron trim or bronze medallions to add crisp lines and further enhance the elegance. Distressing the finish of your stone mantel can also lend an aged, timeworn vibe.
Stone Mantel Ideas
- Mix marble, limestone, and slate
- Add metal accents for contrast
- Choose stone to match room style
- Distress the finish for an aged look
- Incorporate carved details or medallions
Concrete Mantels
If your design aesthetic skews modern and industrial, a concrete mantel is a fabulous option. The moldability of concrete allows for customized designs and unique mantel shapes that you won’t find elsewhere. Go for an ultra-modern floating design or choose a chunky, thick mantel for a bold statement.
Concrete mantels lend themselves particularly well to industrial styles. For an especially striking look, imprint metal patterns or textures directly into the concrete. Pair your concrete mantel with metal legs or shelves for cohesion. The color possibilities are also endless–stick with basic gray or go bold with emerald green or navy blue.
Concrete Mantel Ideas
- Choose a thick, chunky design
- Floating, detachable designs work great
- Imprint metal patterns for texture
- Incorporate metal legs or shelving
- Customize the shape and color
Metal Mantels
For the ultimate modern statement, try a metal mantel above your wood stove. From sleek stainless steel to rustic wrought iron, metal offers endless versatility. Match the metal finish to other accents in the room, like stainless appliances in a kitchen or bronze light fixtures in a living room.
Get creative with combining metals or choose one standout material as the star. Use metal mantels as a base to mount shelves, stacks of firewood, or other industrial design elements. Their clean lines and architectural look make them ideal for contemporary spaces.
Metal Mantel Ideas
- Mix metal finishes for eclectic style
- Incorporate pipe shelves or firewood stacks
- Try matte black iron for dramatic flair
- Use metal corbels or trim as accents
- Choose sleek stainless steel for modern kitchens
Brick Mantels
Brick is another classic mantel option that infuses traditional charm. For inviting, craftsman-style spaces, a brick fireplace mantel can’t be beat. Opt for warm-hued bricks in earthy red, brown, or terra cotta tones. Mix brick sizes from large statement bricks to smaller accent bricks.
Look for reclaimed bricks with chipped edges and visible wear for rustic character. For extra depth, incorporate wood beam accents and floating shelves into the mantel design. Keep the look cohesive by choosing bricks that match or complement the color of your wood stove.
Brick Mantel Ideas
- Choose bricks matching wood stove color
- Mix brick sizes for visual interest
- Incorporate reclaimed bricks with imperfections
- Add wood accents for depth
- Use traditional red or brown brick tones
Decorating Your Mantel
Once you’ve selected the perfect mantel design for your wood stove, it’s time to decorate! Mantels offer ideal display space for treasured items and seasonal accents. For wood stoves, natural elements like framed botanical prints, vases of dried flowers, evergreen boughs, and candles in earthy vessels enhance the cozy, rustic vibe.
Just be sure to maintain proper clearance to combustibles, and choose decor items made from non-flammable materials. Allow ample ventilation around your wood stove to prevent fires. With a style-enhancing mantel and thoughtful finishing touches, your wood stove can become a beautiful centerpiece rather than an eyesore.
With limitless design options from natural woods to sleek metals, the perfect mantel is out there to give your wood stove the makeover it deserves. Choose a mantel design that complements your existing decor and wood stove style. Rustic, modern, traditional–whatever your home’s personality, a beautiful mantel can draw the eye while contributing loads of character.
Dress up your wood stove today with one of these brilliant mantel ideas. Before you know it, your boring old wood stove will be transformed into an enviable focal point you can’t wait to show off.
