For places with colder climates fireplace has been traditionally the central highlight of any household. Fireplaces create an atmosphere so fascinating that you desire to take a sit near them feeling the sensation of direct heat, and the riveting leaps and flickers of a wood fire. It is said to be the most ideal place at home where family gathers for conversation even before retiring to sleep especially during winter.

From the traditional use of wood, coal or peat burning fires, it has been innovated to make use of cleaner and safer natural gas fueled and electric fireplaces. Today, fireplaces of varying quality, materials and style are available worldwide. As time went on, the placement of fireplaces moved to the wall, incorporating chimneys to vent the smoke. This permitted the design of a very elaborate, rich, architectural focal point for a grand room.

Mantels or fireplace mantels can be the focus of custom interior decoration. A mantel traditionally offers a unique opportunity for the architect/designer to create a personal statement unique to the room they are creating. Historically the mantel defines the architectural style of the interior decor, whether it be traditional i.e. Classic, Renaissance, Italian, French, American, Victorian, Gothic and others.

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Whatever the style, some details were common to most fireplaces, including certain colors and design elements. Red, blue, and gold were the most typically used colors (when color was used at all). Common design elements include the decorative ribbing known as tracery, heraldic emblems such as coats of arms or mythical beasts (including dragons), and ecclesiastical motifs such as pointed arches or ogee arches. One of the most common design elements is called “cusping”-the addition of a decorative projection or relief carving of heads (of people or animals), gargoyles, or maybe animals or plants. These would commonly be placed either in the middle of the mantel, or on either side of the fireplace, at the top of the jambs. Another common element is a linear design called the “linen-fold” motif, which was often carved onto the mantel or the sides of the jambs.

Whether you choose a simple fireplace or one which is intricately decorated, a fireplace that is in keeping with the décor will definitely add something very special to the ambiance of your home.