Finding My Fireplace Mantel Design Style

I’m currently trying to nail down a fireplace mantel design for the new house.  SO many ideas…..so many thoughts……and I’m running out of time!  I feel like it’s important for features like a fireplace to honor the architecture of the house.  But when you’re building something new rather than renovating and paying respect to something old, the options feel almost endless. Endless options are not good for a type 9 personality.  😉  I’d say our exterior definitely feels like a modern take on a classic Charleston style.

Here’s a still unfinished phone snap…..

exterior progress

When it comes to fireplace surrounds, I’ve ruled out any kind of bold patterned tile.  I think colorful, patterned fireplaces are lovely but something like that would look out of place in this house.  I haven’t completely ruled out brick; but we aren’t using brick anywhere on the exterior so it’s not at the top of my list.

My builder suggested something along the lines of this with a reclaimed beam as a mantel.  But modern farmhouse really doesn’t fit my personal design aesthetic.

fireplace mantel design

(Magnolia)

I feel like something a bit more traditional would be a better fit.

fireplace mantel design

(Park and Oak)

fireplace mantel

(White and Gold)

But I also kind of like this modern take that feels very classic in its simplicity.

fireplace mantel design

(Style Me Pretty)

Here’s another phone pic showing progress in the kitchen.  The fireplace is directly across in our open concept space, so I also need to consider that in the design as well.

kitchen progress

What are your thoughts?   What does your dream fireplace and mantel look like?

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  • I really like the one from Park and Oak you showed. It looks similar to the one you currently have and I personally like the mix of wood and brick. It looks like it would tie in nicely with your range hood and the personality of your kitchen. I’m sure whatever you choose will be gorgeous. Our bungalow has an enormous brick fireplace that juts out into our living room on an angle and it used to be painted New England barn red. My husband painted it a creamy white a few years ago and it’s SO much better now!

  • Love the Park & Oak. Ours is similar but without all the molding, etc. above the mantel. We have a corner fireplace and because of a cathedral ceiling in that room, the wall above the mantel angles where it meets the ceiling. So, no fancy wall treatment above the mantel. After 20+ years, I just found the most perfect vintage gold (oval) mirror. It’s gesso and the old glass is perfect

  • I like the last fireplace picture in your post. Straight lines, white, light gray larger subway style tiles. PERFECT! (in my opinion)

  • I love your second inspiration image here with the simpler traditional moulding and cute modern black lamp on the mantle. I feel like that would go well with the clean lines of your shaker style cabinets. Maybe if you want to jazz it up a bit, you can bring the color from the kitchen island on to the fireplace. That could be fun! I like your modern option too, but you seem like such a traditional girl at heart! Maybe you’ll surprise me! Have fun deciding!

  • If I were you, I would take your cues from the vent hood that is across from the fireplace. It is clean lined I think the modern one most reflects that

  • Park and Oak is my favorite too. It goes nicely with your range hood. Everything looks amazing — I’m sure whatever you pick will look great!

  • I like the reclaimed wood mantel best with just all white or a little stone. It’s going to be gorgeous no matter what. So excited for you!

  • I like the Park and Oak one as well. It has just enough detail to reflect the Charleston feel with a clean look that won’t distract from the kitchen.

  • Love the White & Gold; and the Park & Oak is lovely also. What will your countertops be? If marble, then the fp surround in the same material would tie it all in.
    Have you considered something similar to what you’re doing on the outside fp? That is pretty as well. ?

  • Love the Park and Oak style for your home. Seems like a good fit with your kitchen design. It’s going to be stunning!

  • I’m leaning toward the Park & Oak as well, with Style Me Pretty as a second. It seems to match your cabinets. I feel the white and gold is a little too busy.
    Love following your building updates. I can imagine how excited you are to get moved in! Happy Designing!!

  • I like the Park and Oak best. Interesting yet not formal. I’m very traditional and I can never think “modern” when I’m in Charleston!

  • I like the park and oak as well. While you are not using brick on the exterior, I think the painted brick updates the surround nicely while giving it that traditional low country feel. Something I saw on Candace Olsen A LONG TIME AGO but still haunts me… a pale mother of pearl tile surround. It was clean and classic with a slight nod to the sea, almost like a mermaids tail!

  • Park and Oak caught my eye and flows perfectly with your kitchen. I feel the modern one is not as fitting to the design, maybe too modern?

  • I like the white and gold style and painted the same color of your island. I am so late in commenting, you have probably already decided!! I’ve been so busy I have gotten behind in reading my favorite blogs.

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