We all know that fireplaces like to be the center of attention, acting as the focal point of a space – but what about the mantel? The way that you decide to decorate and shine light on your mantel can have a surprisingly large impact on the room, so it’s important that you don’t overlook this feature.
In fact, mantels play a major role in the overall style of a space. While they originated in medieval times as a purely practical device to catch smoke, today’s mantels often incorporate architectural or decorative elements that make them stand out as a charming and aesthetic choice.
If you’re looking for ways to update your mantel, there are several fireplace mantel trends that design experts swear by. To take your fireplace from simple to show-stopping, here are the top 4 trends in mantel design in 2024.
Rustic Wood Mantel Shelves
One of the best parts about mantels is that they are incredibly versatile and can fit with any design style. For those that love the modern farmhouse or cottage look – which blends a traditional country style with contemporary elements in white or neutral tones – a rustic wooden mantel shelf is a perfect option for your fireplace.
This style of mantel is particularly on trend, as it gives the look of a wooden beam that adds a unique and special detail to any fireplace. Opt for this charming yet rustic whitewash mantel shelf that’s easy for any DIYer to install. Or for a coastal living room, this distressed mantel shelf in a beach sand finish will look great against a white fireplace.
Another fireplace mantel trend is to integrate a natural-looking wooden shelf that will evoke the great outdoors. Naturalistic wooden shelves (like our best-selling Vail Wood Mantel Shelf) offer a truly stunning feature that will breathe new life into any fireplace. Perfectly embodying the “shabby chic” decor trend, this type of mantel will evoke a rustic style and will look great when paired with other wooden features like flooring, furnishings, or lighting.
Natural wooden mantels also pair well with a Scandinavian or minimalist style, offering an elemental feel that will make you immediately think of nature. As sustainable and eco-conscious design techniques are all the rage at the moment, this mantel trend is sure to last well into 2024 and beyond.
Fluted Mantels
Fluting is a big deal in 2024. You'll see this design across many elements. The mantel is the perfect place to add this elegant texture. You'll most often see it on the legs of a full mantel surround, as it is a classic look.
Try the Florence wood mantel is simple yet stunning with a tall aspect and fluting on the legs. It is topped by some trim, a smooth section, then the crown mantelpiece to top it all off. The Real Flame Ashley has fluting on the legs of the mantel that extend up into corbel-like decoration for an elegant finish.
Luxurious Marble Fireplace Mantels
If you’re really looking to make a lasting statement with your mantel, this next trend is for you. Marble fireplace mantels are not only one of the most beautiful ways to frame a fireplace hearth, but they will be an instant design show-stopper in any space. Though marble mantels are definitely more expensive than other types, they are well worth the investment and will become an awe-inspiring, one-of-a-kind staple of your home.
Whether you choose a model that mirrors a French-chateau look like this Provence Marble Fireplace Mantel, or you select a more contemporary model like this Summerford Marble Fireplace Mantel, any marble mantel will add that extra element of luxury to your home that will transform a space from regular to regal.
White Painted Wood Mantels
White mantels offer a fresh take on the wood mantel. You can keep all the ornate carved details or rustic particulars and still have the refreshing aspect that white brings.
A refined mantel shelf with tiered layers that match your crown molding looks good in a coat of satin or high-gloss paint that reflects the light and shows off the detailing of the craftsmanship. Something more rustic like a rough cut or distressed wood mantel you might think needs to remain natural or at most stained. However, whitewashing a rustic mantel helps to further highlight the rustic elements of the mantel.
Now that your updated mantel is more on trend, how will you decorate it for the holiday season? Check out our guide to decorating your mantel for the fall and winter holidays.