Mantel
A mantel, also known as a fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, frames the opening of a fireplace and often covers part of the chimney breast.
It was originally developed in the medieval period for functional purposes, to serve as a hood that would prevent smoke from entering the room, diverting it back into the chimney. Since then it has generally become a decorative component, sometimes performing a function similar to a shelf. As a result of this change, use of the term mantel has expanded to include the jambs, mantel shelf and external accessories of a fireplace.
As fireplaces have become less common in new houses, in favour of modern heating methods, mantels have become less prominent, however, for many centuries they were frequently the most ornamental and artistic feature of the main room of a house. The mantel became the focus of decoration and was an opportunity for a sculptor or artisan to demonstrate their carving/craftwork skill, and for the architect or interior designer to use their creative flair to full effect depending on the style of the interior décor, such as Classic, Renaissance, Italian, French, Victorian, Gothic, and so on.
In England, early-17th century mantelpieces were very simple and followed the Italian style, sometimes only consisting of the mantelpiece with classic architraves and shelf. In the late-17th century the architrave was omitted in favour of more decorative moulding.
In the 18th century, mantelpiece design was more influenced by French styles and became more elaborately decorative, often featuring carved wood.
Mantels can be made from a variety of materials such as marble, limestone, granite, or fine timber. They are often flat on top so that ornaments such as candlesticks, clocks or framed pictures can be arranged on them.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The 5 elements of seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu and shitsuke.
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.