Fireplace Mantel Design Glossary

Discover many fireplace mantel design terms and get a better understanding of the type of styles involved. If you have questions about your fireplace, check out our fireplace mantel shelf FAQs.

Antique Fireplace Mantel: 1) a fireplace mantel from an older generation (e.g. mid century, turn of the century); 2) a mantel piece designed to look like an original mantel from a stated period.

Break Front: the part of a fireplace mantel design where the frieze (e.g. decorative piece across mantel) sticks out in the center of the piece.

Caddy Style: a fireplace mantel design where the mantelpiece has flush edges.

Corbel: an arch or protruding support piece of a fireplace mantel designed to support weight.

Corner Mantelpiece: a mantel shelf designed to accommodate a fireplace positioned in a corner; typical corner fireplaces include electric fireplaces that do not require a flue or ventilation.

Flue: the pipe that leads from your fireplace upward to the top opening. The flue is designed to allow excess hot air and smoke to escape.

Mantel Kit: a do-it-yourself mantel building kit that either shows you how to build your own or includes unfinished pieces that allow for customization.

Patina: a finishing technique used on alloy surfaces such as copper or bronze, or other materials (e.g. wood) that gives the finish an aged look.

Rustic Fireplace Mantel: a fireplace mantel design where the finish of the wood has a rough, untamed appearance. This type of style is popular among wood cabin décor.

Sight Opening: the primary opening in a mantel (also known as the daylight opening).

Lisa Becker is an avid home decorator and writes for Fireplace Mantels 123: Shop For Your Perfect Fireplace Mantel and Surround. Her expertise regarding fireplace mantels and surrounds provides insight into the world of interior design and home decorating. For more articles, visit Fireplace Mantels 123 Articles.